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If you’ve ever dreamed of adding extra living space without the headaches of a full home build, these futuristic backyard pods might catch your eye.
Designed to be permit-friendly, fast to install, and surprisingly versatile, Zomes are a unique take on small-scale living that sits somewhere between a tiny house, a modern shed, and a high-design studio space.
Images: Zomes
Let’s take a closer look.
What Is a Zome?
A Zome is a prefabricated, modular backyard structure built using structural insulated panels (SIPs) arranged in a geometric, almost dome-like shape. The result is a compact building that’s strong, energy-efficient, and visually striking.
Images: Zomes
Unlike many tiny homes, Zomes are not built on wheels. Instead, they’re designed to be placed on a non-permanent foundation such as a deck or slab, which helps simplify zoning and permitting in many areas.
Why Zomes Are Gaining Attention
Zomes have been featured in outlets like Forbes, Dwell, Fast Company, and Business Insider, largely because they check several boxes that today’s homeowners care about:
- Minimal footprint
- Quick installation
- Flexible use cases
- Modern, design-forward aesthetics
Images: Zomes
For people who want more space—but not more house—this is a compelling option.
Common Uses for a Zome
One of the biggest advantages of a Zome is how adaptable it is. These structures are commonly used as:
- Home offices (especially for remote work)
- Art or music studios
- Guest rooms
- Backyard Airbnbs
- Kids’ playrooms
- Wellness spaces (yoga, meditation, sauna lounges)
- Pool houses or backyard retreats
Because they’re insulated, wired for electricity, and optionally climate-controlled, they’re usable year-round in most climates.
Available Sizes & Pricing
Zomes currently come in three sizes, each designed to fit different needs and budgets:
ZomePod
- 120 sq ft
- Starting around $19,950
- Ideal for offices, meditation rooms, or creative studios
ZomeOffice
- 170 sq ft
- Starting around $22,950
- A solid middle ground for workspaces or guest rooms
ZomeStudio
- 300 sq ft
- Starting around $29,950
- Best suited for Airbnb use, full studios, or multi-purpose living
Pricing varies depending on options like windows, insulation upgrades, AC, soundproofing, and finishes.
Construction & Materials
Zomes are built using magnesium oxide (MgO) panels, which offer several benefits:
- Fire-resistant (rated up to extreme temperatures)
- Resistant to mold, pests, and moisture
- Non-toxic and low-VOC
- Highly insulated for energy efficiency
The geometric design also helps distribute structural loads evenly, making them surprisingly sturdy in high winds and snow.
Do You Need a Permit?
This depends on your local jurisdiction—but many Zome owners report that permits are not required when the structure is:
- Under a certain square footage
- Built on a non-permanent foundation
- Classified as a shed or auxiliary structure
That said, zoning laws vary widely, so it’s always smart to check with your local building department before ordering.
Assembly & Setup
One of the most appealing aspects of a Zome is how quickly it can go up.
- Delivered as a kit
- No heavy machinery required
- Typically assembled by 2–3 people over a weekend
- Electrical is plug-and-play
- Plumbing is optional (and usually owner-installed)
Compared to traditional construction, this is about as simple as it gets.
Is a Zome a Tiny House?
Not exactly.
Zomes aren’t designed as full-time dwellings with kitchens and bathrooms (though some owners get creative). Instead, they shine as secondary spaces—perfect for people who want more room to work, create, host, or escape without expanding their main home.
Videos
Want to see Zomes in action?
Zomes overview:
Highlights
- Zomes are prefab, modular backyard structures, not traditional tiny houses
- Designed for offices, studios, guest spaces, Airbnbs, and retreats
- Built with energy-efficient SIP panels and MgO materials
- Available in multiple sizes (120–300 sq ft) with fast installation
- Often permit-friendly due to non-permanent foundations
- A modern alternative for people who want more space without a renovation
Final Thoughts
Zomes won’t be for everyone—but for the right person, they’re a smart and stylish solution.
If you’ve been considering:
- A backyard office
- An Airbnb side hustle
- A creative retreat
- Or simply a quiet place of your own
…these futuristic pods are worth a closer look.
They’re fast, flexible, and far more thoughtfully designed than the average backyard shed.
Would you use one as a home office, guest space, or something else entirely?
Learn more
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This post may contain affiliate links & sponsored content.
Alex
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