How to Build a Geodome for AirBnB

[Daniel Bourdeau]

I recently finished documenting my build and design process for the Geodome I launched last year on AirBnb and wanted to share with the host community - I tried to build one of the most luxury Geodomes on the market, and it wasn't easy!

I couldn't find any quality guides on how to put it all together before I started, so I decided to make this so the next person trying wouldn't also underestimate by 100% :)

Building a geodome as an Airbnb rental can be a fantastic investment, boosting property value and attracting adventurous guests. Its also harder and more expensive than you probably would guess, unless you can do a lot of the work yourself. The total cost for my 27' luxury geodome was around $88,800 (excluding land) and consists of the following step and costs:

1. Zoning considerations
2. Geodome structure and accessories - $8,500
3. Site preparation - $3,000
4. Backfilling - $600
5. Foundation - $3,000
6. Decking material - $12,000
7. Decking labor - $8,000
8. Geodome construction labor - $4,200
9. Flooring - $5,000
10. Electrical wiring and labor - $5,000
11. Interior wood divider - $2,500
12. Hot tub - $13,000
13. Furnishings - $10,000
14. Miscellaneous costs and outdoor shower - $4,000

The total costs for a geodome will range from a bare min of $25k to a max of $100k, depending on size, amenities and other factors like labor and material costs.

Financing options include all cash, incorporating into a new house construction loan, SBA loans, or private money. A well-constructed geodome can rent for $150-$200+/night. I build mine alongside a cabin, so I was able to wrap the cost into the construction loan which converted into a 30 year mortgage. 

I'd love to answer any questions or help in any way if anyone else is interested in building something similar!