Eco styled accommodation domes created by international designers offer an innovative escape at the recently launched Cross Hill Lodge and Domes at Lake Hawea.

Owners Sarah and Richard Burdon say the complex offers a new concept in staycations close to Queenstown, being only a one-and-a-half-hour drive from the resort.

“We all need to get away from our familiar surroundings from time to time and immerse ourselves somewhere new. Our six eco domes are nestled on the hill in their own exclusive area with private access entranceways.They were designed by world-renowned dome designers Buckminster Fuller,” says Sarah. 

“You can’t buy them off the shelf like this.  We purchased these unique dome shell liners from suppliers Pacific Domes and then set about building each one. We designed and constructed the decks, interior bathrooms and kitchens to create a bespoke eco dome experience with the design based on a high-country theme.”

 The entrepreneurial couple’s new venture is located within the park life surroundings of The Camp at Lake Hawea close to their other property Glen Dene Station.

“The domes have an amazing architectural aesthetic and are super quirky. Each has a 40 sqm interior and a 30 sqm deck along with an ensuite facility and they are fitted out with beautiful, modern furnishings including cosy blankets and sheepskins.”

Chosen for their energy efficiency each dome is equipped with a gas fire and heat pump. 

The interiors have been curated by Sarah and are inspired by the local landscape to create a feeling of calm, warmth and relaxation. 

“When we first experienced staying in the domes while overseas we felt cocooned, safe and protected from the outside elements but the long and wide windows also allowed beautiful views of the stars at night,” she says. “They are perfect to relax in with the design bringing the outside environment inside letting guests absorb the surrounding natural landscape, mountains and forest. This is due to the dome’s round structure featuring floor to ceiling windows – the feeling and experience is out of this world.”

The Crossfit Lodge and Dome village accommodates up to 12 people and guests have exclusive access to the Cross Hill Lodge featuring an outdoor hot tub, indoor and outdoor dining and lounge area, massage room and the Whisky Room for pre or post dinner drinks.

“Our spring glamping rates start at $400 per dome which includes breakfast for two and we also offer a full package with dome accommodation, breakfast and dinner for two people at $750 per night,” says Sarah. “Crosshill is a wonderful place to spend time with family and friends and create some shared memories of this most spectacular area and special staycation experience.”