The Allure of Round Houses: 2 Bedroom Round House Plans
Round houses, with their unique circular form, have captivated architects and homeowners alike for centuries. This architectural style transcends time and cultures, boasting a rich history and a captivating appeal that continues to resonate in modern design.
The History and Cultural Significance of Round Houses
The circular form of round houses has been a recurring theme in human architecture since the dawn of civilization. From the ancient stone huts of prehistoric Europe to the traditional yurts of nomadic cultures, round houses have served as shelters, community spaces, and symbols of cultural identity.
The earliest examples of round houses can be traced back to the Neolithic period, where communities built circular structures using readily available materials like stone, wood, and earth. These structures were often communal, providing shelter and a sense of unity for the inhabitants.
Throughout history, round houses have been embraced by diverse cultures across the globe. In ancient Greece, round houses were known as “tholos,” and they were often used as temples or tombs. In the Middle East, round houses were commonly used as dwellings, with examples like the “trulli” of Puglia, Italy, still standing today.
Benefits of Round House Design
Round houses offer a unique set of advantages that have made them enduringly popular:
Energy Efficiency
- Round houses have a smaller surface area compared to rectangular houses with the same floor space. This reduced surface area minimizes heat loss in cold climates and heat gain in hot climates, resulting in lower energy consumption for heating and cooling.
- The curved walls of round houses create a more even distribution of heat throughout the structure, reducing the need for additional heating or cooling systems.
Space Optimization
- The circular floor plan of round houses allows for a more efficient use of space. This is especially beneficial in smaller homes, where every square foot counts.
- Round houses eliminate the need for corners, which can often feel wasted space in rectangular houses. This allows for a more fluid and open layout, maximizing the usable area.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Round houses have a distinct and visually appealing aesthetic that sets them apart from traditional rectangular homes. Their organic shape creates a sense of warmth, intimacy, and harmony with the natural environment.
- The circular form of round houses evokes a sense of continuity and unity, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
Famous Round Houses
Round houses have captivated architects and designers throughout history, inspiring some of the most iconic and innovative structures in the world.
The Pantheon, Rome
Built in the 2nd century AD, the Pantheon is one of the most impressive examples of round house architecture in the world. This ancient Roman temple, with its iconic dome and oculus, stands as a testament to the enduring power of circular design.
The Taj Mahal, Agra, India
This 17th-century mausoleum, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a masterpiece of round house architecture. Its central dome, surrounded by four smaller domes, creates a breathtakingly symmetrical and harmonious structure.
The Gherkin, London
This modern skyscraper, completed in 2004, is a prime example of how round house principles can be applied to contemporary architecture. Its distinctive rounded shape, inspired by the Gherkin cucumber, has become a landmark of the London skyline.
Building a 2-Bedroom Round House
Embarking on the journey of building a round house, particularly a 2-bedroom dwelling, requires careful planning and execution. The unique geometry of a circular structure presents both opportunities and challenges compared to traditional rectangular homes.
Foundation
A strong and stable foundation is crucial for any house, and round houses are no exception. The foundation type will depend on the soil conditions and the overall weight of the structure.
- Concrete Slab Foundation: This is a common choice for round houses, as it provides a solid base and can be easily shaped to the circular form. The slab is typically poured on a compacted gravel bed and reinforced with steel rebar.
- Pier and Beam Foundation: This type of foundation uses concrete piers that are spaced around the perimeter of the house. Beams are then laid on top of the piers to support the floor joists. This is a good option for areas with expansive soils or where there is a need to allow for drainage.
Walls
Round house walls can be constructed using a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Timber Framing: Traditional timber framing involves using wooden beams and posts to create the structure of the walls. This method is often used in round houses because it allows for flexibility in shaping the walls.
- Concrete Block: Concrete blocks are durable and fire-resistant, making them a popular choice for round house walls. They can be stacked and mortared together to create a strong and stable structure.
- Straw Bale: Straw bale construction is an eco-friendly option that uses bales of straw as insulation and structural elements. Straw bales are relatively inexpensive and provide excellent thermal insulation.
Roof
The roof of a round house is often the most challenging aspect of construction. There are a few common roof types used in round house designs:
- Dome Roof: A dome roof is a classic choice for round houses. It provides a strong and durable structure and offers excellent insulation. The dome shape can be created using a variety of materials, including wood, steel, or concrete.
- Conical Roof: A conical roof is another popular option for round houses. It is simpler to construct than a dome roof and provides a more traditional look. Conical roofs are typically made of wood or metal.
Interior Finishes, 2 bedroom round house plans
The interior finishes of a round house can be as varied as the exterior. Here are a few popular choices:
- Wood Flooring: Wood flooring is a classic choice for round houses, as it adds warmth and character to the space. Hardwood flooring is durable and can be refinished multiple times.
- Tile Flooring: Tile flooring is a good option for areas that receive a lot of traffic, such as the kitchen and bathrooms. It is easy to clean and comes in a wide variety of styles and colors.
- Drywall: Drywall is a common material used for interior walls and ceilings. It is relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
