The following drawing is of a 32' dome set on a 36" high post and beam kneewall. The awning structure can be used not only in giving window and door protection, but to gap space when adding dome structures together. Two linked structures can provide space for a 2400 square foot 6 bedroom - 4 bath home. revised 7/21/98
The following photo is of a 40 panel 1/2 composite geodesic set on a 3' kneewall. The structure is derived from the structural elements of nature. It's connectors are the epitamy of simplicity. The truss system, consisting of only two types of primary panels, is lightweight, weighing in at about 2200 pounds. The panels averaging about 54 pounds each, without sheathing. The Truss portion of the dome takes about 24 man-hours to erect.
The following photo is of a 32' geodesic with a Peel & Seal roofing being applied. The number of the Peel & Seal manufacturer, mfm, is 1-800-882-ROOF. This particular truss is set on a 3' kneewall. updated 4/6/97
This weathertight structure, including earth work, cost approximately $6000 in materials and bobcat labor. This cost does not include 2nd floor framing or concrete slab. The only interior work reflected in this cost is the cost of the gravel subfloor. I recommend a reflective roof covering to prevent the roof from absorbing energy from the sun and then re-radiating it to the interior of the dome.