When you see a dome-like structure rising up in the middle of a desert, chances are you’re thinking of secret alien landings or some other conspiracy theory involving the government. Maybe we’re just so used to all those alien documentaries or some sci-fi movies we believe are based on actual events. But in the middle of the rugged landscape of Pioneertown, California is a unique structure that you can stay in and does not involve any extraterrestrials.
The HATA Dome is designed and built by Anastasiya Dudik, who executed the whole thing without using a studio, contractor, or a team. This is a testament to intuitive design and a “future primitive” ethos that brings together the past and the future as she is inspired by architectural logic but also more modern forms. She incorporated curved forms, thermal mass, and elemental materials to create a home that feels both ancient and forward-thinking. This monolithic concrete dome not only captivates with its striking silhouette but also offers a sustainable and emotionally resonant living space in the harsh desert climate.
Designer: Anastasiya Dudik
Constructed using an airform, rebar, shotcrete, and stucco, the HATA Dome boasts exceptional fire resistance and seismic safety, crucial considerations for its remote location. Beyond structural integrity, the dome’s design prioritizes passive thermal performance, naturally regulating the interior temperature and minimizing the need for extensive heating and cooling. This makes it an ideal model for off-grid living and climate resilience.
The exterior of the HATA Dome presents a poetic contrast, appearing brutalist yet softened by its organic curves. Its form seems to emerge from the boulder-strewn landscape, a geological presence both familiar and unexpected. Inside, the 16-foot high ceilings create a cathedral-like atmosphere, bathed in natural light that dances across the plaster walls. The acoustics are hushed and grounding, enhancing the sense of refuge. Even the integrated furnishings, some carved directly from boulders, contribute to the dome’s continuous, sculptural gesture.
It’s not just a performative structure though. You can actually stay in it by booking through Air BnB if you want to experience all that we’ve described and get away from the concrete jungle for a day or two. So, the next time you find yourself gazing at the horizon of Pioneertown, and a dome-like form catches your eye, resist the urge to reach for your alien conspiracy guidebook. Instead, consider it an invitation. Perhaps a night or two in the HATA Dome is just the otherworldly experience you were looking for, no little green men required.
