Tropical Ontario Airbnb offers a Caribbean-like warm stay

A Burlington farm has converted a 500-square-foot geodesic greenhouse dome into a tropical-themed Airbnb with plants, an indoor pond and a nearby private bathroom. The owner says the dome heats in sunlight and uses fans, geothermal piping and other systems to keep temperatures comfortable even in subzero outdoor weather.

Subzero temperatures in Ontario have left many people thinking about warmth. In Burlington, Grindstone Creek Farm now offers a tropical-themed stay inside a 500-square-foot geodesic dome greenhouse. Owner Amber Warren bought the dome early in the pandemic and converted it from a greenhouse into a living space because farming limits the family's travel. The dome sits between pastures and is decorated with tropical plants and an indoor pond with fish and turtles. Details: - Location: Grindstone Creek Farm in Burlington, Ontario, set between two pastures with farm animals. - Space and layout: A 500-square-foot geodesic dome fitted with a queen bed, a pull-out couch, dining and living areas, and a kitchenette. - Bathroom and additions: A private three-piece bathroom was added a short walk from the dome along a private path. - Climate control: The dome’s translucent walls let sunlight warm the interior; the owner reports temperatures can reach around 30 degrees Celsius in sun even during very cold outdoor conditions. Fans, solar exhaust fans, an air-conditioning unit, geothermal piping in garden beds, space heaters and a heat pump are used to manage temperature. - Atmosphere: The interior is decorated with tropical plants and an indoor pond, which the owner says adds thermal mass and helps stabilize temperature. - Farm access and booking: Guests can interact with animals including goats, highland cows, horses, sheep, poultry and pigs; the dome is intended for up to four people and stays are available through Airbnb. Summary: The converted dome provides a warm, tropical-themed indoor retreat on a working farm and includes on-site animal interactions. The owner describes several systems and features that keep the space warm in sunlight and manage overheating, and bookings are available through Airbnb.