Circle monks cell

Monk Cell Project

The formal structure of the Monk’s Cell articulates the daily routine of the monk and so supports his practice of the Buddhist teachings. It is designed to create an atmosphere conducive to the monk’s practice of noble conduct. The circular form allows for continuous walking meditation, but also functions as a symbol of the 24-hour cycle of the practice schedule.
• First period, from 04:00 to 12:00: After waking up, during chanting, meditation, and the daily meal, a single wall to the East shields the monk from the morning sun.
• Second period, from 12:00 to 20:00: During the time for studying the Buddha’s teachings, the simple roof overhead shields the monk from the daytime sun.
• Third period, from 20:00 to 04:00: Chanting and meditation takes place in a space exposed to the elements, and the monk then sleeps under the hanging mosquito net umbrella.
The daily routine is expressed naturally by the design of the building. The circular form allows for precise directional siting of the building. The primary structural material is steel, and the color follows that of the monk’s robes.

Structure of the building : Structure steel - frame, Painted cement board, Plastered concrete

Principal Exterrior Material : Painted cement board, Plastered concrete

Principal Interior Material : Painted cement board, Plastered concrete

Chief architect
Suriya Umpansiriratana, Kyai Nuichan

Advisors
Buddhism
- Venerable P.Yanasobhano
- Venerable Mahatong Dhamavudho

Consultancy
- Apichart Puemsagul

Structural Engineer
-Tanya Ongsiriporn

Project team
- Anan Yuenprakon
- Natapon Nimlamai
- Pirak Anurakyawachon
- Panicha Bhusarakumtrakul

Circle monks cell by Suriya Umpansiriratana in Thailand won the WA Award Cycle 8. Please find below the WA Award poster for this project.