Interior Finish

Interior vision: curved pole arches frame views of the surrounding forest

Lime Plaster Walls

The interior of the wattle dome receives two coats of lime plaster. This seals the structure, reflects light, and provides fire resistance.

1. Scratch coat: 1 part hydraulic lime : 3 parts sharp sand. Press firmly into the wattle gaps. Score the surface with a comb while wet.
2. Finish coat: 1 part lime putty : 2.5 parts fine sand. Apply 3-5mm thick over the cured scratch coat. Trowel smooth.
3. Limewash: Thin lime putty diluted with water. Apply 3-4 coats by brush. This brightens the interior considerably — important in a dome where natural light is limited.

Lime Burns Skin

Wear gloves and eye protection when working with lime. Wash splashes immediately with water and vinegar.

Built-in sleeping platform and circular window — the dome’s curved walls create natural alcoves

Floor

Three practical options:

• Earthen floor (simplest): Compacted earth base, lime-stabilized top layer (1 part lime : 4 parts earth), sealed with linseed oil. Cool in summer, can be cold in winter — use rugs.
• Lime concrete: 1 part hydraulic lime : 2 parts sand : 3 parts gravel, 10cm thick over compacted gravel base. More durable than earthen, warmer underfoot.
• Timber deck: Raised timber floor on eucalyptus sleepers. Creates an air gap for insulation and moisture management. Most comfortable but most expensive.

The wind porch creates a covered transition between inside and outside