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Dome structures have a long history as architectural features in building design, from ancient times to sophisticated modern homes. Domes have many uses in modern-day design, including sports stadiums, single-family homes, and religious structures. Domes come in many styles and can be made with a variety of materials, from steel, glass, brick, and concrete, to more lightweight or temporary materials, such as fabric and plastic. The Geodesic dome, invented by Buckminster Fuller in the 1950s, is one of the strongest dome structures. Although it was never widely adopted for housing, it still influences modern-day dome architecture.
Elements of design:
- Used throughout history as an architectural element
- Large internal footprint with no internal structures
- Spherical in shape with open interior
- Made from a wide variety of materials
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