How to Build a Yurt?

Whether you're drawn to a simpler life or just want a weekender or off-grid retreat, it helps to understand the build before you buy. We've designed our yurts so anyone willing to roll up their sleeves can put one up. No tradies required, just some friends, basic tools and our step-by-step guidance.

Can you build a yurt yourself?

Yes. When people hear "build your own structure" they picture blueprints and specialist skills, but a yurt kit is refreshingly straightforward. We know because we did it. Our family lived off-grid in an 8m yurt for over four years, and we have refined our designs for Australian and New Zealand conditions ever since.

All you need is:

• A solid, level foundation (a timber deck, concrete slab or steel frame)
• Basic tools you probably already have
• A few friends to help. It is the perfect excuse for a working bee.

What do you need before you start?

Three things: the deck, the tools and the people.

• The deck. It should be the same diameter as the yurt, level and solid. We share free decking plans for every size, and our yurt platform guide covers materials and footings.
• Tools. A cordless drill and driver, ladders (two is better), a tape measure, a rubber mallet and a stanley knife cover most of it.
• People. Plan on four to six adults for the roof stage. The rest can be done with two or three.

What are the five stages of building a yurt?

Every yurt goes up in the same order.

1. Creating your circle

The wall goes up as fixed, curved lattice panels with strong timber frames, standing in a circle on the deck with the door frame set in. The round shape is efficient, with no wasted corners.

2. Raising the dome

The rafters go from the top of the wall to the crown, and the space suddenly feels open and roomy. This is the stage where the extra hands earn their lunch.

3. Adding weather protection

The liner, insulation and outer cover go on in layers. This is what makes a yurt so much more than a tent, keeping you comfortable through hot summers and cool winters.

4. Installing doors and windows

These add security, natural light and airflow.

5. Making it your own

Flooring, furniture, heating and power. From yoga studios to glamping stays, creative workspaces to guest rooms, this is where it becomes yours.

How long does it take to build a yurt?

About 2 to 3 days with friends once the deck is ready, depending on size and experience. Some real examples:

• Flora Swift put up her yurt in Tasmania in about two days with six friends.
• Cara McKie built her 8m ORON in Country Victoria over one weekend.
• The Munoz family built their 8m ORON in the Northern Rivers, NSW themselves in a couple of days.
• Tanya Green's 8m ORON in the Perth Hills, deck included, was built by our team in 5 days.

Is building an ORON different from a standard yurt?

The steps are the same. The parts are different. A standard yurt usually has a light lattice and rafters, so it is easy to carry. The ORON frame is full timber and 60% heavier, so the roof stage needs a few more hands. See what is a yurt made of for every part.

Why do our customers love building their own?

The circular space flows naturally, and the dome ceiling gives headroom that surprises most first-time builders. A yurt can also change with you: it can be taken down and moved, or joined by another yurt or dome later.

What help do we give you?

Download our Buyer's Guide for $500 off your purchase. Every client gets our free decking plans for their size and our installation videos to follow along. If you would rather not build it yourself, ask us about our install team. Questions? Email hello@yurtinthedirt.com.au or call +61 489 269 088.