build your own bamboo dome-like structure with giant grass's zome building kit

‘zome building kit’ by giant grass functions like a lego or meccano set but on a bigger scale and can be used on multiple cases generating a bamboo dome-like structure. the kit can serve as a hangout space for children in the backyard, a chill-out place to entertain guests, a greenhouse for seedlings, a creative space in the office, a quiet space for yoga at home, a shady cabana next to the pool, or a tranquil glamping tent. furthermore, the project provides a perfect solution for groups of people who are passionate about sustainability, hands-on learning, and geometry, promoting teamwork while having fun.
start building the zome by laying out the base on the ground and connecting the strips with nuts and bolts
all images courtesy of giant grass

the kit comes with all necessary accessories including 350 precision-made bamboo strips, nuts, bolts, and an installation guide to create a 3m x 3m construction. the key challenge for giant grass was to scale their participatory design and building process and make it more accessible and affordable allowing more people to experience the joy of building together. zome is a different geometric shape than a dome, however, they both are lightweight structures and follow similar design principles as symmetry, proportions, and triangulations. from a spatial perspective, a zome creates a much more useable space compared to a dome; a 3m diameter dome spans 1.5m in the center whereas, a 3m diameter zome around 2.8m.
attaching the strips with bolts and nuts is quick and easy without the need for special tools

the structure is very easy to build without special tools or construction experience while it can be assembled in 2-3hrs and dismantled in 3omin. meanwhile, if some pieces break, they could be easily replaced without compromising the entire structure. the bamboo strips are covered with UV-resistant coating and will grey over time like timber unless they get covered with oil, then they are able to retain the yellow look.
finished zome frame in the backyard

furthermore, the kit can be used as a pop-up space or a permanent structure. the entire construction weighs less than 35kg and is easy to move around by two people. even after the structure is assembled, it is easy to relocate as all the parts come in a box 70 x 30 x 30cm in size. the strips are made from bamboo, and thanks to their high tensile strength, allow the strips to slightly bend without breaking. additionally, the structure is designed for many purposes and will create a sense of pride and ownership, empowering people to shape their own environments.
zome creates a perfect space for a small bamboo model building workshop or discussion

admiring the geometric beauty of the zome at night
fairy lights on the zome frame makes for lovely outdoor space under clear sky
zome under a starry night glowing like a lantern

creepers growing on the zome frame provide shade in a community garden
zome with lycra covering makes for perfect poolside shelters providing shade private cabana type spaces

zomes can be used inside the office as meeting pods — they can be covered with lycra, canvas or acrylic depending on the amount of privacy needed

the zome is 3m in diameter and 2.8m tall

same diameter zome is much taller than a geodesic dome providing more usable space

project info:

name: zome building kit

designers: giant grass

design team: munir vahanvati and mittul vahanvati

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina petridou | designboom