[3] They are adobe structures, a variant of cob, and are in the catenary arch form, which can bear maximum weight with the minimum use of building materials.

Ronald Rael, an architect and author of the book entitled Earth Architecture, has observed that the Musgum houses are of "a catenary arch—the ideal mathematical form," which can withstand the load of the building with minimum use of material.

[8] Because of the inverted form of an arc of a chain, the domes are slim and work on the principle of compression providing rigidity to the structure without any twisting or bending moments.

The geometric patterns on the exterior face of the domes provide a foothold for workers who stand on them during construction and also during subsequent maintenance.

A small circular opening at the top of the huts also helps with air circulation and is used as an escape hatch if subjected to flooding.

[3][9] This circular opening, a few inches in diameter, also known as a smoke hole, is closed with a slab or a pot during the rains to prevent water entering the house.

[1] Toleks form part of a complex of housing units, granaries, and a central courtyard enclosed within a thatched compound wall.