With rising energy costs most people are looking for ways to save. For some those savings may come in the form of a dome. It seems cutting corners can create a safer and more energy efficient home.

they say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Domes can be downright gorgeous if you value strength and energy conservation.

The savings come from the dome's unique design. They’re made from a combination of polyurethane foam, rebar and concrete. It’s a great combination of insulation and strength.

With walls a foot thick domes make the most of your energy dollar. They stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Hurricanes and tornados are another reason domes make sense. They easily withstand 140 mile-per-hour winds. That’s because there aren’t any sharp corners to catch strong gusts.

Additionally domes are just downright strong. Domes can be used for more than just housing. Some have been turned into schools, gymnasiums even churches.

A school district near Dallas recently built a state-of-art multi-purpose dome. It’s used for sporting events and assemblies. It also serves as the community's tornado shelter.

Domes cost 10 to 15 percent more than traditional homes. Should you ever want to sell your home sweet dome determining its value could be tricky. Chances are it’ll be the only one in the neighborhood.