Project

Fly’s Eye Dome

- East Hampton, USA

Buckminster Fuller's Fly’s Eye Dome in East Hampton, a visionary geodesic structure, has succumbed to heavy snow, highlighting its delicate balance between innovation and nature.

Partially collapsed dome structure in snow with trees in the background.

A partially collapsed dome structure covered in snow, surrounded by trees.

Story

Fly’s Eye Dome

A Visionary Structure in East Hampton Buckminster Fuller's Fly’s Eye Dome, located in the serene setting of East Hampton's LongHouse Reserve, innovative design and structural ingenuity. This geodesic dome, characterized by its unique pattern of circular openings, was designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural environment, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional resilience. The dome's collapse under heavy snow underscores the challenges faced by experimental architecture in adapting to unforeseen climatic conditions. Despite this setback, the structure remains a significant example of Fuller's exploration into lightweight, efficient building systems.

Design Highlights

Geodesic design with a pattern of circular openings. Integration with the natural landscape of LongHouse Reserve. Use of lightweight materials to achieve structural efficiency. Emphasis on sustainability and innovative engineering.

Key Facts

Key Aspect Detail
Architect Buckminster Fuller
Location East Hampton, USA
Status Built
Collapse Cause Heavy snow
Material Focus Lightweight structures

Technical summary

Updated 3/7/2026

Finishes

  • Not specified

Materials

  • metal — framework

Construction / Systems

  • geodesic dome: The structure features circular openings and is designed to be lightweight and efficient.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: Not specified
  • Lighting: Not specified

Images

Partially collapsed dome structure in snow with trees in the background.
Collapsed dome structure with metal framework and snow, surrounded by bare trees.
Geodesic dome with circular openings in a grassy area with trees in the background.
Dome structure with circular openings in a grassy area with trees.
Geodesic dome structure with circular openings in a natural setting with trees and blue sky.
Geodesic dome with circular openings on a grassy area, surrounded by trees.
Geodesic dome with circular openings in a snowy landscape, surrounded by trees.

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