Some call it a "dome home," but the technical term is a geodesic dome.

How it works

A geodesic design uses triangles to create a super-strong sphere structure. The shape encloses the most amount of space with the least amount of materials, making these homes very economical and earth-friendly.

The most famous geodesic dome in the world is "Spaceship Earth" at Walt Disney World's Epcot theme park.

Benefits

The freestanding dome shape allows tremendous flexibility in the placement of walls and the size and shape of rooms. Nooks and crannies can be used for storage and play space.

The high open ceiling provides great ventilation and bright sunlight all day long. In the summer, warm air rises along the curved walls and escapes through windows in the top of the dome, providing natural air conditioning.

More from this category

Decoding building requirements

house blueprints

Learn about some of the changes for new homes built today. An expert highlights some of the things to consider when building a new home.

learn more

Historic preservation

Boy and grandmother on front porch

A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.

learn more

Air quality and ventilation in new homes

Man showing ductwork to Pete and Megan

New, energy-efficient homes need new solutions to circulate and ventilate the air inside the home.

learn more

Building an energy-smart house

Pete and Megan talking with homeowners

Hear from real homeowners and builders who made energy efficiency a priority.

learn more

 

Green home construction

Building materials, blueprints and paint chips

More builders are offering sustainable choices in new home construction. Find out what's available and how it impacts the earth and the bottom line.

learn more

Talk to your utilities

Utility worker with an electric meter

Before you break ground on a new house, give your utility companies a call. They can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and construction delays.

learn more

Net Zero Community

Two people walking into a new home

Check out a new neighborhood concept and see how one builder is changing the way homes are built with a goal to use zero energy.

LEARN MORE

Energy efficient kitchen remodel

Pete and couple standing in remodeled kitchen

This kitchen remodel features a new window, energy-efficient lighting, new appliances and side-wall insulation.

learn more

Turning a barn into an energy-smart home

Megan standing in front of the barn home

A century-old barn gets the ultimate makeover - with lots of energy-smart technology.

learn more