Sigler Residence, Pensacola, Florida
Architect Jonathan Zimmerman claims his dome design is hurricane proof. The dome homes are air-formed thin shell concrete structures which are very similar to geodesic domes.
Don’t believe it? Well, the test came September 14, 2004. The Sigler Residence above survived Hurricane Ivan unscathed.
Here is the happy owner the day after. (photo: Pensacola News Journal)
So what makes Mr. Zimmerman’s domes different. Ballons! You don’t say.
“The San Francisco architect uses balloons of fiberglass reinforced nylon or other fabrics to form his sturdy, energy-efficient structures.
After the balloon is inflated, the inside surface is sprayed with rigid polyurethane foam insulation. Steel reinforcing bars are then tied into place against the insulation, and concrete is sprayed to cover the steel. Door and window openings are created by leaving out the steel reinforcements and concrete and cutting away the insulation. Later, the balloon can be coated with the desired color or texture, and earth can be bermed against the structure.” [Mariette DeChristina for Popular Science Magazine]
Zimmerman is building one of his domes in Alaska where he says it will survive an avalanche. So I guess it’s not so crazy to live in disaster prone areas if you’re prepared. Necessity is the mother of invention Frank.
Bismark Residence, Estes Park, Colorado
WOW NICE HOME