In the heart of India, nestled in the serene town of Dharampur, lies a remarkable architectural marvel that marries spirituality with contemporary design. Inspired by the fabled Jain temple Samavasarana, Serie Architects embarked on a transformative journey to create the Raj Sabhagruh—an ambitious complex that serves as a beacon of tranquility and enlightenment.
The Raj Sabhagruh, spanning an impressive 16,000 square meters, stands as a testament to divinity and grandeur. Anchoring the Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, this architectural gem is surrounded by sprawling gardens, a public plaza, an amphitheater, a large dining hall, and a Jain temple—all harmoniously integrated to create a holistic spiritual experience.
At the heart of the complex lies a 300-seat meditation hall, symbolizing the culmination of knowledge and the journey towards enlightenment. Each of the building’s 13 levels is carefully rotated 45 degrees, creating a dynamic and fluid architectural narrative that reflects the gradual progression towards spiritual awakening.
One of the most striking features of the Raj Sabhagruh is its unique design approach. By eschewing traditional columns in favor of interconnected concrete walls, the architects have created a space that allows natural light to filter through, enhancing the building’s sense of openness and expansiveness. The exterior, clad in over 800,000 hand-cut marble bricks sourced from nearby Rajasthan, exudes a luminous quality that is both striking and environmentally conscious.
Christopher Lee and Kapil Gupta, Principals at Serie Architects, share their journey of exploration and discovery in crafting this sacred space. “We tested several iterations exploring typologies of sacred form,” they explain. “There was a deep desire to find an architecture that was contemporary, memorable, and timeless, that could serve as a signifier for a young, growing Ashram.”
The result is a structure that encapsulates a sense of tranquility and inner peace, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. As Serie Architects aptly puts it, the Raj Sabhagruh is not just a building—it is a place for the acquisition of knowledge and inner spiritual experience.
To delve deeper into the transformative story of the Raj Sabhagruh and experience its serene beauty firsthand, visit the Serie Architects website. Join us on this journey of architectural wonder and spiritual discovery, where tradition meets innovation, and divinity meets design.
