The Artistic Appeal of Mirrored Domes

Picture it: you’re walking through a green area or festival grounds. In the distance, you see a mirrored, rounded structure reflecting the scenic nature around it. You may have just encountered a mirrored dome.

As the name suggests, a mirrored dome is a dome-like structure with full dome mirrors surrounding its exterior. This unique construction method is typically used in art installations. For example, American artist Doug Aitken sank three mirrored domes into a seabed near California’s Catalina to call attention to America’s deteriorating oceans. The Burning Man festival featured ORB by Bjarke Ingels and Jakob Lange. However, mirrored domes also double as unusual luxury homes and camping units.

Mirrored domes make waves (and reflections) wherever they go. If you are considering purchasing mirrored domes, contact Dome Spaces. We specialize in custom domes that can meet various design needs.

What are Mirrored Domes?

Mirrored domes typically feature a spherical or geodesic framework, often constructed with PVC pipes, steel, and aluminum struts for optimal adaptability. The frame is covered by a reflective material such as:

Glass Mirrors: Glass mirrors may be the most reflective and visually stunning option, but their lack of flexibility makes them challenging to work with. They are also easily damaged and may not make the best safety dome mirror.

Polished Metal: Polished metal is achieved by using abrasive materials on tools to smooth metal surfaces. The metal is often thin and malleable, making it ideal for construction.

Reflective Film: Reflective film can also be called a one-way mirror. It may be the best dome mirror option because it reduces heat and UV radiation while working well for construction and producing the desired aesthetic.

A mirror dome can be constructed in various shapes, including:

Geodesic: A geodesic dome is built from a network of triangles, hexagons, and pentagons combined to create a sphere.

Semi-Spherical: A semi-spherical dome is shaped into a half circle and can comprise various materials and construction components.

Custom Shapes: While domes are typically rounded as half dome mirrors, they don’t have to be. They can be square or rectangular, have built-in skylights, or feature a somewhat convex shape. Dome Spaces will work with you on a dome shape that challenges the imagination.

Benefits and Advantages of Mirrored Domes

Aesthetic Appeal: The stunning design of mirror domes makes them popular for art installations. They make an unforgettable visual impact, reflect light and natural surroundings, and provide an immersive experience.

Architectural Significance: Mirrored domes can enhance the architectural design of homes, camping units, and other structures. The dome can be a standalone design, or it can be integrated with other architectural elements.

Unique Event Spaces: Talk about an unforgettable party! Hosting an event in a mirrored dome guarantees it will be embedded in your guests’ memories for years. They will return to each event to find out what you have in store.

Environmental Integration: When you install a mirrored dome, you never have to worry about it not fitting into your background settings. It reflects and enhances the nature around it, ensuring an ideal aesthetic.  

Potential Energy Efficiency: The reflective surface of a mirrored dome minimizes heat and UV radiation absorption. It could reduce energy bills and boost conservation in hot climates.

Applications of Mirrored Domes

Art Installations: Mirrored domes are often incorporated in art installations. We previously mentioned their presence at Burning Man and in Doug Aitken’s underwater display. They were also employed in Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms and Talus Dome, an art installation along White Mud Drive in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.  

Event Spaces: Domes often double as homes or camping units. While a mirrored dome is not the most practical choice, some people prefer them for their heat and UV radiation resistance and stunning architectural design.

Residential Architecture: Many people live in domes because they are cost-effective, sustainable, and adaptable to weather events. A mirrored dome is a practical choice because its reflective surface offers advanced energy efficiency and stunning aesthetics.

Commercial Domes: Businesses might choose a mirrored dome for exhibitions, pop-up events, or as an everyday retail space. It offers the same benefits as residential applications, including durability and energy efficiency. Its unforgettable design is also a great branding tool.

Agricultural Domes: Domes are often used for agricultural purposes as they offer a climate-controlled environment and may extend the growing season.  A mirrored dome’s ability to block out light and heat makes it an energy-efficient choice and reduces the risk of damaging plants with excessive temperatures.

Design and Construction Considerations

Structural Integrity: Part of a dome’s appeal is its strength. The low, rounded structure makes it resistant to high winds. Structures are also often rated for snow and water loads. Find out about a dome’s construction and purchase from a reliable provider to ensure structural integrity.

Material Selection: Domes are often made of sturdy yet lightweight materials optimized for adaptability. The mirrored elements include a glass mirror, polished metal, or reflective film. Reflective film is typically preferred because it is malleable and easy to work with.

Lighting and Acoustics: Lighting and acoustics can be customized to your needs. You may decide to install a skylight and windows in your dome to optimize natural light, or devise an artificial lighting scheme. Regarding acoustics, if your dome is too echoey, consider adding insulation, which also aids energy efficiency.

Environmental Factors: A dome offers a unique outdoor-meets-indoor living situation. As such, the environment is always a factor. However, if you purchase a dome with a structural integrity that meets your climate-related needs, it will hold up well in various environments with minimal maintenance and repairs.·  Customization: Many dome providers offer various customization options. For example, Dome Spaces offers various window and door designs and color choices. You can also have extras installed like modular bathrooms, kitchens, skylights, flooring, and more.

Cost and Installation

Dome prices vary wildly depending on size, materials, and design complexity. However, here are some price points to consider based on internet listings. 

4M: $3,666

6M: $8400 – $9500

7M tent: $11,200

Installation can also add to costs. The amount you pay depends on what’s involved. Here are some possible factors.

Site Preparation: Domes must typically be installed on flat ground, which may need to be leveled.

Assembly: Next, you must assemble the dome. Some domes can be self-assembled, but you may need to call in a professional if the design is complex.

Finishing: Finishing can include adding insulation, weatherproofing, and installing customized features.

Determining the cost of dome installation in the early stages can be challenging. Dome Spaces provides free quotes and consultations so you know what to expect. Contact us to learn more.

Mirrored Domes vs. Other Dome Types

There are various dome types to choose from, but the most popular options include:

• Mirrored: Mirrored domes feature a solid construction and are covered by a reflective material. They stand out for their unique aesthetics and energy efficiency. Domes and mirrors are often combined for art installations. 
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass domes are similar to mirrored domes but are covered by fiberglass, a strong, lightweight composite material made of glass fibers and resin. They are a more practical dome choice and typically less expensive than mirrored domes. Though not as visually stunning, they can be customized to your preferences. 
• Geodesic: Geodesic refers to the dome’s underlying structure, comprised of various geometric shapes. Characteristics vary depending on the underlying material. 
• Bubble: Bubble domes are inflatable. Due to their portable nature, they are typically used for camping purposes or pop-up events. As temporary structures, they are less expensive and have a more casual appearance. 

Mirrored Domes by Dome Spaces

Dome Spaces offers unique mirrored domes that include the following features: 

• Highly durable alloy frames
• Customized glass colors
• E-insulated, tinted, double laminated glass

Like all our domes, our mirrored selection can be customized. You can choose from: 

• Various interior dome colors
• Multiple window shapes and materials
• Entry door options
• Solar fans
• Skylights
• Stove pipe exterior mounts
• Curtain set options
• Dome lining
• Wood-burning stoves
• Modular bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen options
• Dome flooring
• Insulation
• Size specifications

Several reputable publications have recognized Dome Spaces, which has grown steadily throughout the years.  We have gotten a largely positive response from the public. Our products stand out for their quality and durability. 

FAQs

How Much Do Mirrored Domes Cost?

The price of mirrored domes varies depending on the size, design complexity, materials used, and installation needs. However, prices generally start at $3500 and can go up to $12,000. 

What Materials are Used?

A dome’s structure is typically made of sturdy yet lightweight materials like aluminum, steel, and PVC. Dome mirrors may be made of mirrored glass, polished metal, or a reflective film. 

Are Mirrored Domes Weather Resistant?

Mirrored domes are often located outdoors and are designed for weather resistance. However, domes made of mirrored glass may be difficult to protect. Polished metal or a protective film may be a better option for domes in outdoor areas. 

Can They Be Used for Residential Purposes?

Yes, mirror domes are often used for residential purposes due to their attractive looks and exceptional energy efficiency.

Writer : Marissa Kunis