Stromberg Architectural Products -Domes

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Why Stromberg Architectural Domes?
  • World's largest producer of domes
  • The capacity to handle projects of any size
  • A range of materials, textures, and finishes
  • Best selection of domes anywhere

Category: clear-span structures | clearspan structures | domes...

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Stromberg Architectural Products
4400 O'Neal St.
Greenville, TX 75401
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Fax: (903) 454-3642

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Overview


Domes

Why Stromberg Architectural Domes?

  • World's largest producer of domes
  • The capacity to handle projects of any size
  • A range of materials, textures, and finishes
  • Best selection of domes anywhere
Options
  • Coffered domes
  • Onion domes
  • Custom domes
  • Cupolas
  • Finials
Select Projects and Clients
  • Opryland Hotel, Nashville, TN
  • Atlantis Resort, Paradise Islands, BS
  • Fendi, Las Vegas, NV

Technical Dome Information

Material Selection

  • GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) domes
  • GFRG (Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum) domes
  • GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer) domes
Domes overview

You have arrived at the most extensive and comprehensive dome site on the web. Here you will find information on all types of domes, dome specifications, dome drawings, and dome details for all types of domes.

We have to agree with Michelangelo when he stated "A dome, the most perfect of forms". A dome is the most perfect of forms: beautiful, strong, and versatile.

At Stromberg, we have been producing domes for over 30 years and have probably built more architectural domes than anyone else. We learned long ago that by offering a variety of materials, we could help our clients select the dome material that is best for their project. We can help you objectively compare the benefits of a variety of domes and dome materials, and select the one that is best for your application. What material is right for your project?

Fiberglass reinforced concrete domes

What is GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete)

Glass fiber reinforced concrete ( GFRC ) also called GRC or FRC is a cementitious, composite material, cast in thin shell shapes for use in construction. Consisting of Portland cement, aggregate, water, alkali-resistant glass fibers, polymer and additives, the GFRC mix design is custom engineered depending on the requirements of the GFRC project and the GFRC part.

Advantages of GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) Domes
  • GFRC is made of minerals and will not burn.
  • GFRC is relatively light in weight compared to traditional stone or terra cotta ornaments. Its installation is quick and relatively easy.
  • GFRC domes can be cast to virtually any shape.
  • GFRC domes can be made either with a cast in integral color and texture: limestone, precast concrete, acid wash, etc. or as paint grade that is easily finished with virtually any paint.
Constructing GFRC Domes

Large GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) domes are generally cast in pie shaped segments, and assembled on-site. Smaller domes, generally less than eight to 10 feet diameter, may be cast as one piece units, or in segments. If the dome is a decorative element to be viewed from the exterior only, the roof is put in place, and the dome placed above it. Similarly if the dome is to be viewed from the interior only, it may be suspended from the ceiling structure above it. If the domes are to be viewed from both the interior and the exterior than a double dome is required with insulation placed between the inner and outer dome. Exterior glass reinforced concrete domes may be molded smooth or textured, with ribs or even with the molded in shape of roof tile, or glazed mosaic tile. Interior domes in GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) may be smooth, ribbed, or coffered. In some applications both an exterior dome of GFRC or fiberglass, and an interior dome of GFRC or fiberglass are used. Between the inner dome and outer dome, the dome cavity may be insulated.

What is GFRC and what is a GFRC dome?

GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) is concrete that uses glass fibers for reinforcement instead of steel. It is typically cast in a thin section of around 1/2" to 3/4". Since the fibers cannot rust like steel, there is no need for a protective concrete cover thickness to prevent rusting. With the thin, hollow construction of GFRC products, they can weigh a fraction of the weight of traditional precast concrete or stone.

How strong is GFRC?

As an engineered material, the properties of GFRC can vary depending upon mix design, glass content and production methods. Glass fiber used in quality GFRC has a higher tensile strength than steel. As a general rule, the higher the fiber content, the higher the strength. A typical GFRC mix with 5% glass fiber has a flexural modulus of elasticity of around 1.5 to 2.9 X10 6 and compressive strength of 6,000 to 8,000 psi.

How durable is GFRC?

GFRC has been tested both by accelerated aging tests in the laboratory and in real life installations. GFRC can be expected to last as long as pre-cast concrete. In many environments, as when exposed to salt spray or high moisture, the GFRC can be expected to perform better, as there is no steel reinforcement to corrode. Since the surface of GFRC is a Portland concrete, it weathers much as a quality architectural pre-cast concrete would.

How is GFRC attached?

Most GFRC domes can be divided into two categories: with internal frame and without. GFRC with an internal frame is for larger pieces and panels. The internal frame allows for what would have been multiple pieces of terra-cotta , to be installed in one large unit. GFRC without the internal frame is generally set one piece at a time, much the way terra-cotta would have been. This is useful in cases where not all of the terra-cotta needs to be replaced.

Fiberglass Reinforced Gypsum domes

Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum, is also referred to as Fiberglass Reinforced Gypsum (FRG) and Glass Reinforced Gypsum (GRG).

Stromberg GFRG domes are cast in a composite of high-strength gypsum and glass fibers, which can be factory molded into virtually any size or shape. The versatility of GFRG allows it to create beautiful domes with smooth sweeping curves, or intricate details.

Stromberg GFRG domes are lightweight and strong

Basic GFRG Dome Facts
  • Thickness of Stromberg GFRG domes varies between 1/8" and 3/16" (3 to 5 mm). Edges are slightly thicker.
  • Stromberg GFRG domes weigh just 2 to 3 pounds per square foot. (10 to 15 kg/square meter)
  • Stromberg GFRG is a 100% noncombustible mineral composite. It will not burn.
  • The cast GFRG dome finish can be a smooth white plaster to be painted on site or a stone texture.
  • Stromberg GFRG domes provide relatively quick and easy installation.
  • GFRG domes are suitable for historical restoration or new projects.
  • Stromberg produces both standard and custom GFRG domes.
  • Dome designs can be complex or simple, traditional or contemporary.
  • Stromberg offers no obligation dome design and detailing assistance.
Applications

GFRG domes can be used wherever a light, strong and fire retardant material is required

  • Casinos
  • Fine Restaurants
  • Hotels and Resorts
  • Religious Buildings
  • Theaters
  • Residential
GFRG Domes: Color and texture options.
  • Smooth plaster, to be field painted
  • Metallics: Bronze, gold, gold leaf, copper, aged bronze, aged copper, nickel and custom metallic.
  • Stone: limestone, sandstone, marble, granite and custom stone.
  • Colors: Any color from any paint chart.
  • Textures: smooth, aged metal, stone, travertine, distressed, mosaic tile, wood grain and custom textures.
  • Custom: Have something else in mind?
Other GFRG Design Elements

To compliment the GFRG domes, Stromberg also produces GFRG:

  • Moldings
  • Ceilings
  • Columns
  • Light coves
  • Bas Relief Sculpture
  • Capitals
  • Fireplace Surrounds
  • Medallions
  • Custom shapes
Manufacturing process for a custom GRG dome
  1. From the architect's drawings or designers images, Stromberg CAD department generates shop drawings showing parts and installation.
  2. Once the shop drawings approved, a combination the latest computer-driven CAM equipment as well as old-fashioned artistic skill produces the model of the dome from which molds will be made.
  3. Accurate molds are produced from the dome models.
  4. High-strength gypsum and glass reinforcing fiber is cast into the molds. The casting process applies a fiber free face coat into the mold first and then the glass fiber reinforced backing.
  5. When the fiber reinforced gypsum has hardened, the parts are removed, cleaned and dried
  6. The details are carefully checked as part of a multi step quality inspection.
  7. The dome is packaged for shipment.
GFRG Dome Installation:

Installation: Installation methods for GFRG domes vary depending upon the location and the ceiling construction. In suspended ceilings, GFRG ceiling domes may be suspended from hanger wire similar to a suspended ceiling. In wood or metal framed ceilings the GFRG dome can be attached to the framing with screws. The screws are then countersunk and filled over.

Small domes are supplied as one piece. Larger GFRG domes are supplied in pie shaped sections.

GFRG Dome Terminology

Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum, is also sometimes referred to as Fiberglass Reinforced Gypsum, FRG and as Glass Reinforced Gypsum or GRG.

Custom GFRG Dome Design Criteria

Here are some design considerations for using GFRG in your project:

  • Detail. GFRG can reproduce intricate details or smooth sweeping curves.
  • Size. GFRG can be cast in pieces up to 28' in length. The longer the length, the more difficult it is to handle and ship the GFRG casting. We recommend a maximum length of 12' for most dome segments. If longer lengths are required, pieces can be field joined in a seamless manner.
  • Surface Finish. The lowest priced finish is usually a plain smooth GFRG. It is generally finished with a flat latex paint. If you intend to use a gloss finish, the GFRG will need some field priming and prep work.
  • Special Reinforcements. GFRG domes may have rods, angles, straps, hanging wires or studs cast into the back of the casting for reinforcement and attachment.
Fiberglass reinforced domes

Fiberglass is the term used to describe FRP (fiberglass reinforced polymer). FRP (fiberglass) are generally produced as a thin rigid laminate shell. Fiberglass (FRP) domes are formed by spraying a polyester resin gel coat into a mold. When the gel coat is tack-free, layers of chopped glass fiber or glass fabric and resin are added. Reinforcing ribs, rods and struts can be added if necessary. The fiberglass gel coat can be pigmented or painted. Fiberglass domes are frequently used as where a lightweight, strong and long lasting dome is needed. Fiberglass has excellent versatility, and fiberglass domes can replicate stone, wood, metal and terra cotta. Fiberglass domes can be cast in bright colors or even gold leafed. Its ability to be cast into ornate or complex shapes makes it possible to produce ornate dome drums and dome drum elements including columns, column capitals, balustrades, dome cornices or parapets. Fiberglass domes are lightweight and fiberglass domes have a high ratio of strength to weight. Being produced from resins and fiberglass cloth is what gives FRP domes the ability to be molded into almost any shape, including complex dome shapes. Fiberglass domes are able to be integrally colored, painted or gold leafed. On the jobsite, fiberglass domes are easy and quick to install.

Features:
  • Stromberg Fiberglass Domes provide quick on-site construction and assembly
  • Stromberg Fiberglass domes are low cost
  • Stromberg Fiberglass domes are rot resistant
  • Stromberg Fiberglass Domes do not rust
  • Stromberg Fiberglass domes are highly corrosion resistant
  • Stromberg Fiberglass domes are weather resistant
  • Fiberglass domes do not harbor termites
  • Fiberglass (FRP) domes are easily repaired if ever damaged
  • Strength & durability of fiberglass domes is exceptional
  • Flame, flood & earthquake resistant
  • Hurricane resistant

Advantages:

Weatherproof

Hurricanes to blizzards; tropics to the arctic. Stromberg domes have stood up to it all, including category 5 hurricanes

Light Weight

Less weight to erect, less weight to support

Custom Ability

Any size, any shape, any color any texture

Durable

Resists acid rain, salt water, UV rays, hail, high winds and vandalism

Experience

30 year proven history of performance. Stromberg fiberglass domes are built by the leaders in architectural fiberglass, with more architectural fiberglass dome experience than anyone.

With the development of fiberglass reinforced plastics a little over 50 years ago, a new material for building domes was introduced. FRP has a long history of use in aviation, where it must stand up to wind speeds of hundreds or even thousands of miles per hour, brutal cold and extreme heat. It's also used in the marine industry on speedboats yachts and military vessels, where it must remain submerged in salt water for years, and be slammed at high speeds against the ocean surface without leaking. Its characteristics of strength, durability, corrosion resistance, water resistance and ability to be molded, make it an ideal material for domes. Stromberg led the development of the use of fiberglass for domes over two decades ago. We've probably built more architectural fiberglass domes than anyone.

Fiberglass is waterproof, incredibly strong, and lightweight and can be molded into virtually any shape, color or texture. What this means to you, is that your fiberglass dome, if properly constructed, can stand up to snow, salt water, hurricanes and just about anything nature can throw at it. Our fiberglass domes are found in the Arctic cold, to the tropical heat. Because fiberglass domes are lightweight, these domes impose virtually no significant load on the structure below, other than for wind and snow loads. They can be molded as smooth domes, textured domes, and tiled domes or in any color. Our fiberglass domes can replicate bronze, stone, gold, copper, stainless steel, terra cotta, marble, and granite. We have produced the world's largest architectural fiberglass dome, and domes for the finest buildings in the world.

Stromberg has created domes with the color of abalone shell, with a Spanish style mosaic tile, with barrel tile, with metallic colors and textures, and in every color of the rainbow. The fiberglass domes are made in large pie shaped sections which are then transported to the jobsite. These are bolted together to form the complete dome.

  • Fiberglass domes are lightweight. Typical FRP domes weigh approximately 2 lbs per square foot. This minimizes the load on your structure and speeds dome erection.
  • Fiberglass domes are strong. Stromberg domes have survived category 5 hurricanes with no damage. Fiberglass domes are virtually maintenance free. Salt, chemicals and acid rain are no problem for a Stromberg fiberglass dome.
  • Fiberglass domes are versatile. Stromberg can produce domes in virtually any shape or size.
  • Fiberglass domes are beautiful. No other material offers you such a range of possibilities when designing a dome.
  • Fiberglass domes can replicate existing details, or create a new design.

We produce domes for churches, government buildings, restaurants, resorts and private estates. In addition to fiberglass, domes are cast in GRG (glass reinforced gypsum), GFRC Glass fiber reinforced concrete and translucent (art glass). What material is right for your project?

Put our 30 years experience in domes, castings and architectural elements to work for you.

Weatherproof: Stromberg Fiberglass domes are custom designed to meet the needs of their specific location.

  • Artic regions require the domes to withstand snow loads and wind loads, tropics require hurricane resistance. Our Fiberglass Domes are engineered to withstand the winds, snow loads and seismic forces of your project location and local codes.
  • Our domes have withstood category 5 (the highest wind speed) hurricanes with no damage.
  • Due to their shape, domes are inherently very strong. Our use of high strength composites makes them even stronger.
  • The Dome shape is very aero dynamic. Winds deflect off of the rounded surface.

Stromberg Fiberglass produced and constructed the Great Hall of Waters Dome at Atlantis. The largest architectural fiberglass structure in the world, it rises over 140' and is directly on the ocean. It has withstood three hurricanes with no damage.

"Hurricane Floyd was a category 5 hurricane and did billions of dollars of damage to the Bahamas and the USA. When it hit here the roar was deafening. Over several hours, the high winds and flying debris knocked down buildings and uprooted trees. It ripped stucco from the walls of the hotel next door and ran some huge ships up onto the beach. The next morning when we went outside the area was devastated. There were trees and debris scattered everywhere. I was stunned when the weather cleared and there in the morning light was the Atlantis great dome and marlins, still standing and unfazed by the wrath of the hurricane."

Gilbert Devoe, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Fiberglass Domes: Color and texture options.

  • Metallics: Bronze, gold, gold leaf, copper, aged bronze, aged copper, nickel and custom metallic.
  • Stone: limestone, sandstone, marble, granite and custom stone.
  • Colors: Any color from any paint chart.
  • Textures: smooth, aged metal, stone, travertine, distressed, mosaic tile, barrel tile, wood grain and custom textures.
  • Custom: Have something else in mind?

Some fiberglass dome examples:

This fiberglass dome is found at The Georgetown City Council Chambers. Stromberg supplied the dome roof, which is aged bronze fiberglass, the round cornice of GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete), below which is the dome drum, also of GFRC which contains the windows.

This is the interior view of the Georgetown fiberglass dome. The dome was a composite structure with an interior fiberglass dome, a layer of insulation and an outside fiberglass dome.

Fiberglass domes and finials for Atlantis, Bahamas. The columns, arched surrounds, columns and finials are also fiberglass by Stromberg. For this application, the fiberglass dome is elevated above the roof membrane and the dome is decorative element.

Fiberglass domes at Atlantis, Bahamas. The Great Hall of Waters dome is in the background. Over 140' tall, the structure includes the fiberglass dome, wave and marlins as well as the dome drum of fiberglass in a weathered stone texture. In the forground is the tower lighthouse dome. The fiberglass dome is an abalone color. The fiberglass dome ring and columns are cast in an aged bronze color. The base is fiberglass in a stone color and texture. The dome finials are aged bronze and gold color.

Fiberglass onion, bulbous or mogul style dome. This fiberglass dome is at a private residence in California. Patterned after the beautiful domes of the Taj Mahal, the FRP dome is cast in Strombergs GFRS (glass fiber reinforced stone) and has a stone color and texture.

Fiberglass Octagonal Dome.110'+ diameter. Dome and finial are aged brone fiberglass. Dome trim and seahorse columns are fiberglass with stone texture and color. Atlantis Bahamas

Fiberglass dome, columns and trim (also known as a belvedere).

Custom fiberglass dome with the molded in shape of custom barrel tiles

Part of the Stromberg shop drawings of the custom fiberglass domes. We are here to assist you with detailing, connections and engineering of the dome for your project.

In addition to round fiberglass domes, Stromberg produces custom fiberglass roof structures such as this rectangular porta cochere roof.

Fiberglass roof (FRP) in aged bronze color. Also custom fiberglass dome finials and dome trim.

Fiberglass dome with custom detailing. One advantage of fiberglass is the ability to mold in details such as this rope pattern and grooves.

Coffering refers to the construction of ceilings or domes, where a web of crossed supports is overlaid to create a series of square, rectangular or octagonal recessed areas known as coffers. The most famous coffered dome is the Pantheon, in Rome. Coffers may be relatively plain, or they may be highly ornamented. The more obscure word for a coffer is a Lacunar. Stromberg produces coffered domes in fiberglass, GFRC and GRG (GFRG) . Need a custom dome?

Materials.

For coffered domes the material choices include:

  • GRG (glass fiber reinforced gypsum or GFRG)
  • GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete or GRC)
  • Fiberglass (GFRP)
  • Translucent: KrystaClear or stained glass
Installation of coffered domes.

The method of installation for a coffered dome depends upon the material and the buildings construction. Coffered domes generally install by the same methods as other domes.

A cupola is a dome shaped structure on top of a larger dome or a roof. Cupolas are often louvered for ventilation. Cupolas can contain windows. Cupolas for churches and other houses of worship are sometimes set with glass or stained-glass windows. The word comes from the Latin 'cupella' or the Greek 'kupellon') meaning a small cup (A cupola resembling an upside down cup). A coupla that is lighted is sometimes referred to as a lantern. A cupola with access for viewing out of to view the scenery is often called a belvedere, from the Italian term for fair view.

Exterior Architectural Domes

Exterior domes are architectural enhancements that are not only unbelievably strong, but also visually stunning. They may appear on churches, hotels, government buildings, and even some private homes. Exterior domes are available in a wide variety of styles. Cupola domes, onion domes, coffered domes, and the classic semi-spherical shape are all possibilities.

Suitable Materials for Exterior Domes

Exterior domes are continuously exposed to the elements. Because they must withstand wind, snow, heat, and rain, only certain materials are strong enough and sufficiently durable for use in these types of architectural domes. Materials that are suitable include:

Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer:
  • Versatile, strong, and lightweight.
  • Available in numerous styles, textures, and colors.
Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete:
  • Reinforced with fiberglass instead of steel.
  • The beauty of concrete without the thickness and added weight.
  • Non-combustible.
Glass Fiber Reinforced Stone:
  • Looks just like carved stone, but weighs significantly less.
  • Strong and weather resistant.
Exterior Domes: Common Concerns

There are numerous concerns when it comes to exterior domes. One of the major ones is that stone or concrete domes, which are quite heavy, can put a substantial amount of stress on the rest of the building. Exterior domes made of metal can rust and corrode over time, which can mean costly repairs. A rusted or corroded dome will also detract from the overall attractiveness of the building. Exterior domes made of wood have their own unique set of problems. They are a perfect breeding ground for termites, and wood is also prone to rotting. Some types of exterior domes can also become damaged during severe weather events, such as hurricanes and earthquakes.

Advantages of Using Fiberglass for Exterior Domes

Choosing architectural fiberglass domes from Stromberg can address most of the major concerns that many people have about exterior domes. First of all, the fact that they are lightweight means fiberglass reinforced domes will not put unnecessary stress on the structure. In addition to being affordable, fiberglass reinforced domes will never rot, corrode, or rust, even when they are exposed to acid rain or located close to salt water. There is no danger of termite damage with architectural fiberglass domes, and they are very strong and weather-resistant. In fact, Stromberg domes have stood up against category five hurricanes without sustaining damage! They can even withstand earthquakes and floods.

How to Choose the Best Exterior Dome

With Stromberg domes, there are a virtually limitless number of choices. Since architectural fiberglass domes are formed using a mold, and not constructed in a traditional manner like wood or stone domes, they can be practically any size, shape, or style. Fiberglass, in addition to being lightweight, strong, and durable, is also very versatile. These types of architectural domes can be made to resemble a wide variety of materials, including sandstone, marble, bronze, and even gold. They also come in a large number of colors. Consider each of these elements when you are choosing an exterior dome. Stromberg can custom design exterior domes to your exact wishes, and they can help you choose the best material, style, texture, and color if you aren't sure what type of architectural dome would be best.

Interior Architectural Domes

While exterior domes must be durable, weather-resistant, and strong, the primary function of interior domes is to provide a visual enhancement to a specific area of a building, whether it's a dining area, hotel lobby, entranceway, or even a bedroom. The shapes, styles, and designs of interior domes are limited only by the imagination. Interior domes can be found in many different types of buildings. Casinos, hotels, and some fine dining restaurants incorporate the use of interior domes in areas where an unmistakable sense of sophistication and class is needed. Some private residences and churches also contain interior reinforced domes.

Suitable Materials for Interior Domes

Interior domes will not be exposed to the elements, so they need not be constructed of materials that are specifically designed to withstand extreme temperatures and harsh weather. The two materials that are most commonly used for interior architectural fiberglass domes are:

Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG):
  • GFRG can be molded to construct interior domes that are virtually any shape or size
  • Architectural domes made of GFRG are thin and lightweight
  • Choose from a variety of color and texture options
  • Non-combustible
  • These domes can be accented with GFRG moldings, columns, light coves, and more
Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP):
  • GFRP is very cost effective compared to other material choices
  • Interior domes made from GFRP are easily repaired if damaged
  • GFRP architectural domes can be made to resemble a number of materials
Concerns: Interior Domes

When it comes to architectural fiberglass domes, the major considerations for interior domes are quite different than those for exterior domes. One primary consideration is that interior domes must be quite lightweight. Some interior architectural domes are suspended from ceilings through the use of screws, hangar wire, or threaded rod. Others are supported through the use of a framed ring in the ceiling. In both cases, it is necessary to use a lightweight material to ensure that interior domes can be safely installed and will not put excessive stress on ceilings. Stromberg architectural fiberglass domes that are constructed of GFRG or GFRP are extremely lightweight; even very large ones can be safely suspended from ceilings.

Another common concern is whether interior domes will be aesthetically pleasing. Stromberg is committed to designing and installing only the most stunning interior domes. Because we use molds, we can design domes that are virtually any size, shape, or texture. In addition, our architectural fiberglass domes can be painted almost any color, or they can be constructed to resemble numerous materials, including limestone, copper, bronze, marble, and even gold. For those interested in translucent domes, Stromberg offers materials that provide the look of real stained glass. These architectural domes can feature classic images, geometric patterns, or custom designs. Interior domes designed and installed by Stromberg will perfectly suit any decor.

Interior Domes Design

When it comes to interior domes design and installation, the main goal is to have a visually pleasing structure that can be safely installed. To choose the best architectural fiberglass domes, the location where they will be installed must be carefully considered. The choice of color and texture depends on whether the domes will subtly accent the area or provide a stunning contrast. For example, a white dome with a marble texture would be a subtle finishing touch to a white or beige room, but in a dark blue or black room with wooden furnishings, it would provide quite a different effect. The size and shape of interior domes are also important considerations. Perfectly-sized domes will be noticeable, but not overwhelming. Because of the large number of factors to consider, choosing the perfect architectural fiberglass dome can seem like a daunting task. The experts at Stromberg have been designing and installing domes for over 30 years. They can tell you about available interior reinforced domes or custom design one according to your exact wishes and specifications. Stromberg is known for being able to build practically anything, so you can be confident that they can design and install the perfect interior dome for your restaurant, casino, hotel, church, or home.

Onion domes, bulbous domes

An Onion Dome is a dome that resembles more than half of a sphere, exemplified by domes of some Orthodox Churches, Russian, Arabic and Northern Indian architecture.

This dome, for a private residence in California, is patterned after the Moghul style of the Taj Majal dome. Stunningly beautiful and exquisitely detailed, it shows what is possible in Stromberg FRP and GFRS domes.

Materials for onion domes

Prefabricated onion domes are available in various materials including:

  • GFRP (architectural fiberglass)
  • GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete)
  • GFRS (glass fiber reinforced stone)

About Onion Domes

Russian and Eastern European Domes

The Russian Orthodox Church and Eastern European architecture frequently features onion domes. In the Baroque architecture of Germany, they are known as Zwiebeltürme.

Mughal Architecture Domes

Based on a fusion of Persian, Islamic and Indian architecture, the most famous example of the onion dome of the Mughal style are the domes of the Taj Mahal.

Islamic Domes

Onion shaped domes are frequently used for Mosques (Masjid) and on minarets. Stromberg fiberglass domes have been used on several Mosques, both in the US and internationally. The term Islamic architecture also includes Persian, Moorish, Turkish and other categories of architectural styles which include variations on the basic onion dome shape.

Options

Onion domes may be supplied in a variety of finishes:

  • Smooth gel coat finish
  • Gold Leaf
  • Aged copper or bronze finish
  • Stone texture
Construction of the domes

Stromberg domes typically consist of pie shaped sections that bolt together with a concealed flange. There is usually an inner dome and an outer dome. This allows for insulation of the cavity between the inner and outer dome shells.


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Specifications

FeatureBenefit Advantage
Stromberg GFRC Domes provide quick on-site construction and assembly.Stromberg GFRC domes arrive at the jobsite in one piece (for small domes) or in pie shaped sections. Each dome section has a turned down flange to allow it to be bolted to the next section.GFRC speeds the construction process and reduces the associated costs.
Stromberg GFRC domes are low costStromberg GFRC domes are generally lower in cost than site built domes, concrete air form domes, masonry domes and other dome construction methods.no system gives you a better value for your moneyGFRC domes by Stromberg provide real value for the money.
Stromberg GFRC domes are rot resistantUnlike wood or foam, GFRC does not rot.You save maintenance costs as GFRC Domes allow you to avoid the costs and inconvenience of rot that plague other materials.
Stromberg GFRC Domes do notrustGFRC does not rust.In severe environments, the GFRC dome can be designed with no metal components.No rust to deal with
GFRC domes by Stromberg are environmentally friendlyThe main ingredients of GFRC are based on the plentiful and naturally occurring minerals. These natural materials are not normally regarded as pollutants. GFRC itself is a stable mineral based material, and is inert.Environmentally friendly.
Flame, flood & earthquake resistantThe resilience of GFRC allows it several advantages in earthquake conditions. It holds up to floods. It will NOT burn.May reduce insurance costs. Reduces risk from water, wind and fire.