SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION
SPIRITUAL RETREAT SARAH GORDON BUDAPEST STUDIO 2012-2013 MAJOR PROFESSOR : DR. PETER MAGYAR
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
48 CONCLUSION
42 FINAL DESIGN
32
PROCESS
26
APPROACH
12
PRECEDENTS
SITE ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
02 80
INTRODUCTION
THE PROJECT The Spiritual Retreat at the Castle-District in Budapest is a thesis project for the Masters of Architecture Program at Kansas State University. The project is located in the capital of Hungary, a country located in central Europe. The Castle District sits high atop a hill overlooking the Danube River and the city of Budapest. In light of today’s fast-paced, modern society, a place of solitude and separation from the chaos of the city is necessary. A spiritual retreat is a place for inner reflection and contemplation as well as meditation and prayer. Spirituality can be part of an organized religion or a simple reflection of experiences and their meanings. The first semester was spent exploring, researching, and discovering the various meanings of spirituality. We gathered information about the culture and life in Budapest and used this information to create a schematic design of a spiritual retreat. Second semester was spent developing the design from our research and explorations into a place that stimulates spirituality and reflection based on our definitions of spirituality.
2
Budapest is the capital of Hungary, a small country located in central Europe. It is the largest city in Hungary and is located in the northern portion of the country. In 1241, Pest, the oldest portion of the city, was invaded, resulting in a new city being built on the opposite side of the Danube River. It was built on a hill and protected by ramparts in order to defend it from future attacks. The royal castle was built on the Southern end and the town was built to the north. The city has endured many conflicts throughout the years that have determined its present form. Buda Castle was invaded by the Turks and recaptured by Christian armies in 1681 and the Hungarian War of Independence led to the castle being besieged again in 1849 before an independent government was created in 1867. During the Second World War Russian Troops sieged from December of 1944 to February of 1945. The Soviet Red Army eventually liberated the capital but the Castle District suffered enormous damage. This damage is still evident today and pays tribute to the history that has formed the unique culture that Budapest possesses.
HISTORY
4
The city of Budapest embraces today’s modern culture while keeping in mind the importance of their history and the events that have led up to their current status. Part of the city’s uniqueness is derived from being divided by the Danube River; a series of bridges act as a connecting infrastructure between the Buda and Pest sides. The city is often referred to as the city of bridges because of this distinctive trait. Many streets are cobblestoned and some are strictly for pedestrian use. They are often lined with cafes and restaurants that have quaint outdoor seating for visitors and citizens alike. The city is a mixture of old architecture, some still showing the evidence of war, and modern structures, which together create a vibrant urban environment. The local citizens of Budapest are passionate about their country’s history. They celebrate this passion with festivals, music, and art throughout the year. The city is transformed at the end of each day as the sun goes down. At night the monumental buildings and infrastructure of the city light up, causing the city to come alive with a unique energy not found anywhere else.
CULTURE
6
In the fall we were given the opportunity to take a short trip to Budapest. Experiencing the city, having the opportunity to touch, taste, see, hear, and smell the culture, was an irreplaceable experience. Interacting with the locals and having the opportunity to see the rich architecture proved to be beneficial during the design process. We were able to identify the needs, experience the unique qualities of the city, and learn about the history in order to design for the people. While in Budapest we made a visit to our site in the Castle District. This led to a better understanding of the environment and surrounding context of the site. Images in books cannot fully portray the experience of being in a place and witnessing the sights and sounds personally.
TRIP TO BUDAPEST
8
THE CITY Budapest is a modern city that respects its heritage. The city has a mixture of new and old architecture throughout that creates a diverse environment. It is continuously adapting to modern technologies.
MARGARET ISLAND The island is located in the Danube River, between Buda and Pest. It is mainly covered by landscape parks and is a popular place for recreational activities. It is the location of various sports establishments such as a water park, a tennis stadium, athletics center, and a track that runs the perimeter of the island. SZECHENYI BATH The bath is one of the largest in Europe and has numerous warm and cold baths in both the interior and exterior. Guests have access to massages, saunas, and many other amenities.
TRIP INSPIRATION
CHAPEL: PURIST SCHOOL The existing structure and detail was preserved. The furniture was modernized (pews, altar, etc) and small pendant lights were added that appear to be floating in the space.
PURIST SCHOOL A gymnasium was built in the existing courtyard of the original building. A separation between the original building and the gym was created to keep the integrity of the building.
ST MATTHIAS CATHEDRAL The Cathedral has colored roof tiles that can also be seen on other buildings throughout Budapest. This detail creates uniqueness and adds life to the buildings.
10
SITE ANALYSIS
SITE FACTS The site for our project is located in the Castle District of Budapest. The Castle District is located on the Buda side of the city and was built on a hill for protection from invasion. The area directly surrounding our site consists of governmental buildings such as the President’s House and Buda Castle. The District consists of mostly residential buildings on the outskirts, with shops, cafes, and churches intermixed. Beautiful panoramic views can be seen from all sides of Castle Hill including the Danube River and Pest, as well as the surrounding mountains. Depending on the time of year, the environment around the site can be lively and energetic due to festivals and peak tourism season. Off-season creates a calmer, more peaceful environment for locals and visitors. The Castle District is a key location for a spiritual retreat. It acts as an escape from the busy city and provides an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to escape from the challenges of reality and to experience growth in their spirituality.
12
LOCATION
DANUBE
RIVER
BUDA
PEST
14
LOCATION
16
CASTLE DISTRICT
18
01 03
02
05 04
SITE CONTEXT
01
03
02
04
SURROUNDING CONTEXT OF SITE Shops and Residences 01 National Dance Institute 02 St. Sigismund Ruins 03 Royal Palace 04 Sรกndor Palace 05
05 20
01 02
SITE CONTEXT
Original Ministry of Defense Building
01
Existing Ministry of Defense Building
01
EXISTING CONTEXT ON SITE Ministry of Defense 01 Church Ruins 02
02 22
TRANSPORTATION
Vehicular Bus TRANSPORTATION Foot Traffic Vehicular & Bus Funicular
Funicular
Foot Traffic
24
PRECEDENTS
INSPIRATION Precedent studies are valuable for researching building types, programmatic needs, infrastructure, and materiality as they relate to the design process. Designers can study these projects to gain knowledge and expertise and to see how these projects function as a built entity. Positive aspects that function well can be taken and adapted into other projects while negative aspects can be seen as examples of what to avoid and improve upon.
26
dRMM Architecture The Sliding House is a rural house in Suffolk, England that consists of a sliding structure that fits over the linear static main house, guest house, and greenhouse. The mobile walls and roof move along rails that are recessed into the ground. The sliding element creates shifting outdoor living areas between the static elements. The sliding element transforms the interior and exterior spaces through the use of changing light conditions and altering views. The materiality consists of mainly of steel and timber construction.
THE SLIDING HOUSE
SUFFOLK, ENGLAND
28
Daniel Bonilla Arquitectos The chapel is a simplistic, orthogonal design with clean lines and simple connections that can be transformed from a small, intimate space into a large public space. Large doors convert the chapel from a still volume to a mobile space. It symbolizes a passage between the known and the unknown, light and darkness, sacred and secular. The design interacts with the environment and allows natural light and air movement into the building. The rigid structure of the chapel is stone while the mobile body is steel, glass, and wood.
PORCIĂšNCULA DE LA MILAGROSA CHAPEL
LA CALERA, COLOMBIA
30
APPROACH
INITIAL THOUGHTS Designing a retreat that emphasizes the transformation of the body, mind, and soul implies several factors to be considered. A retreat should provide opportunities for guests to be transformed holistically so the inclusion of not only a spiritual sector but also spaces for the transformation of the body and mind are important.
32
?
What is a spiritual retreat?
What is included in a spiritual retreat?
How do we create an environment of seclusion in the midst of a touristic area?
PROBLEM
How do we design a Spiritual retreat to adequately fit into the historical context of the Castle District?
What is the purpose of a spiritual retreat?
How do you transform an existing structure on the site into a modern functioning element?
A spiritual retreat can be a place for solitude and seclusion as well as fellowship and community. It is a place for prayer, mediation, reflection, and contemplation. A spiritual retreat can include programmatic elements such as a spa, an education center, spiritual elements such as a chapel and spaces for prayer and meditation, and a hotel and restaurant for guests so they can stay at the retreat, away from the secular environment.
A separation between the sacred and the secular environments need to be created so that the retreat is an environment of peace and seclusion.
SOLUTION
The design should highlight the historical value of the district. It should be innovative yet simplistic so as to not compete with the surrounding historical fabric.
A retreat is a place that stimulates a transformation of the mind, body, and soul and inspires a person to pursue their faith and a deeper understanding of the unknown. The existing building is an important element to be preserved because of its role in the history of the Castle District. It creates a connection with the surrounding context. The exterior walls of the structure can be maintained while the interior can be transformed into new spaces required for the retreat.
34
SPIRIT Spiritual Discernment Divine Wisdom Spiritual Strength Faith Revelation
MIND
BODY
Intellect Free Will Personality Feeling and Emotion Understanding Knowledge
Sight Hearing Taste Touch Smell
SPIRITUALITY
Spirituality can be defined differently, depending on the individual person. Some perceive it as an organized religion with related beliefs and regulations that emphasize community and fellowship. Spirituality can also be defined as simply reflecting on meanings and personal belief about life and a connection to a greater entity. It has a key role in transforming lives by giving people a better understanding of something greater than themselves. It is a connection to a larger reality that brings peace and promotes a better understanding of life.
36
TRANSFORM
Transformation can be stimulated through the use of light, symbolism, connections, and transitions. A relationship between nature and the built environment can create both energy and peace in a hectic, fast-paced society. Modifiable spaces create dynamic environments that inspire change. A spiritual retreat should be a place that stimulates a transformation of the mind, body, and soul. The design should reflect this through the use of light, the relationship to nature, and the availability of spaces for group interaction and private reflection.
38
Lobby/ Reception______________________________________5635 sf Lobby & Lounge Check -In Desk Cultural Center
Hotel_________________________________________________8490 sf Twenty-one Guest Rooms Laundry Facility
Cafe/ Restaurant_______________________________________6460 sf Shared Kitchen Cafe Restaurant
Spa__________________________________________________5230 sf Locker Rooms Massage Rooms Pool Area Sauna
Educational Facility____________________________________ 5014 sf Lecture Hall Four Classrooms Library
Chapel_______________________________________________ 9820 sf Body Outdoor Park Area/ Ruins
Service Spaces_________________________________________3346 sf Storage and Mechanical Bathroom
Administrative Offices__________________________________1586 sf
PROGRAMMING
TOTAL: 59,706 sf
EXISTING BUILDING
EDUCATION CENTER
SPA
Spirituality affects not only the soul but the mind and body as well. It is important to provide spaces in a retreat that stimulate holistic change. A spiritual retreat should stimulate a complete transformation of an individual. Spaces for the renewal of the mind that inspire knowledge, understanding, and contemplation should be provided. This includes classrooms, a lecture hall, a library, and study areas. The inclusion of a spa and yoga studios allow guests to unwind and rejuvenate while working towards a healthier body. A chapel and exterior seating areas can be used for prayer, private reflection, and group fellowship. A hotel and restaurant give guests the opportunity to stay at the retreat to experience seclusion and to avoid the distractions of the city.
CHAPEL
40
PROCESS
PRELIMINARY IDEAS A retreat should be a place of seclusion that offers opportunities and spaces for people to be transformed into a person that has a better understanding of spirituality of the mind, body, and soul. The retreat should be separate from the secular environment surrounding the site but should also successfully adapt to the neighboring urban context. The retreat should be a place of relaxation to relieve stress. Further it is a place designed to recharge a person to be better prepared to manage the daily trials of life, as well as a place to grow spiritually and leave with a better understanding of themselves and their faith.
42
SECULAR
MIND
BODY
SOUL
SECULAR
SACRED
FIRST SEMESTER
44
SECULAR
MIND
BODY
SECULAR SOUL
-
SACRED
SECOND SEMESTER
46
FINAL DESIGN
FINAL PROPOSAL The Budapest Spiritual Retreat is located in the Castle District of the Hungarian capital. The retreat is a place of transformation for the body, mind, and soul. The architecture and simplicity of form which unfolds as it moves along the site creates moments of private seclusion and group interaction. The rich history of the site is evident in the preservation of the existing Ministry of Defense Building and the ruins of an ancient church. The relationship between the new and the old, and the natural and the built environment, support the retreat as a place of spiritual transformation.
48
POOL
EXTERIOR POOL AREA
Creates a sense of enclosure for the pools and gives the patrons additional privacy and day lighting control apart from the louver system in place.
Gives guests access to fresh air without direct sun exposure. Generates a relationship between the interior and exterior environments.
MOBILE ELEMENTS
EXTERIOR SEATING
CHAPEL
The exterior seating acts as a connection between the natural and built environment. The mobile element also serves as a connecting element between the chapel and the other programmatic elements of the design.
Creates a small, intimate space for private services in the chapel. Produces a sense of isolation and separation from the other elements of the retreat.
50
SITE PLAN
Transformation can be stimulated through the use of light, symbolism, connections, and transitions. Some components of the design can be moved to create changing environments. They can be transformed from small and intimate to large and inviting spaces that form a connection with nature. This relationship with nature is created through large doors that open to the exterior allowing natural light to enter the space and guest interaction with the outdoor environment. Movable elements of different scales - window coverings that glide along a track, sliding doors, and a large mobile element- support the concept of transformation throughout the design. The mobile element acts as both a connection and separation between the Chapel and the rest of the design. The movable element symbolizes importance and creates changing environments. When utilized it creates smaller, private spaces of seclusion. The retreat is a place for guests to come and be transformed spiritually to better understand themselves and their faith. The design is simplistic as to not distract the visitors from their spiritual experience. This allows them to focus on meditation, prayer, and contemplation as they are transformed mentally, physically, and spiritually.
52
10
7
UP
8
6
9
UP
16
14
1
15 11
13 19
2
13 12
20
21
FIRST FLOOR
3
UP
18
4
UP
6 5
UP
17
EXISTING BUILDING 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
LOBBY RECEPTION GUEST LOUNGE STORAGE & MECHANICAL OFFICES MEETING ROOMS CULTURAL CENTER RESTAURANT CAFÉ KITCHEN
EDUCATION CENTER 11 12 13
ENTRY LIBRARY CLASSROOM
SPA 14 15 16 17 18
STORAGE & MECHANICAL MASSAGE ROOM MEN’S LOCKER ROOM WOMEN’S LOCKER ROOM POOLS
CHAPEL 19 20 21
PLATFORM BODY STORAGE
54
22
22 22
DN
22
25
22 DN
25 24
DN
22 23
SECOND FLOOR
22
22 DN
27
22
22
22
26
22
22
22 27
22
22
22
22
22 22
22
EXISTING BUILDING 22 23
GUEST ROOMS LAUNDRY & STORAGE
EDUCATION CENTER 24 25
LECTURE HALL CLASSROOMS
SPA 26 27
SAUNA YOGA STUDIOS
56
The threshold marks the boundary between the secular, governmental entities surrounding site, and the sacred environments The entrance courtyard runs through the site and acts as a connection between the surrounding areas on either side of the site. This creates a welcoming environment that draws in visitors to the retreat. It acts as a transition space from the busyness of the surrounding context and the serenity of the retreat.
TRANSITION
58
TRANSITION
60
The Ministry of Defense building is located on the northern portion of the site. It functions as the lobby with the reception and check-in desk, includes a restaurant and cafĂŠ, and also has a hotel for the guests. This allows guests to stay in the privacy of the retreat for an extended period of time so as to not be distracted by the city. There are hotel rooms that range from single to six person rooms and each room has an ensuite bathroom so as to maximize the privacy of guests. The restaurant and cafe serve organic, locally grown food to support the betterment of the body. The design maintains the exterior facades of the existing building while updating and modernizing the interior to create a functional space while maintaining the integrity of the building.
EXISTING BUILDING
62
EXISTING BUILDING
64
The Education Center stimulates the transformation of the mind. Included are a library, lecture hall, classrooms, and areas that can be used for private studying. The space is designed for guests to have the opportunity to learn in large and small group environments. The Education Center serves as a learning environment that facilitates a greater awareness of spirituality and faith. It allows guests to explore this faith in great depth because of the available resources.
MIND
66
MIND
68
In addition to the renewal of the mind and soul, the restoration of the body is also an important aspect of a full spiritual transformation. The spa stimulates a revitalization of the body. There is a pool area, sauna, massage rooms, and yoga studios that better the body. The spa cleanses and renews the body through rest and relaxation.
BODY
70
BODY
72
The chapel can be used for private prayer or small and large group services. A large door can be opened to create a relationship with the natural environment for large services or days with nice weather. This transforms the space from a smaller, dark, private space to a large and open area with access to natural light. A platform over the church ruins acts both as a separation and connection with the rest of the spiritual retreat. It also connects the old church with the new chapel.
SOUL
74
SOUL
76
MODEL
78
CONCLUSION
SYNTHESIS Designing a spiritual retreat has proved to be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Grasping the meaning of spirituality and transforming it into a programmatic entity that stimulates deeper thinking, contemplation, and prayer is no easy task. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to work on such a project. Though I have made great progress since the beginning of the year, there is always room for improvements. During my final critique the reviewers suggested overlapping the programming by creating transitions between spaces that subtly transform one space into another. Also suggested was the use of the same material for the exterior throughout the design, thereby causing the spaces to be more cohesive. These changes would make the concept of transformation more subtle, but still effective, throughout the design. Overall, this year has caused me to explore the meanings of spirituality and to form a greater understanding of how to create architecture that stimulates spiritual transformation.
80
Budapest, Hungary. Google MapsWeb. https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl. Budapest. Photograph. NetGuidesWeb. http://net-guide.hu/hu/budapest_downtown3. Chapa, Jorge. The Sliding House by dRMM. 2009. InhabitWeb. 15 May 2013. http://inhabitat.com/residence-sliding-house-drmm/. de Rijke, Alex. The Sliding House by DRMM. 2009. ChicTipWeb. http://www.chictip.com/green-design/the-sliding-house-by-drmm. Hands Holding Plant. N.d. Photograph. The Shape of FaithWeb. http://theshapeoffaith.org/2010/08/04/learning-to-wait/hands-holding-plant-2-4/. Hungary Map.Photograph. Coloring Pages 101Web. http://www.coloringpages101.com/printable_page/55385/Others/Hungary_Map2. Fonseca, Alberto . PorciĂşncula de la Milagrosa. Open BuildingsWeb. http://openbuildings.com/buildings/porciuncula-de-la-milagrosa-profile-5762/media#!buildings- media/14
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Map of Europe. 2010. Photograph. UML Course WikisWeb. http://ikesharpless.pbworks.com/w/page/13341787/Blank map of Europe for study reference. Our Spirituality. 2007. Photograph. Missionary Sister of Society of MaryWeb. http://www.smsmsisters.org/en/spirituality.asp. PorciĂşncula de la Milagrosa Chapel by Daniel Bonilla Architects. ArchiThingsWeb. http://www.archithings.com/porciuncula-de-la-milagrosa-chapel-by-daniel-bonilla-archi tects/2010/07/05. Ramsey, Derek . Monarch Butterfly. 2006. Photograph. Wikimedia CommonsWeb. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Monarch_Butterfly_Showy_Male_3000px.jpg. Spiritual Direction. Photograph. Charlotte Spirituality CenterWeb. http://charlottespiritualitycenter.org/.
82