BACKGROUND: From One Dome to Two: A Deliberate Evolution
Lucas and Grace of Blaeberry Base in Golden, BC are no strangers to the glamping business. Their first dome, the Luxe Serenity Dome, broke even in just 11 months and quickly became the most booked accommodation on their property, averaging 80% annual occupancy at up to $300/night. By most measures, it was a resounding success.
But success taught them something: building a second dome isn't just about replication. It's about refinement. Dome #2, now known as the DripDōme, reflects everything they learned from running Dome #1, from heat planning to premium interior design, combined with a full Hybrid Glass Panorama upgrade from Phoenix Domes.
WHAT THEY DID DIFFERENTLY
Dome #2: Built with Intention
Where Dome #1 was a learning experience, Dome #2 was a deliberate design project. Lucas and Grace refined every element, from the layout to the systems to the finishes, with the goal of creating a more immersive, premium guest experience.
Interior Design & Layout
Dome #2 features a full open-concept kitchen, a fully enclosed bathroom, and a day bed positioned directly in front of the Hybrid Glass Panorama window, framing the view as the centerpiece of the guest experience. Every design choice was made with cohesion and luxury in mind.
Heating & Climate Systems
Having learned that four-season operation demands early infrastructure planning, Lucas and Grace invested in a mini split system for both heating and air conditioning, plus hydronic in-floor heat connected to a propane boiler. The entire dome was professionally spray foamed before the Hybrid Glass kit was installed, ensuring thermal performance from every angle.
The Glass Upgrade
The original plastic panorama windows on their existing domes had already caused real-world problems: condensation buildup, heat loss, and a guest experience that fell short of the luxury positioning they were building toward. The Hybrid Glass Panorama upgrade from Phoenix Domes was included with their newest Phoenix dome purchase, and it made an immediate impact.
"Always go glass to start. Don't upgrade later, it's really a pain to remove the old plastic and frame to install a new one."
INSTALLATION EXPERIENCE
DIY With Real Talk
Lucas and Grace installed both the 6m and 7m Hybrid Glass Panorama upgrades themselves, a true reflection of the resourceful, hands-on spirit that defines Blaeberry Base. Tackling the project with family and friends, they were able to keep costs down while maintaining full ownership of the build process from start to finish.
One big takeaway: it is much easier to integrate the glass panorama window from the beginning than upgrading it later!
Their advice for other dome owners planning a DIY install: bring extra hands and muscles, especially for larger panels, and give yourself the time to do it right. The payoff, in aesthetics, comfort, and guest experience, makes the effort entirely worthwhile.
RESULTS
What Changed Immediately
The impact of the glass upgrade was felt right away, by both the owners and their guests. Views opened up dramatically. Interior comfort improved noticeably. Temperature regulation became more stable. Noise reduction was apparent. And the aesthetics of the dome transformed entirely.
"It really puts the Luxe in Luxe Serenity Dome. Definitely an upscale feeling compared to plastic windows."
— Lucas & Grace
Guest Experience
Guests immediately noticed the clarity and quality of the glass compared to the original plastic windows. For a property positioning itself around luxury glamping, the upgrade directly aligned with the brand promise Lucas and Grace are building at Blaeberry Base.
BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
Projecting Break-Even at 10 Months
The total investment for Dome #2, including all systems, finishes, glass upgrade, and labor, came in at approximately $80,000, with much of the work done by Lucas, Grace, family, and friends. Based on current booking trends and pricing, they are projecting to break even by June 2026, just 10 months after opening.
Nightly rates range from $200 to $450 depending on the season, a higher ceiling than Dome #1. While occupancy has started more slowly (the novelty factor of being the only geodome in Golden has grown with their second listing), forward bookings are trending at higher nightly rates than Dome #1's first year, and they expect 2026 to show stronger performance overall.
"Our future bookings are coming in at higher nightly rates than our first dome, we expect 2026 to show higher occupancy and nightly rate."
— Lucas & Grace, Blaeberry Base
Inspired by Blaeberry Base?
Lucas and Grace built their second dome with greater clarity, stronger systems, and a clear vision for the guest experience they wanted to create. Their story is a powerful reminder that thoughtful upgrades, especially when planned early, can elevate both comfort and long-term performance.
Whether you're launching your first dome, refining an existing setup, or considering a Hybrid Glass Panorama upgrade, Phoenix Domes is here to help you build with more confidence from the start.
Thinking about your own dome project?
Book a Discovery Call to talk through your goals, layout, climate considerations, and upgrade options.
Explore Blaeberry Base
See how Lucas and Grace have brought their vision to life at Blaeberry Base in Golden, BC.
Website: theblaeberrybase.ca
Instagram: @theblaeberrybase
