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VARAX timber domes by Western Wood Structures are an attractive and economical design option for architects, engineers and owners needing an optimal solution when faced with the challenge of medium-to-large clear-span spaces.  VARAX domes designed and erected by WWS can span up to 600 feet.

The shape of the base from which they spring does not limit VARAX domes.  Though mostly circular, VARAX domes are designed to fit nearly any base configuration and display absolute balance, perfection of line, curve, volume, mass, elegance, and the profundity of endless space.

VARAX domes consist of a three dimensional grid system of intermeshing great circle ribs, with an optional steel plate tension ring around the base.  The steel hubs accommodate all glulam members and forces such as axial tension or compression, shears and moments.  The roof is typically sheathed with 2" T/G decking, allowing VARAX domes to be classified as Type IV Heavy Timber construction.

The VARAX domes featured below are a few examples of the timber domes designed and erected by Western Wood Structures.

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Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona, USA

Constructed in 1977, the "Skydome" at Northern Arizona University was the first major timber dome erected by Western Wood Structures.  It spans 502’.

This 132’ diameter dome encloses a municipal swimming pool.

Swimming Pool
Worland, Wyoming, USA

Gymnasium Dome
Ashiro, Japan

The 36.6m span on this VARAX dome was the first timber dome exported to Japan by Western Wood Structures.  It is designed for very heavy snow and seismic loads.

This VARAX dome, which spans 302’, is home to the University of Portland Pilots.  This multi-purpose facility gets heavy usage by the university as well as the community.

Chiles Center – University of Portland
Portland, Oregon USA

Columbia Park Pool Cover
Portland, Oregon USA

This 132’ span VARAX dome was constructed to enclose an outdoor pool owned by the City of Portland.  The glulam members and the decking are pressure treated to guarantee a long service life.

This non-spherical 140' x 220' VARAX dome was built to replace the original, air-supported, fabric-roof structure.

Charles Wright Academy
Tacoma, Washington USA

Tacoma Dome
Tacoma, Washington, USA

When erected in 1981, this 530’ diameter timber dome in Tacoma, Washington was the largest clear span wood roof structure ever built.

The Western Wood Structures front office reception area includes this 34' diameter VARAX dome.

WWS Home Office
Tualatin, Oregon USA