Chapters 3 / 14
  1. 1 This is a Growing Dome
  2. 2 Choosing the Right Size
  3. 3 Build Site Selection
  4. 4 Climate, Utilities & Year-Round Use
  5. 5 Ownership Expectations
  6. 6 Choosing the Right Foundation
  7. 7 Owner-Supplied Items & Accessories
  8. 8 Permitting & Approvals
  9. 9 Delivery & Site Preparation
  10. 10 Assembly & Installation
  11. 11 Budgeting & Project Planning
  12. 12 Maintenance Overview
  13. 13 Next Steps
  14. 14 Continued Learning & Resources

Build Site Selection

Solar exposure, site preparation and access: how to pick the right spot before you build.

Aerial view of three Growing Domes on a cleared, prepared site

Choosing where to place your Growing Dome is one of the most important decisions in your project. A well-positioned site improves performance, reduces operating costs, and makes year-round use easier. A poor location can limit sunlight, increase heating or cooling demands, and create ongoing challenges.

Solar Exposure and Greenhouse Orientation

Aim for at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day. Prioritise southern exposure, with east and west exposure as secondary contributors. Morning light is especially valuable for early-day warming.

Prioritise clear solar access, while planning for peak summer heat through seasonal shade or other cooling strategies. Sites with limited sunlight may require greater reliance on supplemental heating.

Site Preparation

A flat, level site is preferred. If sloping is necessary, a gentle south-facing slope is the best option. Avoid low areas where water may collect, and consider how the site handles drainage throughout the year.

Clear the area of obstructions before construction begins, including trees, roots, weeds, and underground rhizomes. Preparing the site properly at this stage helps prevent issues later.

Access and Proximity

Keeping the dome reasonably close to your home or main building improves daily access, especially in winter. However, solar exposure should take priority over convenience. Consider how exposed the site is to wind and weather, particularly in open or rural areas.

Practical Planning

Before finalizing your location, think longterm:

  • Plan for power and water access, even if not installed immediately
  • Consider snow clearing and year-round access paths
  • Ensure there is adequate space for delivery, staging, and construction
  • Position the dome where it will be practical to use regularly
  • Greenhouse orientation for winter solar exposure and summer shade
  • Allow at least 1 foot of perimeter clearance for construction and access (e.g., a 22 ft dome requires a 24 ft build area), plus any extra space for local setback requirements.