CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

The Spiritual Retreat into Enlightenment’s design is inspired by the characteristics of komorebi, the Japanese word for the interplay between light and leaves when sunlight shines through trees. Komorebi produces similar effects to those who view it to worshipers of Buddhism and their journey to enlightenment. This concept will drive the layout of the space and the feelings it influences, and the literal meaning of komorebi. “Ko” meaning tree in Japanese will be represented in the front of the space where an open protruding trellis flanked by trees will be present. This will guide the worshiper to the front entrance of the shrine while connecting them to nature and the present moment. The front of the Buddhist center includes the library and front desk which will ground the worshipers with Buddhist teachings before entering the shrine. “More” meaning something that comes through, will influence the shape of the path, providing worshipers the option to walk through the Zen garden, leading them to the worship space. “Bi” which means sun, will directly influence the worship space as it represents the highest level of the Buddhist center and symbolizes enlightenment.