Rainbow igloos have become quite a phenomenon in recent years, captivating the imaginations of people around the world. These stunning structures, made with a mixture of ice and “snow cement,” are a testament to human creativity and ingenuity.
One individual who has mastered the art of building rainbow igloos is Matt Allred, an OB-GYN from Rexburg, Idaho.
In the winter of 2021-22, Matt Allred embarked on his second rainbow igloo project. Armed with around 500 ice bricks and an abundance of food coloring, he set out to construct a vibrant and towering creation. Through a captivating time-lapse video, Allred documented the entire process, making the ~40-hour build appear deceptively easy.
However, despite his experience, Allred encountered numerous challenges along the way. He admitted to making several mistakes that prolonged the construction process.
One of his errors was making the diameter of the igloo too wide. In hindsight, he wished he had stuck with a more manageable 7-9 foot diameter. The wider the igloo, the higher it needs to be, which resulted in him having to add an additional four rows of ice bricks.
Additionally, he overlooked checking the angle of the roof, leading to a sunken appearance on the east side of the igloo. To conceal this defect, he cleverly installed a chimney, which ended up adding a unique touch to the final design.
Allred’s video also provided a helpful supply list for aspiring rainbow igloo builders. One item on the list was 50-80 disposable aluminum trays. However, to make the construction process more sustainable, he suggested collecting used rectangular food containers throughout the year.
This could be done by reaching out to friends, family, and the local community, or saving containers from various occasions. Such a small effort could contribute to reducing waste and promoting eco-consciousness.
For those who prefer a different aesthetic, Allred demonstrated another option in his glowing 2022/23 igloo. This time, he opted for plain ice and snow, creating a mesmerizing structure with 350 ice bricks. However, to add a touch of magic, he incorporated LED lights on the inside, illuminating the igloo with a soft and enchanting glow.
Building rainbow igloos has undoubtedly become a remarkable way for individuals like Matt Allred to express their creativity during the winter months. These structures not only bring joy to the builders but also captivate the attention of passersby. They stand as a testament to the boundless possibilities that can be achieved when imagination meets practicality.
So, the next time you find yourself surrounded by a winter wonderland, why not try your hand at building a rainbow igloo and let your imagination run wild?
