Petr Jandacek as Buckminster Fuller outside his dome. Courtesy/jandacek.com

LASE News:

Los Alamos Sustainable Energy Network (LASE Network) will sponsor a potluck picnic and tour of Petr and Louise Jandacek’s geodesic dome home at 127 La Senda Road in White Rock 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 16.

The study of non-traditional architecture and environmental optimal design led the Jandaceks to decide upon Buckminster Fuller’s geodesic dome when making plans to build their home in Los Alamos. It was a natural choice for a minimum surface area for maximum inside volume, Petr wrote on his website. The dome was constructed on top of six-foot concrete block risers giving the house two stories.

The lower level includes four bedrooms, an art studio, two bathrooms and a utility room. The staircase to the upstairs is located in the attached solarium, constructed out of native stone. The upper level includes open common rooms, so as not to destroy the geodesic ceiling.

The solarium, being two stories high, includes many large tropical trees and a jungle like environment. The passive solar design provides heat in the winter and cheerful lighting throughout the year. More than 30 stained glass windows and other art items are a natural complement.