Here's Everything You Need to Know About Bubble Houses

From squiggly furniture to blob-shaped rugs, it’s clear that curves are making a comeback in design. Bubble houses in particular have been, and continue to be, a fascination when it comes to architecture.

The amorphous structures are instantly eye-catching—and have caught attention across the world since their inception in the 1940s.

Curious to know more? Read on to learn more about the history of this fun architectural style, how bubble homes are made, and the famous ones that still exist today.

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Bubble homes, also known as airform homes, were first invented by California architect Wallace Neff. After designing homes for the Hollywood elite, he sought a more affordable housing option during the post-war housing shortage. So, in 1944, the first bubble home came to be.

Neff used a technique called airform—which made it possible to construct the homes quickly; in fact, in just 48 hours. 

It’s safe to say bubble homes were part of the modernist movement, which occurred from the 1930s to the 1960s in the United States.

The era was defined by the abandonment of overly lavish interiors, emphasizing the functionality of design.

Bubble homes fit the bill: they were inexpensive to build since they involved minimal construction and they were made of gunite, a material that could theoretically last for decades since it is twice as strong as concrete. 

The idea of bubble houses started to grow in popularity and eventually made its way overseas in later decades—with notable homes built in France, Austria, and the Netherlands by various designers.

Eric Robert / Getty Images

Bubble houses were initially made through a process called airform. Using this technique, builders pour concrete into a