Back to the future in Tatsfield: rare geodesic dome house in one of Kent's quaintest country villages is for sale
The unusual four-bedroom house, known as The Dome, was built in 1986 and its bold modern architecture provides a striking contrast with the quaint North Downs enclave's village pond and WI Hall.
Residential domes are relatively unusual because of the cost and difficulty of construction, making this property a rare find.
The home’s innovative design is centred around an open-plan living area, which leads to the kitchen and dining room, topped by the extraordinary wood lined-dome.
Inside the atrium ceiling is dotted with triangular windows flooding the living area below with light.
SOLID FOUNDATIONS
Geodesic domes are hemispherical structures composed of rigid triangular elements, which press against each other, meaning they can withstand very heavy loads for their size.
The first geodesic dome was built for a German planetarium shortly after World War I but the structures are most commonly associated with mid-century American architect Buckminster Fuller, who invented the term to describe them and patented the concept in 1956.
Similar notable structures include the aviary at Queens Zoo, New York, which was originally a pavilion at the 1964 World’s Fair; a dome at the South Pole, chosen because it can resist snow and wind loads; and Spaceship Earth at the EPCOT Centre in Disney World, which is also included in the park’s logo.
Due to its striking layout, The Dome house in Kent has a minstrel’s gallery on the first floor overlooking the central space, which leads via a vaulted landing to the master bedroom suite, with dressing room (which can also be used as a fourth bedroom). Two further bedrooms are also on this floor.
There's also an outdoor swimming pool in its half-acre garden.
The property, which is close to the M25 and 35 minutes from London Bridge or Victoria by train, has been listed for sale with Fine & Country estate agents for £1 million.
