Round spaces tend to spark curiosity and plenty of questions. People often wonder if they’re truly permanent, how they’re built, and what it’s like to live in one. The short answer? They’re as practical as they are beautiful.

At Smiling Woods Yurts, we’ve spent years designing and building round spaces that blend natural materials with lasting performance. Whether you’re imagining a cozy family home, a one-of-a-kind rental, or a purpose-built retreat, understanding how these homes work is the first step toward bringing your vision to life.

Here, we’re answering the questions we hear most so you can plan your project with confidence.

Are Round Spaces Permanent Structures?

Absolutely! Smiling Woods Yurts' round spaces are designed and built as permanent, code-compliant structures, not temporary shelters or fabric yurts. Each round space is constructed with precision-milled wood components and engineered systems that meet the same (and often higher) standards as traditional homes.

What makes them different isn’t how they’re built. It’s how much better they perform.

Engineered for longevity: Every structure is built from high-quality materials and designed to withstand decades of use, whether you’re in a coastal climate, mountain town, or somewhere in between.
Built to last: From the foundation to the roofline, round spaces are crafted for durability and energy efficiency.
Certified and compliant: Smiling Woods Yurts provides engineered plans to meet local building codes and works with clients through permitting to ensure everything passes inspection.

Unlike portable yurts or semi-permanent structures, these homes are built to stay. You can insulate them, wire them for electricity, add plumbing, and customize them just like any other high-quality home.

Do Round Spaces Meet Building Codes?

Yes. Every Smiling Woods Yurts space is fully engineered to meet or exceed local building codes. These are not semi-permanent structures; they’re carefully designed, structurally sound homes that comply with the same standards required for conventional construction.

Our team also works directly with homeowners, builders, and inspectors throughout the permitting process, providing any additional technical details needed for approval. Because round spaces are engineered as true residential structures, they can include:

Standard insulation and energy systems
Full electrical and plumbing integration
Traditional foundations and roofing materials
Compliance with residential, commercial, and energy-efficiency codes

Round spaces might look unconventional, but they’re every bit as code-compliant and permanent as any square or rectangular build. Just far more distinctive.

How Long Does It Take to Build a Round Space?

The timeline for building a Smiling Woods Yurts space depends on your project’s size and location. It also depends on how quickly you’re able to finalize your choices and pay your deposit. But generally, the process is much faster and smoother than most traditional home builds.

Here’s what the journey typically looks like:

1. Planning & Design

This phase includes design selection, customization, and engineering. You’ll work with our team to finalize your layout, materials, and project details. During this stage, we also prepare the plans you’ll need for permitting.

2. Permitting (Varies by Location)

Permitting timelines can differ based on your municipality, but our team provides the engineered documents and support you need to streamline the approval process.

3. Production & Delivery

Once your plans are approved and your full payment is received, your round space moves into production. Each component is precision-crafted and inspected at our facility before being prepared for shipment.

4. Construction

Depending on the size and complexity of your design, on-site assembly and finishing can take just 10 days. Many clients are surprised by how quickly their round space comes together once the build begins.

Because every project is unique, we recommend connecting early to secure your spot on the build schedule, especially as the year winds down.

If you place your deposit by October 31, 2025, you’ll lock in today’s pricing before rates increase on November 1, and you can still plan your build for 2026.

Whether you’re ready to start now or simply want to explore your options, we’ll help you create a timeline that fits your goals.

Are Round Spaces Energy Efficient?

Yes. Round spaces are naturally energy efficient by design. Their circular shape works with nature, not against it, creating an incredibly comfortable and efficient living environment.

Here’s why:

Less exterior surface area: A round space encloses more volume with less wall space than a rectangular structure. That means fewer areas for heat to escape in the winter or enter in the summer.
Better airflow and temperature balance: Air and energy circulate evenly in a round space, reducing hot and cold spots and helping your heating and cooling systems work more efficiently.
Strength and insulation: Smiling Woods Yurts uses precision-milled wood components and tight construction practices that prevent air leaks and drafts, maximizing energy retention.
Harmony with the environment: Round spaces are naturally aerodynamic, which helps them stand strong against wind and weather while minimizing heat loss from pressure differences.

And because every Smiling Woods Yurts space is built as a permanent, code-compliant structure, you can incorporate modern insulation, double-pane windows, solar panels, and other sustainable technologies seamlessly.

The result = a space that’s beautiful but also less expensive to heat and cool year-round.

What Climates Do Round Spaces Work Best In?

Round spaces perform exceptionally well in a wide variety of climates, from the snow-covered mountains of the Pacific Northwest to the warm, humid coasts of the Southeast. Their circular design naturally adapts to different environmental conditions, making them one of the most versatile building types available.

Here’s how they shine in different regions:

Cold or snowy climates: The curved roof and walls allow snow and ice to shed easily, reducing buildup and minimizing structural stress. The round shape also helps retain heat efficiently, so you stay warm even in the coldest months.
Windy or coastal areas: Round spaces are naturally aerodynamic. Instead of flat walls that resist and catch wind, their curved surfaces allow it to flow smoothly around the structure, greatly reducing pressure and the risk of damage.
Hot or sunny climates: The even exposure to sunlight prevents hot spots, while the efficient airflow and energy retention help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Pair that with good insulation and modern ventilation, and your home stays cool and efficient year-round.
Mixed or variable climates: Because round spaces use less exterior surface area per square foot, they’re easier to insulate and regulate in both hot and cold seasons. This makes them ideal for regions with wide temperature swings.

Every Smiling Woods Yurts space is engineered for structural integrity and energy performance, no matter where it’s built.

Can I Customize My Round Home?

Of course! Every Smiling Woods Yurts space can be fully customized to match your vision. While each design starts with our signature round structure, what happens inside (and around) that circle is entirely up to you.

Here’s how you can make it your own:

Choose your size and layout: From cozy single-room studios to expansive multi-level homes, our team helps you select or design the layout that fits your lifestyle or business needs.
Customize your finishes: Pick from a variety of natural wood tones, window placements, skylight options, and ceiling styles to create the look and feel you love.
Design for your use: A family home, a classroom, a yoga studio—whatever it is, we tailor each space for its intended purpose, maximizing light and functionality.

The round form provides a timeless foundation, and from there, your creativity defines the rest.

How Much Do Round Spaces Cost?

The cost of a Smiling Woods Yurts space depends on several factors, including size, layout, finishes, and site location. But what stays consistent is the long-term value and quality you receive.

While every project is unique, here’s what influences your investment:

Size and layout: Smaller round spaces or studios require fewer materials and less labor, while larger, multi-room designs naturally increase overall cost.
Level of customization: Custom windows, skylights, premium finishes, or multi-space builds can affect pricing depending on your design preferences.
Site conditions and location: Factors like foundation type, utilities, and accessibility can influence your total project budget.

The good news? You have complete control over your scope and timeline, meaning you can start with a design that fits your budget today and expand or enhance it later.

What Are the Next Steps If I’m Interested?

If you’ve been thinking about building a round space, now is the best time to start the process. With pricing set to increase soon, getting started before the deadline helps you save and secure your place on the 2025-2026 build schedule.

Here’s how to take the next step:

1. Reach out to our team

Share your project vision, location, and goals. We’ll walk you through design options and timelines that make sense for you.

2. Lock in 2025 pricing

Place your deposit by November 15, 2025, to secure the lowest pricing of the year, no matter when you plan to build.

3. Enjoy year-end savings

When you pay for your kit by December 31, 2025, you’ll receive a free ceiling and free storage until May 2026.

4. Plan your build timeline

Want to build this winter or wait until next spring? Our team will help you create a schedule that fits your needs.

Download our free guide to explore layouts, the building process, and what makes Smiling Woods' round spaces so unique: DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE

And if you still have questions, our team is always happy to help you plan your project and lock in 2025 pricing!

Get In Touch

Round Space FAQs: Answers to the Questions We Hear Most