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DREAM DOME
BUILD YOUR
DREAM DOME
BUILD YOUR
DREAM DOME
BUILD YOUR
DREAM DOME
BUILD YOUR
DREAM DOME
BUILD YOUR
DREAM DOME
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Ever dreamed of building your own geodesic dome but don’t know where to start? The whole process is actually a lot easier than you may think. Sign up for our newsletter & check out our free dome building guide to get started.
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DOMES
Geodesic structures designed for durability, energy efficiency, and unique aesthetics.
Who is Trillium Domes?
Hi, I’m Johnny. After nearly a decade as a professional dome builder, I started Trillium Domes as a way to bring DIY dome building to the world. I know I can’t build a dome for everyone that wants one, so I began sharing what I know to teach people around the world how to make their own. Our team has grown and we have now facilitated hundreds of projects all over the globe from our plans!
Learn the basics
We have honed our designs over many years to perfectly balance beauty, utility, and efficiency.
Download our FREE
Dome Builders
Quickstart Guide
Ever dreamed of building your own geodesic dome but don’t know where to start? The whole process is actually a lot easier than you may think. Sign up for our newsletter & check out our free dome building guide to get started.
Who is Trillium Domes?
Hi, I’m Johnny. After nearly a decade as a professional dome builder, I started Trillium Domes as a way to bring DIY dome building to the world. I know I can’t build a dome for everyone that wants one, so I began sharing what I know to teach people around the world how to make their own. Our team has grown and we have now facilitated hundreds of projects all over the globe from our plans!
Learn the basics
We have honed our designs over many years to
perfectly balance beauty, utility, and efficiency.
Build Your Own Dome
Trillium Domes building plans use the most beautiful and least expensive methods possible, avoiding cumbersome and expensive hubs or specialty hardware.
GET STARTED TODAY
what our customers are saying
Ben Mellen
@ Indianapolis, IN
Followed the plans on this site and built an amazing dome! I use it for woodworking, welding, and getting a moment to myself when I turn all the lights off and enjoy the star ceiling on my personal planetarium!
Truman Shortridge
@ Oregon
Johnny and Trillium Domes could not have been a better guide and resource during my project. Helping to answer every question, all the way to sourcing the polycarbonate panels for me. His wealth of knowledge and experience paired with his generosity and willingness to teach, made this daunting project an absolute joy.
Cecilamor Ares
@ Slovenia
I had never built anything before, and this was my first experience with woodworking. I had plenty of doubts and found myself constantly bugging Johnny 🙂 But he answered all my questions with patience, and in the end, I completed the project—far exceeding even my wildest expectations.
Nick Mansuetti
@ Grass Valley CA
I loved building the zome greenhouse! It challenged me to build outside the box. Thanks to the plans from Trillium Domes, I was able to create something I thought I could only dream up. Johnny was helpful throughout the process and answered any questions I had. By far the most complimented structure I’ve built
Michael Briand
@ Gaspé, Québec
Downloaded the standard 30′ version. I watched the assembly instructional videos about 1000 times as to not write too many emails about questions on how to start and carry out the plan. Trillium was always fast to respond when I did write and really helpful for things I needed some clarification on.
Nick Schwanz
@ Guerneville, CA
So many shapes! We loved putting it together and couldnt be more happy with the result. We’re in love.
Bill
@ St. Johns, AZ
I literally never built another structure before my 20′ Zome. It wasn’t easy, but Johnny helped me every step of the way and it came out amazing.
Sam Sharp
@ Monument, Colorado
I’m a carpenter by trade, with a wood shop, so it was a bit easier for me to plan and construct. It was a LOT of triangles, but assembly was really cool to do. The internal acoustics are fascinating, and it serves as a solid greenhouse with good natural thermal regulation. The aircraft tape wears out after 1-2 years in the sun, so I may chase all the joints with some thin metal. Thanks!
Mick Torrey
@ Kansas
After building it myself, I have to say it would be better done with two or three people. With some extra hands I wouldn’t have kept going inside to tell my wife that Nixon was right about the hippies.
Robyn Campbell
@ Ozarks, USA
We purchased the 40’ dome plans from Trillium Domes for our first dome build. The entire process from beginning to end was extremely structured and easy to understand. Johnny was quick to reply to emails and questions on the Trillium Domes Facebook group. We started the project at the beginning of winter so progress has been a little slower than expected, but the dome is firming in place and has withstood 14” of snow in the last 24 hours. The dome is THE wow-factor on our property. We have referred Trillium Domes’ plans to multiple neighbors and far-away friends who have seen pictures. We can’t wait to try the Zome next! Thank you so much for your plans, support, and encouragement, Johnny!
Adriani
@ Waterloo, Ontario
A pure joy to build from start to finish. The process of cutting all the pieces and building the shapes ahead of time was very good medicine during a hard time. I had zero building experience before taking on this dream.
Keep a positive attitude, dream big, and enjoy the process. I’m currently on my 3rd zone now and fully in love with the process.
Oranstain Brook
@ IHelper Utah
My friends and I had a blast building this dome together and Trillium Domes was so helpful assisting us with questions along the way when we encountered a few hiccups. We customized the design with a stone masonry foundation, reclaimed wood deck, and rainbow glitter paint underneath the skylight. The finished zome has become an iconic art piece in our neighborhood that is always turning heads and making people smile. Numerous guests have expressed that they have benefitted from the healing qualities of the space and what they’ve gained from using it for meditation and contemplation. We’re excited to build another Trillium dome this year!
Ben Mellen
@ Indianapolis, IN
Followed the plans on this site and built an amazing dome! I use it for woodworking, welding, and getting a moment to myself when I turn all the lights off and enjoy the star ceiling on my personal planetarium!
Truman Shortridge
@ Oregon
Johnny and Trillium Domes could not have been a better guide and resource during my project. Helping to answer every question, all the way to sourcing the polycarbonate panels for me. His wealth of knowledge and experience paired with his generosity and willingness to teach, made this daunting project an absolute joy.
Cecilamor Ares
@ Slovenia
I had never built anything before, and this was my first experience with woodworking. I had plenty of doubts and found myself constantly bugging Johnny 🙂 But he answered all my questions with patience, and in the end, I completed the project—far exceeding even my wildest expectations.
Nick Mansuetti
@ Grass Valley CA
I loved building the zome greenhouse! It challenged me to build outside the box. Thanks to the plans from Trillium Domes, I was able to create something I thought I could only dream up. Johnny was helpful throughout the process and answered any questions I had. By far the most complimented structure I’ve built
Michael Briand
@ Gaspé, Québec
Downloaded the standard 30′ version. I watched the assembly instructional videos about 1000 times as to not write too many emails about questions on how to start and carry out the plan. Trillium was always fast to respond when I did write and really helpful for things I needed some clarification on.
Nick Schwanz
@ Guerneville, CA
So many shapes! We loved putting it together and couldnt be more happy with the result. We’re in love.
Bill
@ St. Johns, AZ
I literally never built another structure before my 20′ Zome. It wasn’t easy, but Johnny helped me every step of the way and it came out amazing.
Sam Sharp
@ Monument, Colorado
I’m a carpenter by trade, with a wood shop, so it was a bit easier for me to plan and construct. It was a LOT of triangles, but assembly was really cool to do. The internal acoustics are fascinating, and it serves as a solid greenhouse with good natural thermal regulation. The aircraft tape wears out after 1-2 years in the sun, so I may chase all the joints with some thin metal. Thanks!
Mick Torrey
@ Kansas
After building it myself, I have to say it would be better done with two or three people. With some extra hands I wouldn’t have kept going inside to tell my wife that Nixon was right about the hippies.
Robyn Campbell
@ Ozarks, USA
We purchased the 40’ dome plans from Trillium Domes for our first dome build. The entire process from beginning to end was extremely structured and easy to understand. Johnny was quick to reply to emails and questions on the Trillium Domes Facebook group. We started the project at the beginning of winter so progress has been a little slower than expected, but the dome is firming in place and has withstood 14” of snow in the last 24 hours. The dome is THE wow-factor on our property. We have referred Trillium Domes’ plans to multiple neighbors and far-away friends who have seen pictures. We can’t wait to try the Zome next! Thank you so much for your plans, support, and encouragement, Johnny!
Adriani
@ Waterloo, Ontario
A pure joy to build from start to finish. The process of cutting all the pieces and building the shapes ahead of time was very good medicine during a hard time. I had zero building experience before taking on this dream.
Keep a positive attitude, dream big, and enjoy the process. I’m currently on my 3rd zone now and fully in love with the process.
Oranstain Brook
@ IHelper Utah
My friends and I had a blast building this dome together and Trillium Domes was so helpful assisting us with questions along the way when we encountered a few hiccups. We customized the design with a stone masonry foundation, reclaimed wood deck, and rainbow glitter paint underneath the skylight. The finished zome has become an iconic art piece in our neighborhood that is always turning heads and making people smile. Numerous guests have expressed that they have benefitted from the healing qualities of the space and what they’ve gained from using it for meditation and contemplation. We’re excited to build another Trillium dome this year!
Your builds From our plans
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How much will it cost to build a dome or zome? While the unique design of a geodesic dome can be…
Where you build your dome will influence the cost in a variety of ways. Some areas have higher labor costs,…
You may want to build a dome and wonder – How do I roof and geodesic dome or zome? Choosing…
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Still Have Questions?
First check out our FAQ to see if the answer to your question is already there. If not, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help point you in the right direction
How much will it cost to build a Trillium Dome or Zome?
This is a very common question that comes up early in the planning process! Below is a quick reference but you can find a more in depth look at how much it costs to build a dome or a zome HERE.
There are several key factors that will affect the cost of your dome.
Size of Dome
Site Location
Materials Sourcing
Foundation
Intended use
Types of finish
Cost per Square Foot for a Trillium Dome or Zome
In general, construction costs are averaged into price per square foot. For example, in the USA, the average cost per sq ft for a residential building is roughly $150. That means a 1000 sq ft house (quite small) will on average cost $150,000, including materials, labor, permitting, etc. but excluding land. There are many places in the country where the cost per sq ft is 2 or 3x that rate. In this regard, if you are hiring the job out completely, domes are not much different than any other type of construction.
If you are interested in an owner-built geodesic dome, there are some average costs in materials associated with our projects.
Budget Greenhouse – $5 per sq ft or less
High-end Greenhouse – $25 per sq ft
Dome or Zome Shell (includes roofing, windows, door) – $25 per sq ft
Finished Dome or Zome (includes flooring, interior cladding, insulation and trim) – $50 per sq ft
All out Geodesic Dome and Zome build plans contain full materials lists to help you estimate your costs and find the right size and type of build for you!
Can Trillium Domes and Zomes handle extreme winds / snow?
Yes!
Geodesic Domes and Zomes are inherently excellent at dealing with high winds and snow loads. They are known to be the lightest and strongest structures ever devised by humans. They are not only inherently structurally sound, but are extremely aerodynamic.
Domes with poorly designed hubs or flimsy frame materials, such as pvc or plastic, tend to fold or invert at the joints under pressure. Wood framed domes and zomes are superior and less expensive in their design, and can usually boast a minimum of 200 pounds per sq ft load rating. Zomes are even more resistant to snow because of the steep pitch, very little snow can build up! In a testament to their strength, the Antarctic Research Station at the south pole was a geodesic dome for decades, even after it had passed its estimated service life.
You can read more about why geodesic structures like domes and zomes are a good for for many project HERE
What roofing material should I use for my Trillium Dome or Zome cabin / sauna / community building?
For an insulated dome, there are an incredible amount of options to use for covering your structure. The best one for you depends heavily on your budget and climate. Below is a quick run down for the best Dome and Zome roofing materials – but you can read more in depth info HERE
In rainy areas, I would suggest using a rigid panel material such as aluminum composite material (ACM), fiberglass reinforced panel (FRP) or a traditional roof assembly such as plywood, underlayment and roofing material. Roofing materials can be architectural shingles, aluminum shakes, or metal sheet roofing with flashing. In arid climates, you can get away with an elastomeric coating over plywood.
Elastomeric Coating – This material is a good choice for a budget build in an arid climate. I have found that it is not a good long term solution for domes in rainy areas, as the prolonged moisture will eventually degrade the coating. It is an elastic polymer that can be applied to a plywood roof deck and covered with an outdoor paint. Multiple coats are encouraged, and maintenance is required often. Unless you live in the desert, I would choose another option.
Asphalt Shingles – A relatively inexpensive and effective solution, asphalt is a good choice for most any dome or zome projects. A solid roofing underlayment and proper flashing is crucial to ensure a long lifetime. Architectural shingles are highly recommended.
Aluminum Shakes – My personal favorite, aluminum shakes are incredibly well suited for a geodesic dome or zome roof. Coupled with a high quality Ice and Water Shield underlayment, they create an amazingly long lasting roof with top notch weather resistance. They can be formed in many different patterns for domes and zomes and are flexible enough to bend around facet edges.
Sheet Metal Roofing – Sheet metal roofing is another fantastic option for domes and zomes, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions. Whether you’re facing heavy rain, snow, or high winds, metal roofing provides excellent durability and weather resistance. It’s available in various forms, from corrugated metal sheets to standing seam panels, each offering different aesthetics and performance benefits.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin – TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane that offers excellent performance at a cost-effective price. Heat-welded seams provide superior strength. TPO’s long-term heat, UV, and natural fungal resistance, plus flexibility without need for plasticizers also make TPO a reliable low-slope roofing system.
Marine Grade PVC – Marine-grade PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a highly durable and flexible material commonly used in the boating industry, and it’s an excellent choice for dome and zome roofing in a wide range of climates. This material is designed to withstand harsh outdoor environments, making it resistant to UV rays, moisture, and extreme weather conditions. Its flexibility allows it to be easily fitted over the curved surfaces of a dome, while its strength ensures long-lasting protection.
Other Materials- Aluminum Composite Material (ACM) and Fiberglass Reinforced Panels (FRP) make good surfaces for dome roofs in many cases as well. They come in sheets of different thicknesses and colors. Additional materials include concrete & sealers, wood shakes, lime plaster, cob mixtures, aircrete bricks, and more! Each other these has their own special properties. Their applicability to your project depends mostly on your climate and use of your Trillium Dome or Zome.
What materials should I use to cover a Trillium Dome or Zome Greenhouse?
When building a greenhouse dome or zome, the material you use for the covering is one of the most important factors to consider. It will directly affect the internal environment, including how much light your plants receive, how well the structure insulates, and how durable your dome is against weather conditions – not to mention cost. Below is a quick rundown of the best materials for a dome or zome greenhouse, but you can read a more in depth guide HERE
For greenhouses, from least expensive to most:
String Reinforced and Woven Poly Film – Woven poly film is one of the most affordable options for greenhouse coverings. It’s a translucent material that allows ample light for plant growth, while offering a strong barrier against weather. It’s highly puncture-resistant. You can even affordably add multiple layers (with or without gaps to create insulation) to create a seriously strong and insulated greenhouse for really cheap! Look for sources that are used by industrial growers and farmers.
Marine Grade Vinyl (PVC) – Marine grade vinyl is a durable, mid-range option that offers both flexibility and strength. It’s frequently used in the marine industry due to its ability to withstand harsh weather, and its resistance to punctures and tears makes it ideal for greenhouses. Marine grade vinyl is available in a variety of thicknesses and colors, allowing you to customize your structure. It can be applied to a dome in sections after it is framed or beforehand. By lapping the top seams over the bottom and joining the laps with PVC cement, the cover becomes extremely weatherproof and strong.
Multi Wall Polycarbonate – Multi wall polycarbonate is the gold standard for greenhouse domes and zomes. Its fluted, dual-layer (or more) construction traps air between layers, providing excellent insulation while remaining lightweight and virtually unbreakable. It’s 250 times stronger than glass and offers superior protection against extreme weather, making it perfect for greenhouses in challenging climates.
Solid Clear Polycarbonate – For those who want a luxurious, crystal-clear finish, solid clear polycarbonate is the way to go. It offers unmatched transparency, allowing unobstructed views while still providing the strength and durability that polycarbonate is known for. This material is perfect for greenhouses where maximizing sunlight and visibility is key.
What about glass?- I personally don’t use glass, but it is an option. Regular glass is hard to work with, brittle, and quite frankly dangerous. Tempered glass is an expensive but high quality option. Because it has to be cut and then tempered, that pretty much rules it out for DIY projects. Double glazed type windows would be a good choice for windows in a dome or zome home, but the cost is significant.
Where can I find more detailed information?
⦁ Sign up for our email list to get your free Dome and Zome Builders Quick Start Guide PDF! (On our homepage https://trilliumdomes.com)
⦁ Our Full FAQ (https://trilliumdomes.com/faq-contact/)
⦁ Our Blog (https://trilliumdomes.com/blog/)
⦁ Our Step-By-Step Video Guides (https://www.youtube.com/@trilliumdomes)
⦁ Looking to start your own business building domes and zomes? We can help! Check out our Trillium Domes Builders Collective and get in touch! (https://docs.google.com/document/d/105zpa5uQ5CVQungiD3odMVwjiguR5Q1nsL7On3DRv0Y/edit?usp=sharing)
⦁ Find the Materials and Equipment you need for your project! (https://trilliumdomes.com/equipmentmaterials/)
⦁ Stay updated day to day through our Instagram! (https://www.instagram.com/trilliumdomes)
⦁ Reach out to us about your project via our Contact Page! (https://trilliumdomes.com/faq-contact/)
