Fuller developed the geodesic dome, a lightweight, structurally efficient enclosure based on geodesic geometry. He received a patent for it in 1954.

Fuller built the first large-scale geodesic dome for the Ford Motor Company's Rotunda in Dearborn, Michigan. This project brought significant public attention to the dome's potential.

Geodesic domes were widely adopted for military radar enclosures (radomes) and industrial storage facilities due to their structural strength and ease of construction.

Fuller designed the iconic U.S. Pavilion at Expo 67 in Montreal, a large geodesic dome that became a symbol of innovation and architectural ingenuity. This project significantly enhanced his international reputation.