The History of Marco Island’s Famous ‘Dome Homes’

Gulfstream Homes — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 14:40:07 +0000

The past few weeks have been challenging for our Southwest Florida community as we began to assess the damage left behind by Hurricane Ian. Our area experienced surging floods, as well as dangerous winds, causing our home to change like never before. Although many Marco Island homeowners were fortunate to sustain repairable damage, one island landmark wasn’t so lucky. The Cape Romano domes, known to many locals as the “Dome Homes” were washed away in the treacherous waters brought on by the storm, never to be seen again. For decades, they have been a source of curiosity and wonder for our community, and now, we have to accept the fact that they’ll live on, but only in our memories. So, what was so intriguing about these homes and what drew so many people to admire them often? Let’s delve into the history of Marco Island’s famous ‘Dome Homes’ and discover why they were regarded as a Marco landmark for generations.

Early Years

Construction commenced on these dome-like structures in 1980, with creator, Bob Lee, working diligently to design a home that would be self-sufficient, as well as beneficial to the environment. Constructed of metal dome-shaped materials, the domes were built with southwest Florida’s weather in mind. Built to withstand the harsh winds and rains our area tends to experience, especially during hurricane season, the Cape Romano domes were believed to be ideal for our climate. The proof was when Hurricane Andrew struck in the early 90s, leaving the domes almost completely unscathed. Despite all of the work that went into building this interesting structure, however, the Lee family was forced to move out just two years into living there, due to financial strain.

Nature Begins to Take Over

In 1987, Lee was able to take ownership of the dome houses once again, but to his dismay, the shore was slowly eroding and the homes were steadily making their way into the water. Although the homes were eventually heading into the water for good, that didn’t stop the Lee family from living there for another six years, since the homes were built on pilings and protected from the waters below. As the years went on, plans to relocate the domes were in play; however, this never came into fruition. Slowly, the beach eroded away and the domes began to sit as sentries out in the open waters.

The Cape Romano Domes Today

When Hurricane Irma hit in 2017, two of the domes were washed away, and just recently, Hurricane Ian demolished the remaining four domes with its intense rain, dangerous storm surge, and relentless winds. The Cape Romano domes will forever be a fond memory, built out of a dream to create something unique, making them key elements in Marco Island’s rich history.

Other facts you may not know include:

Access to the domes was only available by water.
They utilized solar power and recycled water.
The homes featured six connected structures, which included three bedrooms, three bathrooms and 2,400 sq. ft. of living space.
They began as a vacation destination for the Lee family.
You’ll still be able to view them underwater as a reef.

As we continue to take in the rich history of the area, the Cape Romano domes will live on in our memories. For now, we’ll continue to enjoy the breathtaking beaches, balmy breezes and timeless character that radiates throughout Marco Island.

Gulfstream Homes is ready to help you build a home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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5 Fun Facts About Marco Island

Gulfstream Homes — Wed, 19 May 2021 20:35:31 +0000

You may know Marco Island for its incredible beaches, unrivaled sunsets and beach town feel; however, there’s more than meets the eye with this treasured Southwest Florida city. Among the sprawling coastlines, shop-lined streets and iconic Jolley Bridge lies a rich history spanning the ages. If you thought that Marco Island was just a tourist destination, think again. As more and more families, part-time residents and retirees seek to put down roots in this idyllic island in paradise, Marco Island continues to grow. But let’s not forget all the history that made the Island what it is today. So, get to know this island oasis with five fun facts about Marco Island.

1. Dominated by the Calusa Tribe

The Marco Island that we know and love today is a far cry from what it used to be, and how it began. The Calusa tribe reigned over the land thousands of years ago, known for their ferocity and ability to survive in the island’s harsh climate. With plenty of food from the land and the sea, the tribe did well in the area, and continued to thrive for years.

2. Largest of the Ten Thousand Islands

Located just off the coast of Southwest Florida lies a chain of islands, known as the Ten Thousand Islands, which are pretty much uninhabited, except for one. Marco Island, the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands is the only populated part of this wonder of nature. You can visit the others on various boat tours, where you’re able to see the abundant plant life and other native creatures that call these islands home.

3. Best Shelling in the Area

Marco Island is known for a lot of things, and shelling is one of them! With so many ties to its rustic past, the Island is a hot spot for tourists and visitors alike who want to get their hands on some one-of-a-kind shells. By far the best place to shell on Marco Island is Tigertail Beach, where you’ll find spectacular shells like:

Atlantic Calico Scallop
Sunray Venus
Atlantic Fig Snail
Lettered Olive

If you want to carry a piece of the Island with you, even when you’re not there, pencil some shelling into your schedule.

4. Many Opportunities to Learn

The Island also caters to those thirsty for knowledge with a wide array of museums and landmarks, open to the public. Take a trip over to the Marco Island Historical Museum to learn more about the Island’s rich history, or enjoy a family outing to the various nature preserves found on and around the Island to view the local wildlife.

5. Home of the Cape Romano Domes

You may have noticed the spaceship-like domes dotting the Island’s coast, and you’d be mistaken if you thought they were placed there by aliens. No, these domes served as a vacation destination for a prominent oilman many years ago, and the beach has since eroded away from disuse. If you want a fun day out on the seas, take a trip by the famous Cape Romano domes.

As you can see, Marco Island is teeming with adventure and history. Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve lived here all your life, there’s always something to learn about the Island. So, get out and explore and when you’re ready to build or buy your perfect Marco Island home, let Gulfstream Homes help. Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.