First look: New KTC Exterior
Now that our “little Buddhist center that could” has begun its last push to raise the money needed to rebuild in the aftermath of a 2016 arson fire, we’re going to beging sharing “first looks” at our new 3-Dimensional architectural computer models.
Our incredible Columbus-based architectural team of Peter Macrae and Peter Lenz (who we call “Pete” and “Peter” to tell them apart) has taken the design originated by Wisconsin architect Keith Spruce and shaped it to meet Columbus city codes and add in features requested by the sangha.
To follow Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s request that we make our new home larger than the last, the design essentially doubles our floor space – from almost 5,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet. The split-level design includes a shrine room that will seat 100 on cushions and a community room that will accommodate a similar number of folks at tables and chars. An office and classroom wing to the west will give us a separate library, classroom, store space and children’s play area.
Our exterior, seen here in a birds’ eye view from the corner of Rich and Grubb streets looking west from Rich, will include a wheelchair access ramp (and circumambulation path, including a small stupa) and evergreen trees, and a pleasing stone and brick façade. Floor to ceiling windows on the south and north sides of the shrine room will let in light.
A cupola at the top of the building will a feature special Tibetan architectural element called a “sertö” or “golden vase” spire, symbolizing richness and goodness. Along the roof line, repeating white circles on a dark background represent another Tibetan architectural element known as “the moon,” which symbolizes the Buddha nature inherent in every being.
Tibetan Buddhist teachings say that seeing sacred art and symbols is uplifting for those who see them, even if they are not aware of the symbolis’ inner meaning. We can’t wait to share more 3-D drawings with you and will gradually share them over the time of our campaign. We expect that as our designs mature (these are just early drawings, produced for our recent meeting with Mayor Ginther and do not have all the final details), but we are sure you will be as excited as we are by the vision of a new home for Tibetan Buddhist dharma in Columbus!
While you’re admiring the view of our new temple, take a moment to send us a comment or an encouragement, and feel free to donate toward the accomplishment of this goal. Even small donations participate in the merit of the entire structure, and accumulate the virtue of providing a shelter for the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha in the city. May all be auspicious! And may all beings benefit ?
For many Columbus KTC visitors over the last two decades, Darrell Peters was their first meditation instructor. With kindness and patience, he helped orient new visitors and give an excellent introduction to the practice of meditation. He also served as a mentor for new meditators, helping them establish a daily practice.