zome

A zome is a type of dwelling that resembles a dome but is often more complex in its geometry. The term "zome" was coined by Steve Baer and his wife Nancy Baer in the late 1960s and early 1970s. They developed and built these structures, drawing inspiration from Buckminster Fuller's geodesic domes and the work of architect James Wines.

Zomes are characterized by their unusual, often irregular shapes, which are typically composed of numerous triangular facets. Unlike a perfect dome, a zome's intersecting planes can create a more dynamic and organic form. This design allows for a variety of interior spaces and can be adapted to different terrains and functional needs. The construction often involves a complex framework of wood or metal, with panels filling in the triangular sections.

Steve Baer, a pioneer in solar energy and alternative architecture, experimented extensively with zome design. He sought to create structures that were both aesthetically unique and highly efficient, particularly in terms of solar gain and thermal mass. Zomes have been built in various locations, often associated with sustainable living and experimental architecture movements. The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "dome" with the geometric concept of a "zone."