Yep, a geodesic dome. You can read the 'Why' of it here, if you're interested -- but we feel it was the right call, for a variety of reasons.

The dome is a fully functioning house; with more than 2400 square feet of livable space covering three and a half floors [more on that in a moment], there are three bedrooms, three full baths, a complete kitchen, lofted office space, a fitted shop area including a power room and full laundry facilities.

The ceiling for the main floor is more than vaulted, with the main ceiling lifting over 30 feet and capped by a lofted cupola with 360° views and two large skylights. The main floor is also appointed with a stone fireplace, south-facing bay windows and a breakfast bar opening into the kitchen and french doors opening onto the back patio, making it a true living space. The three upper stories are floored in wood with the exception of the plumbed areas and the pantry; the downstairs is a combination of tile and sealed concrete. It should also be mentioned that the dome has recently been completely redone -- new paint, the wood sanded and finished, and more.

Most of the major appliances are propane powered, and draw off the generator's underground supply; for convenience, the house itself is wired for both 12 volt DC and 110/120 volt AC and powered by a green combination of solar, wind and direct generation. [You can read more about the power systems here.] Although there is a fully functional furnace rated for the space, it has rarely been used; ambient heat from the fireplace and the natural convection characteristics of the dome itself are usually more than sufficient for a barefoot environment. Water is provided from an on-site well drilled deep into the permanent table.

The dome is situated on a small saddlepoint overlooking the primary road with a wraparound drive. The shell is situated on riser walls and the foundation is directly in the bedrock, providing an exceptionally strong and stable environment. The dome shell was designed and fabricated by the wonderful folks at Oregon Dome.

All the accouterments aside, it's one of the most beautiful and relaxing places to have breakfast in the mountains; you'll take the time to have that third cup of coffee.