With over 550,000 people either displaced or evacuated from their homes as a result of the disasters in Northern japan, the search for shelter is a huge task. One possible answer however is Japan’s innovative Dome House. Able to be constructed in just 3 hours, with the worlds highest resistance to earthquakes, ultra low cost and highly efficient thermal properties make it a perfect solution to the current crisis.
Made form an expanded polystyrene material the weight of each section is extremely lightweight and a fantastic insulator. With the cold weather and purported summer blackouts the fact that the material could cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 50-60% would be a huge bonus. While many suffer in shelters and cramped conditions already, the ability to assemble and erect a town of the igloo shaped structures in a matter of weeks could be hugely beneficial. Along with constant aftershocks and new earthquakes the structures strength would provide comfort to many along with the flame retardant properties.
Darrell is a native of the U.K. and has been in Japan since 2002. He consults on innovation and strategy at the 
But is it tsunami proof as well?
It’ll probably float if that’s what you are asking.
Great idea and nice looking interiors. I wonder if you could get planning permission to build these in the UK? With house prices as high as they are, this could also provide a solution to our housing shortages.
PS: I recommend watching the videos on the manufacturer’s website. The English dubbing is very funny!
I understand what you’re talking about. It’s so bubbly.I mean the dubbing..
But this house is so cute. And it gives off the feeling of security too. I’d like to have one if I can afford it.
Three hours to build? The company website says a week:
ドームハウスの施工はピース組み立てです。
ピース１枚の重量はわずか80kg、作業も簡単で３～４人で約７日間でクレーン無しでも施工可能です。（場所・天候によって異なります）
The Dome House can be built by assembling Dome Pieces. Each Dome Piece weighs only 80kg. Since assembly is quite simple, if performed by 3 or 4 people, it takes approximately 7 days to complete a Dome House.
Their promotional video says it takes three hours. Perhaps that’s the time to get the basic structure?
yes, 3 hours is highly optimistic, and relies on a small (2-3 men) team of skilled assemblers to be achievable. But 3 hours can only be the time to erect a tent structure; installing windows and doors will take extra time, plumbing and electricity extra days of work.