Burning Man: Shade Structure Collaboration


Ok, this is what I have found on building a dome, which Nathan and I think is a brilliant idea.

  1. It’s reusable. We can continue to use this for years. And not just for Burns.
  2. It’s sturdy. We saw so many shade structures (including ours) demolished after 2008’s infamous repeat dust storms. Our neighbors had a dome, and we hung out there a lot…it was great.
  3. It’s roomy. Believe me, if you are planning to be out there for the entire week (recommended), it is nice to have some “space”. You will feel more “at home” and relaxed.

Lots more reasons, but those are some of the big ones.

Alright, points to debate:

  • What are we going to cover it with? I have some links below that outline the pros and cons of parachutes, tarps, canvas, etc. The advice from people who have “gone before” is invaluable.
  • How big do we want it to be? There are some links below to dome design software, formula calculators, etc.

Links:

1. Geodesic Math and How To Use It

  • A nifty book we could possibly check out.

2. Desert Dome Calculator

  • This is a great site. The 3V seems attractive, but the 2V would definately take fewer resources.

3. Step By Step How-To

  • This guy has an interesting idea of “welding” plastic together.

4. Step By Step How-To

  • I like the size of this one, it seems perfect for us. What do you think?

5. Source Forge - Dome Software

  • Nice!

6. General Tips About Shade

  • This is good stuff. Also, hilarious sketch of the “tarp off the side of the car” that we like to rock when we forget to bring our tent to Big Bend!!

7. The Tribe - Dome Info

  • Tribe is the place to get first hand info from other Burners.

8. Covers - Pros & Cons

  • Very good points. I really don’t know what to use.

9. Another Step By Step

10. Really Good Idea For Cover

  • What do you think?

(P.S. I just dated this post as my very first one, because I don’t know how to make it not show up as regular content but still let you guys see it!)


3 Comments, Comment or Ping

  1. Geodesic Dome Tent Construction Instructions

    January 10th, 2009

  2. WOOO!! Great info on domes. Car Ports are another easy alternative.

    February 6th, 2009

  3. Thank you! I am so excited to have a “real” shade structure. Last year we took the “tarp off the side of the car” approach. Needless to say, it looked good until about noon on Monday :D

    February 6th, 2009

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