Roundhouse Cluster

Roundhouse Cluster (click to enlarge)

Specifications: 1,414 sq. ft. interior including lofts, 2 bedroom, 2 bath. Center roundhouse is 24′ interior diameter. Bedroom roundhouses are 16′ interior diameter. Footprint: 31′ x 65′

Description: Readers have shown a strong interest in my domes and roundhouses, so I decided to cluster them to create a new unique design for larger families. This version has three two-story roundhouses. There are a lot of things to like about this design: possible third bedroom, game room or home office in the main roundhouse loft, 2 baths, separated bedrooms, large walk-in closets, dining area next to the windows, and lots of south-facing doors and windows.

Roundhouse Cluster (click to enlarge)

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Triple Roundhouse Cluster

Triple Roundhouse Cluster (click to enlarge)

Specifications: 785 sq. ft. interior, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 28′ x 58′ plus buttresses

Description: This design connects three sloped roof roundhouses and adjoining closets to create a unique roundhouse cluster design that is earth-sheltered on three sides — east, west and north — with a sunny courtyard on the south. The 16′ bedroom roundhouses on either side can be used as bedrooms, home offices, studios, etc. This design features 6′ French doors, and windows high in the wall in each roundhouse, large walk-in closets, high exposed wood ceilings and exceptional energy performance. With the addition of a few features such as ceiling fans, heat recovery ventilation, solar panels and solar hot water heat, this design would meet zero energy standards. Round earthbag structures are inherently stronger than rectilinear designs, and the heavy timber roof provides exceptional strength as well.

Triple Roundhouse Cluster (click to enlarge)

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Cluster Designs

Customers are combining my designs in many new and interesting ways. Most of my designs are intentionally small and simple in order to keep costs low. But some people want larger houses. This can be achieved by clustering domes, roundhouses, hexagons, and adding on pantries, sun rooms, greenhouses, etc. to create a home just the way you like.

Some of these designs are truly unique. Here are three examples:

Earth Lodge Cluster (click to enlarge)

Six Pod Cluster (click to enlarge)

Double Arc House with Pond

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Earthbag Cluster Lodging

Earthbag Cluster Lodging

Specifications: 94 sq. ft. interior per unit, Footprint: 11′ x 13′

Description: These small shelters provide lodging for all types of sustainable communities, including ecovillages, training centers, youth camps, spiritual retreats, eco-resorts, and for refugee and natural disaster relief efforts. The curved shape adds interest and stability, while relatively straight end walls enable units to be joined for maximum efficiency. The design below shows two units joined together. Many other combinations are possible. Note: this plan is now listed in the free shelter category.

Earthbag Cluster Lodging (Double Units)

Earthbag Cluster Lodging (Double Units) South Elevation

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