Historic preservation
A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.
Geodesic domes
A geodesic design uses interconnected triangles to create a strong, environmentally friendly structure.
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
Roof and attic
Your roof and attic play the most crucial role in your home's energy efficiency system, reducing your energy costs during the winter and summer.
Turning a barn into an energy-smart home
Modular homes
Modular homes are built in a factory under controlled conditions, then shipped to the homesite and placed on a permanent foundation.
Aging in place
Air quality and ventilation in new homes
New, energy-efficient homes need new solutions to circulate and ventilate the air inside the home.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is an organization that provides simple, sturdy homes. Learn how energy efficiency is a key factor in building these homes.
Insulated concrete forms
An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.
