The Hostel Domes have been standing for thirty-three years. Their story begins on an island not so far away, amidst the dream of a young lawyer named Tom Dennard. His preliminary concept involved transforming an old school house into a hostel; however, two prefabricated geodesic domes were selected instead. The domes, based on a design associated with Buckminster Fuller, were ordered from Geodesic Structures of New Jersey.

Construction began during the last weekend in January of ‘75. The crew enthusiastically configured triangular frames, which arrived with cedar shake shingles already affixed. Bolting together the larger dome on day one and the smaller on day two. Several months of designing and detailing the interiors led up to the Hostel’s opening on July 4th of the same year. The larger Dome has been home to countless weary travelers, and gifted artists. Initially, our globetrotting guests stayed in the seven rooms and central dorm area. Once tree houses and additional projects were introduced, the rooms housed the the Hostel staff while the dormitory became the Library.

Unfortunately, in spite of many efforts to extend it’s life, the large Dome became more difficult to maintain and its demolition was inevitable. This took place during the week of January 7th – 14 of 2008. Each and every elements possible was salvaged and will be reused at the Hostel and a new Dome is being constructed in honor of its predecessor. Extreme care was taken in processing all the materials with environmental concerns being foremost in our minds.

Many of us, motivated by unique reasons and love unbound, treasure the Dome and our experiences within that particular space. Whether stimulated by nostalgic associations, design appreciation, or lingering echoes of laughter, you may be interested in contributing to this key transition at the Hostel and we gratefully encourage your involvement with the Dome Revival.

Only one hundred authentic Dome cedar shake shingles from 1975, are being saved and presented, complete with a photograph and descriptive tale, in recycled packaging. With a $100 payment, (plus $5.00 shipping and handling) you will receive a limited edition Dome cedar shingle. Each one will be numbered on the included card. There will only be 100!

Please chose your method of payment below and allow up to 4 weeks for delivery.