Circular homes have been around for a really long time since way back in the Bronze Age, which was about 3300 BC. These homes were tough and could handle bad weather and strong winds better than other shapes.
Plus, they were easier to keep warm in cold weather. Because they were round, builders didn’t need as many materials to make them. At first, they were small, but as more people lived together in settlements, they got bigger.
“During the Roman Empire era, circular homes were constructed using locally available materials such as wood or stone. These houses typically had walls crafted from clay, timber, or sturdy stone, reflecting the resources found in the surrounding area.”
Let’s take a look at some circular homes from different parts of the world.
What is a Circular Homes Called?
A Circular homes is also called a rotunda, which comes from a Latin word meaning round. Long ago, people in the Bronze Age built circular homes called roundhouses.
There are also other kinds of traditional circular homes, like Mongolian yurts and North American teepees, but these were made to be easy to move around. Igloos and round mud huts are some other examples of traditional Circular homes.
Can you Live in a Circular Homes?
Living in a circular home can be both more satisfying and a bit harder than living in a regular-shaped house. Circular homes tend to be brighter and quieter than rectangular ones. They’re also easier to keep warm, which means you use less energy.
In some places, circular homes are better at standing up to hurricanes and earthquakes. But, because they’re round, some furniture might not fit well, and getting custom furniture can cost more.
Are Circular Homes More Expensive to Build?
Constructing circular homes may involve more complex techniques due to their unconventional wall curvature, but they actually cost less to build compared to rectangular buildings.
This is because circular houses require fewer materials for the same amount of space. Additionally, circular homes have the added benefits of needing less insulation and consuming less energy.
What’s the Reason for Building a Circular Home?
Circular homes have many benefits beyond just looking nice. They help save energy by heating and cooling more effectively, which means you’ll spend less on energy bills.
They’re also better at standing up to natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes compared to other shapes. Plus, their rounded shape provides better views and makes you feel more connected to nature.
6 Circular Homes Around the World
Here are 6 circular homes around the world:
1: Sky Vessel Circular Homes
- Location: Fukuoka, Japan
This house, made by a Japanese company called NKS2 Architects, is like a modern version of the Tulou Homes. But instead of protecting people from enemies, it helps them stay away from noise and other bothersome things in a crowded area. All the windows are on the inside and look out into a central garden, giving lots of privacy.
2: Tulou Circular Homes
- Location: Fujian, China
Tulou homes were built long ago, from the 15th to the 20th centuries. They were like fortresses, made of strong earth walls facing inwards. Each home was big enough for a whole family or even a whole clan. People called them “a little kingdom for the family” or “a busy small city.
“Now known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these homes are praised by the organization for being outstanding examples of how people lived together and defended themselves. UNESCO also says they fit really well into their surroundings, showing how humans can live in harmony with nature.”
3: Aso Farm Land Circular Homes
- Location: Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan
In Japan’s Kumamoto prefecture, there are more than 400 circular dome houses close to a volcano. They were built as places for people to stay overnight when they visit a nearby theme park.
These houses are made of a material called polystyrene foam and lots of them are painted to look like different animals and sweets.
In 2016, these homes stayed strong even when there was a big earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 in the area.
4: Mandala Circular Homes
- Location: Nelson, Canada
Mandala, a home builder in Nelson, British Columbia, constructs a variety of round tiny homes. This one, part of their Aspen series, is certified as an Energy Star home. It has two bedrooms, a loft, and a big deck that goes all the way around it.
5: Circle Wood Homes
- Location: Izabelin, Poland
A Polish architecture company called Mobius made this circular house in Poland. It looks like a tree trunk that’s been cut, which fits well since it’s in the middle of a forest.
6: Norman Lykes Circular Homes
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Location: Phoenix
The Norman Lykes home stands out as one of his most incredible creations, featuring interlocking circles. Currently, it’s available for sale, but in a unique way: it’s divided into shares for six owners to purchase collectively. Each share costs $1.5 million.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Small Round Houses Called?
A yurt, also known as a ger, is a circular, portable dwelling that has been the main style of home in Central Asia, notably Mongolia, for centuries.
