Day 5 began with fueling up on a hearty breakfast before heading to the construction site. We installed door frames, using lumber to outline the openings. After leveling up the base, we continued stacking layers of earthbags, tamping them into dense blocks.
In our afternoon lesson, Mariana went over best practices for planning structural features like doors and windows within a dome building. We learned rules of thumb for sizing openings and placement to maintain structural integrity. Large openings weaken a dome, so doorways should not exceed 1 meter wide, with the top arch starting at 2 meters high. Windows ideally have an arched top and are 80 cm wide or less. It’s best to offset openings rather than placing them directly across from each other. Doors suit south-facing walls to maximize sunlight and views. Mariana taught us specialized techniques for framing with earthbags, embracing each opening within the circular form.
We applied this knowledge on site, vigilantly measuring as we outlined doorways and built up layers. I was satisfied seeing the form come together after our intensive tamping efforts. The crew worked steadily with momentum.
After our routine 4:30 PM wrap-up, I headed straight for a soothing hot shower, allowing my tired muscles to unwind. During the gratitude circle before dinner, I felt especially grateful for my growing strength and stamina to take on these laborious building tasks. Swabbing the dishes afterwards completed my full day before collapsing into bed, excited to see what arises on day 6!
Let me know if you want any other specifics on the architectural details we’re learning for crafting openings within an earthbag dome.