Douglas 45 x 75 mm is the standard wood for making DreamDomes. It is wood that last for years an years with a nice warm appearance. A few DroomDomes are made of walaba lake wood from the Brokopondo lake in Surinam. This wood has been watering for more than 40 years. This is a bit more expensive than douglas but it is the best wood available. It results in a dome that can last for generations and is virtually maintenance free. If you have a nice pile of beams, we would be happy to turn it into a beautiful DroomDome. DroomDomes can be made of almost any kind of wood.
Two people can build a single framed DroomDome in about 5 hours. A double framed DrooDome can be build within a day. To place the cover, at least three people are needed for a short while to pull the cover over the dome frame. Building a DroomDome is about as complicated as building a more difficult IKEA cabinet. You don't have to be a professional to assemble a DreamDome. However, it is very wise to read the supplied instructions carefully.
No, the prices are without platform. The reason is that a platform can be made from very cheap and simple to very expensive and extensive. A groundsheet is the cheapest solution of all. DroomDome offers a platform that seeks the middle ground between very beautiful, practical and affordable. Just like for the DroomDome itself, you don't have to be a professional to assemble the kit.