November 15, 2013

These Beautiful “Place-Hacking” Photos Will Give You an Adrenaline Rush

Afraid of dizzying heights and forbidden spaces? A movement of urban thrill-seekers explores our cities so you don’t have to.

    Photographs by Bradley Garrett

Forth Rail Bridge, Scotland.All photos by Bradley Garrett/eyevine/zReportage/ZUMA Press

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They call themselves “place hackers”—urban adventurers who get a thrill (and bragging rights) from exploring forbidden spaces: old military bases, sewer systems, decommissioned hospitals, power stations—even the odd skyscraper under construction. Just like backpackers, they have an ethical code: no vandalism or theft, take only photographs, leave only footprints. “The idea behind urban exploration is revealing what’s hidden,” explains Bradley Garrett, author of the recent book Explore Everything: Place Hacking the City.  “It’s about going into places that are essentially off limits and, because they are off limits, have been relatively forgotten.” The goal is not just to explore, he adds, but to document and share as well. To wit: Check out these 12 amazing photos from Garrett’s book.

 

Effra Sewer, South London, UK.

Effra Sewer, South London
 

Saint Sulpice Church, Paris
 

King’s Reach Tower, London
 

New Court Building, London
 

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Chicago
 

Legacy Tower, Chicago
 

Temple Court Building, London
 

Legacy Tower, Chicago

 

Lost Kingdom Water Park, Riverside, California

Lost Kingdom Water Park, Riverside, California
 
GLC Pipe Subways, London, UK

GLC Pipe Subways, London
 
Skyscraper Crane, Aldgate East, London, UK

Skyscraper Crane, Aldgate East, London

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You just sent an incredible message: that quality journalism doesn't have to answer to advertisers, billionaires, or hedge funds; that newsrooms can eke out an existence thanks primarily to the generosity of its readers. That's so powerful. Especially during what's been called a "media extinction event" when those looking to make a profit from the news pull back, the Mother Jones community steps in.

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