The Cape Romano Dome House
The Cape Romano Dome House was a unique architectural masterpiece. Located just south of Marco Island on the southern tip of the barrier Island called Cape Romano. It was built in the late 1970s by a retired oil producer, Bob Lee, and his wife Margaret. Unique for its dome shape and self-sustaining features. At the time, it was a marvel of modern architecture. It quickly became a local attraction and a symbol of the adventurous spirit of its builders.
The charm of the Cape Romano Dome House was in its ability to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. The domes were built from a mix of sand, water, and cement. It was designed to withstand the strongest winds and waves. The house was also self-sustaining, with solar panels and a rainwater collection system that provided all the necessary utilities. Its location on the beach made it a popular destination for tourists, photographers, and filmmakers.
The house had been standing for over four decades, weathering hurricanes and tropical storms. However, over the years, the beachfront had eroded, and the sea level had risen, causing the house to become partially submerged in the water. In 2022, Hurricane Ian proved to be too much for what remained of the iconic structure.
The powerful storm, with winds exceeding 150 mph, hit the area with full force, causing widespread destruction. The Cape Romano Dome House was among the casualties of the storm, with its domes collapsing under the force of the wind and waves.
A Photo That Stands In Time
Although the Cape Romano Dome House is no longer standing, it’s legacy lives on. Its unique design continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and admirers around the world. The Cape Romano Dome House may be gone, but its spirit lives on, a symbol of the human capacity for creativity, innovation, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Below is rare Cape Romano Dome House picture. It features a young Cristina Nabozny standing in front of the structure when it was still on land. The image captures a unique piece of architecture that has fascinated many over the years. The fact that it also includes a crew member from Everwater Charters adds an interesting personal touch to the photo.
For all you curious explorers out there, we recommend taking a guided boat tour to Cape Romano Island. At low tide, you can see the tops of the Dome house partially submerged underwater.
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