Imagine a town where every resident sleeps, works, shops, and socializes under one roof. These self-contained communities, often built for extreme climates or remote locations, offer a unique look into a world where an entire town functions within a single structure. Whether you’re a curious traveler or someone fascinated by alternative ways of living, visiting these places can be an eye-opening experience.
Why Do These Places Exist?
Cities and towns where everyone lives in one building are rare, but they exist for various reasons. Some were designed for practicality in extreme conditions, like Arctic climates, while others originated as housing for workers in remote industries. Their compact nature fosters tight-knit communities but also presents unique challenges for daily life.
Famous One-Building Communities Around the World
1. Whittier, Alaska, USA
Whittier is perhaps the most famous example of a one-building town. The majority of its residents live in the 14-story Begich Towers, a Cold War-era building that houses apartments, a grocery store, a post office, a school, and even a church. Because of Alaska’s harsh winters and heavy snowfall, many residents can go about their daily lives without ever stepping outside. Visitors can take a ferry or drive through a long one-lane tunnel to reach the town.
2. Consonno, Italy (Abandoned But Intriguing)
While not currently inhabited, Consonno was once a self-contained town in a single grand building. Originally planned as an entertainment and shopping hub, it fell into decline after a landslide cut off access. Though abandoned today, urban explorers still visit to see what remains of this ambitious project.
3. Wittenoom, Australia (Now a Ghost Town)
Originally a mining settlement, Wittenoom once housed its entire workforce in a massive structure. When asbestos mining ceased, the town was abandoned, but it remains an eerie example of how an entire population can exist within a confined space.
What It’s Like to Visit One of These Places
Visiting a one-building town can feel surreal. Unlike sprawling cities or traditional towns, everything is stacked vertically or within a single structure. You may notice:
- A strong sense of community – With everyone living so close together, residents often know each other well.
- Self-sufficiency – Many of these buildings contain everything people need for daily life, reducing the need to travel far for essentials.
- Challenges of isolation – Some places, especially those in harsh climates, have limited access to the outside world, leading to unique lifestyles and challenges.
How to Visit a One-Building Community
If you’re interested in experiencing one of these places firsthand, here’s how to plan your visit:
- Research Access – Some places, like Whittier, have established tourism opportunities, while others may be more challenging to reach.
- Respect Local Norms – Since these communities are tight-knit, be mindful of residents’ privacy and avoid disrupting daily life.
- Prepare for Unique Conditions – Whether it’s extreme weather or a lack of modern infrastructure, visiting these places often requires extra preparation.
Self-contained communities where an entire population lives in one building challenge our traditional ideas of what a town should be. Whether shaped by necessity or design, they provide a fascinating look at how humans adapt to their environments. If you get the chance to visit one, take the opportunity to see firsthand how these unique communities function.
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