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Meditative Space with Controlled Light and Views of the Temple

Authors:
Junlin Li, Zeqi Zheng
Meditative Space with Controlled Light and Views of the Temple
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A consciously designed meditation room with controlled light offers uninterrupted views of the nearby Chuanzhu Temple, creating a tranquil residence for a lama couple that fosters spiritual practice and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central meditation room acts as the core of the residence.
02
Narrow windows frame specific views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Design avoids natural light to create a controlled atmosphere.
04
Located next to the significant Chuanzhu Temple.
05
Emphasizes connection between interior space and nature.

Pilgrimage of Light is a residential design located near the Chuanzhu Temple in Tibet, created as a home for a lama couple. The overall design concept brings together traditional Tibetan elements with modern touches, aiming to create a peaceful environment that supports meditation and spiritual practice. The residence seeks to provide comfort while fostering a strong connection to the surrounding natural landscape.

Meditation Space

At the core of the design lies a meditation room, purposefully placed in the center of the home. This space serves as a sanctuary for spiritual activities and represents the journey of pilgrimage, inviting both physical and inner exploration. The layout encourages movement upward through the building, allowing individuals to experience a sense of elevation and reflection as they ascend.

Visual Engagement

As occupants transition between the various levels, they encounter distinct visual perspectives that strengthen their connection to the environment. The bottom window connects to the lively energy of daily life, highlighting the dynamics of the world outside. In comparison, the middle window offers a serene view of the nearby Chuanzhu Mountain, fostering a calming atmosphere for introspection. At the highest level, the view of the Chuanzhu Temple reinforces the spiritual significance of the site.

Light Management

A key feature of the design is the conscious choice to limit natural light in the meditation areas. This decision aligns with the spiritual practices of the lamas, creating a consistent and controlled setting. Without the distractions that can come with changing light, the space supports deep meditation and focused reflection, allowing individuals to engage fully in their spiritual journey.

Material Influences

While specific materials are not highlighted in the project details, the design draws from the principles of traditional Tibetan architecture. It is likely that local stone, wood, and earth materials will be used, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage and environmental context. Such choices enhance the relationship between the building and its surroundings, blending the spiritual and natural worlds.

The design features a well-thought-out progression through space, encouraging movement and contemplative reflection. Each element is designed to enhance the meditative experience while creating a strong link between the inner sanctuary and the outer landscape.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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