Rivers Barden Architects
riversbarden.com

Kevin Barden, AIA; Joe Rivers, AIA

Geodesic Dome Renovation

This home will be available to tour in person on September 27 & 28 and on our virtual tour, available September 27–October 12.

Project Type: Remodel

Sponsors: Andersen Windows & Doors (windows)

Inspired by a Minnesota State Fair exhibit, the architect’s parents built this home during the energy crisis in the 1980s. This remodel gives new life to a unique childhood home in need of a transformation.

While the exterior envelope largely remains the same, the renovation includes a new primary suite, kitchen, and den, and new finishes and cabinetry throughout the home. The new bedroom offers direct views of the surrounding forest, while the new bath features a large skylight next to a freestanding bathtub to give a tree canopy experience with access to the stars at night.

Previously cut off from the rest of the home, the new kitchen provides lines of sight and sound to the living and dining areas. Dark-stained select alder cabinets and trimwork provide a modern cabin atmosphere.

At the top of the dome sits a light-filled office for work and study. The cupola connects inhabitants to the surrounding trees and acts as a sundial throughout the day. Light spills in from above and below, allowing for an airy and distraction-free place to focus.

While the upper levels are open under the geodesic dome roof, the walk-out basement found space for a new private den with large sliding glass doors accessing the woods and gardens to the back of the property.

AIA Framework for Design Excellence: Design for Integration

The restrained material palette of dark-stained select alder and cedar wood in tandem with smooth white walls and ceilings provide a backdrop for enjoyment of the surrounding forest and vegetation, enhancing beauty and delighting occupants.

Opening up the kitchen to the living and dining areas and providing a direct relationship between the primary bedroom and vegetation toward the back of the property offer new opportunities to experience beauty and delight.

The new renovation works with the existing geometry of the geodesic dome to emphasize the central design and performance concept. From a performance perspective, this entails maintaining efficient air circulation throughout the home. From a central design perspective, this entails ensuring all new partitions and walls work seamlessly with the atmosphere and light qualities essential to the home.

The client originally built the home at the height of the energy crisis in the early 1980s. This renovation is an extension of 40 years of living in a specific place for future generations to enjoy the home, connecting it with its place in history and local culture.

What is the AIA Framework for Design Excellence? Learn more »