ARCHITECTURE

Competition entry_2025
Architectural Study: Diamantopoulou Maritina
Assistant: Meropi-Eleni Gkavogianni

TERRA-IGNIS-LUX
Flame(ignis) burns the material(terra) and becomes light(lux)
The project breathes new light to the ancient temple. The temple is repurposed into a meditation space of 3 levels, where a ritual is experienced in the soul and body.
TERRA
Approaching the temple, the guests walk into a path surrounded by thick vegetation, before reaching the plateau where the preparation circle is situated. This is the place to prepare themselves to become a part of a soul and body experience. Entering the temple, they meet the first level of the mediation ritual, a circular shallow pool of warm water, where they enter to cleanse their thoughts and balance their bodies heat. Right above the pool a meditation platform is existing to introduce newcomers to the ritual. In the middle of the platform an oculus brings light to the center of the pool.
IGNIS
With a cleansed mind they will stand into a semitransparent circle in the heart of the temple, where the meditation flame (Trataka) is burning. The main part of the group meditation ritual takes place around the flame.
LUX
Having conquered the main part of group meditation, each individual moves to the concluding part of the meditation ritual, in a confined and protected circle. The place of this circle is the converging point of the two temple axis, the build part and the 2 patios. Plenty of light goes through the glass roof and meets a vertical linear light at the center of the circle. This stage symbolizes the ultimate conquest of an individual's balance. The chancel and the 2 patios that accompany it, complete the experience of this more personal meditation part.

Inside the exterior walls of the convent, a system of glass walls and a flat roof are used as a minor addition that highlights the temple ruins. Within this space are developed the communal kitchen (9) dining room (10), lockers and restrooms (8). A narrow opening in the common wall link the meditation main area with the secondary spaces.
Several meditation spaces are offered in the outdoor yards, as well as the bell tower, for group or individual meditation.