Concept was to symbolise a flower. The proposal is a meditation space for the Art of Living foundation in Madurai. The idea was to design a meditation space which is not influenced by any artificial source for light or ventilation. Thereby it had to be naturally lit and ventilated at all times.

Double height circular hall with no walls but surrounded with arched shaped columns was proposed. To make use of the naturally occurring slope in the site topography the hall sits with 1/3rd of its height below the average ground level in the site.

The Complex houses a meditation hall, Public Park, housing quarters and large open landscape areas for practice of yoga / meditation. The challenge was to design tranquil spaces that coexist with the surrounding and its users.

The meditation hall is accessed on north and south by a ramp that sits on a three level stepped water cascade. To reach the ramp only accessed by foot the walkers have to go through a pathway that is purposely designed to cover larger grounds in the site to bring in the sense of place and its atmosphere before entering the hall. From inside the hall the inclined water effect of the cascade inspires the space with a water wall concept. The hall being open and naturally ventilated, the air flow above the cascade makes it cooler when it enters the hall. With local perennials circling the border of the hall, the cold air is naturally scented with local “Madurai Malli”.

The columns in the hall create a sense of continuity and loop thereby centering the focus inside the hall. The hall sits in the lowest region of the site but is the tallest seen from anywhere around the site.

The objective was to create a space which exist and works for its users. To keep it simple yet powerful in its purpose.