Welcome to the Joe Frawley Tribute Website
A Resource Guide for Geodesic Domes
Joseph Frawley
August 22, 1915 – March 11, 2010
Joe Frawley was a leader in the geodesic dome home movement that gained popularity in the late 1970’s when Buckminster Fuller first introduced the geodesic structure to the world. Joe was intensely passionate about geodesic dome homes and believed that everyone should be able to afford an environmentally sustainable home.
From 1990 through 2002, Joe was a regular columnist for Dome Magazine, a quarterly publication of Hoflin Publishing, Inc. He authored 42 articles in which he shared his passion and knowledge regarding the building of geodesic domes.
Joe’s family is sharing his knowledge in the hopes that his legacy will be carried on by other “round house people”, as Joe liked to refer to dome home owners. We hope that this information will inspire you to explore the possibilities of dome living.
Domology is a collection of articles that highlight not only Joe’s technical knowledge regarding dome structures, but also his passion for geodesics – sometimes sprinkled with his unique political perspective.
These articles include detailed descriptions and drawings of dome building fundamentals that encompass everything from the basics of geodesics to how-do descriptions for erecting permanent wood foundations, insulating and shingling domes and the overall mechanics of dome construction. Also included are practical solutions for addressing potential moisture problems and condensation build-up along with tips on financing and marketing.
Infused throughout these articles is Joe’s passion for the dome structure as an affordable, low-cost, energy efficient home. As a devotee of Buckminster Fuller, Joe’s philosophy reflects the values of independence, conservation and an unending curiosity for how things work. He fervently believed that everyone should be able to afford their own home and that the dome would help people realize that dream.