||||Geodesic Dome

Since there is practically no method in assembling a ball-like shape of a structure out of a single piece of material, man has resorted to various means to achieve the impossible. The geodesic dome, as its name suggest, is such a formation which bears a spherical or partially spherical shape. Viewed from afar, it can resemble a giant golf ball with all the minor grooves intact. Close up, the dome is basically a collection of mini substructures or plates knitted together to form a patchwork netting which seems to stretch over a spherical skeleton. Patterns for these mini plates can range from simple triangular to hexagonal outlines, even to polygonal ones. In a manner of speaking, viewing such a structure may impart a psychedelic effect on one’s senses, challenging the visual awareness to take in the many shapes making up the ball. Many a time, a keen observer may experience a sense of the hypnotic effect as it tempts one to quietly count the number of polygonal shapes covering its surface.

So as not to confuse matters, a geodesic dome does not just imply a ball-like structure. Once labeled as a dome, it infers an enclosed or covered structure. This thus differentiates itself from other like structures which are in their skeletal form. These are normally seen in playgrounds or parks. Although the sphere is considered the strongest structure when constructed in accordance to the law of physics, it cannot acclaim to being the best in the utilization of space. Curved spaces tend to account for the most loss in useful space as it is practically impossible to make good use of said space. In order to fit furniture into such spaces, it would have to be custom built thus increasing the expenditure. Due to many edges created by adjoining parts, they are also subject to leakage if not well constructed. Seepage of water and air can be a cause for concern as it leads to building integrity issues as well as increased expenses due to loss of heat or air-conditioning. As such, these dome-like structures are normally built for commercial purposes such as world expositions, amusement parks, sports arenas and zoological areas. They rarely generate sufficient interest as residential homes largely due to high cost and complexity in construction.

Probably one of the more popular options is setting up geodesic greenhouses which rely on solar power and rain water. In the light of constant bombardment on less than healthy products due to extensive fertilization and insecticide use, organic produce are making waves in the consumer market. Since it is still relatively costly to purchase said products in a commercial sense, many have developed green fingers to nurture their own vegetable gardens. Despite difficulty in making such a structure, it is not considered an impossible task. There are numerous plans and tips available in self-help books and online sites for those up for a challenge. Similar in nature to a barn-raising activity, gather a few friends together to set up the structure and then drape the covering atop. Before long, it can be treated as a community effort as mini geodesic greenhouses spring forth like mushrooms after the rain.