The Kaiser Aluminum Dome

Concert venue (a.o.) located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Kaiser Aluminum Geodesic Dome line of products was inspired in its geometry by R. Buckminster Fuller, and developed by designer/engineer Don Richter. It premiered as a 15,000 square foot auditorium in Hawaii seating 2,000 people. Erected in 20 hours using aircraft structural and construction techniques, it was designed to withstand winds of twice hurricane force. Its geodesic geometry provided for the maximum repeated use of similar panels resulting in a minimum variety of differently-sized units, keeping each of the units as close to the same dimensions as possible, allowing for maximization of fabrication and structural efficiencies. Working within Henry J. Kaiser’s far-flung industrial empire as well as with Don Richter and his design team was inspiring and enlightening. Don Richter was a fine inventor and leader. Kaiser was a huge aluminum producer.