Our affinity for concrete domes knows no bounds. They’re efficient, strong, and durable, more than any other structure on earth. But they can also be beautiful, elegant, and flexible. The versatility of luxury dome home designs is proof of these qualities.
What Makes a Luxury Dome Home Design?
While a dome home can be designed in any way you can imagine, luxury dome homes go beyond the expectations of most homes. They’re bigger, they’re more unique, and their interiors make every day a vacation.
There are no parameters otherwise, so luxury dome homes often include pools, vast outdoor spaces, multiple connected domes, and expansive bedrooms and living spaces. The variations from one dome to another make it clear that the sky is the limit.
5 Iconic Luxury Dome Homes
We’ve highlighted five of the most iconic and luxurious dome homes around the US, each offering a unique take on the classic concrete dome. Some are even open to the public, so you could experience a dome home for yourself on your next vacation.
The Eye of the Storm (Sullivan’s Island, SC)
Perhaps the most iconic luxury dome home design in the world, the Eye of the Storm was born out of love and a desire for ultimate safety. In 1989, the designer’s parents lost their home to Hurricane Hugo. So, in 1991, George Paul started construction on the dome home that would become the permanent home for his parents.
Today, it still stands as a testament to the beauty possible for dome homes, as well as their strength, safety, and security. It’s been the inspiration for countless other domes (including more than one on this list), and its proximity to the ocean makes it a highly desirable piece of real estate, even with its unique styling.
The Sedona Domes (Sedona, AZ)
If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a dome home, here’s your opportunity. This unique multi-dome vacation home gives you plenty of common space, beautiful outdoor seating, and the full experience of a true luxury dome home design.
Originally built in the 1970s, the Sedona Domes have since been updated to accommodate a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom AirBnB rental that’s comparable to most hotels. The reviews are sparkling, and the price is right!
The Disappearing Dome (Manitowoc, WI)
The first dome in Wisconsin, overlooking Lake Michigan, is a massive 3-story luxury dome home design inspired by a house built in the round that the owners stayed in while vacationing in Mexico. The Disappearing Dome sits on top of a cliff, so on sunny days you can’t miss it. But on foggy days, it earns its name when the Lake Michigan fog blankets the white dome until it nearly vanishes.
The 55-foot diameter home boasts 4,000 square feet of living space, with the lowest level housing two garages and a 1,500-square-foot housekeeper’s apartment. Inspired by a visit to the Eye of the Storm, the original builders decided that a dome home was the perfect choice for their dream home. And with spacious bedrooms, closets, and living spaces that provide stunning views of the lake, the Disappearing Dome is most definitely a dream home.
Dome of a Home (Pensacola, FL)
The panhandle of Florida is no stranger to powerful storms. In both 2004 and 2005, Pensacola was hit by Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis. But even the 200-mile-per-hour winds couldn’t destroy this beautiful dome. In fact, it served as a shelter for NBC news crews during their coverage of Hurricane Ivan.
The original builders, also inspired by the beauty of the Eye of the Storm, worked with their local government and FEMA to fund the construction of the Dome of a Home, and they then offered it as a rental so others could truly experience dome home living. With 3,202 square feet that includes 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this luxury dome home offers ample gathering space, opulent bedrooms, and a pool with a refreshment station. The beachside view tops off the beauty of this home.
Today, the home is privately owned, but it’s still a magnificent sight for passersby.
The Centennial Residence (Centennial, Colorado)
In the southeast corner of Denver you’ll find a monument to modern design in the Centennial Residence. This dome home design came to life in 1982 from the vision of Chris Barnes, a former aeronautical engineer. Its 30-foot-high center and 60-foot diameter provides over 4,500 square feet of living space, along with a 3-car garage and dramatic covered entryway.
Barnes wanted to showcase the efficiency, safety, and beauty of concrete domes through this impressive home. The residence includes an indoor saltwater pool and hot tub, along with sweeping curves and modern touches. The center of the dome includes a long, curved staircase to the second floor, where the 3 bedrooms are found.
The interior is filled with natural light, and the planters throughout provide beautiful foliage to complement the clean, modern look. With the concrete walls, the temperature stays within a 6-degree range over 24 hours, even in the cold Colorado winters. From top to bottom, this luxury dome home design shows how far a concrete dome can be stretched to create sleek and functional space for a family.
Ready to Dream Big?
These luxury dome home designs don’t just have to be someone else’s dream. You could build your own everyday getaway with the help of KingDome Builders. We want to work with you to take your lake property, homestead, or suburban oasis to the next level. Contact us today to tour our own mini dome home and start planning the dome home you never knew you needed!
