SANCTUARIO: A PROPOSED ECO-SPIRITUAL RETREAT CENTER

Every year, millions of people around the world withdraw from their hectic routines for a week or two in an attempt to rest, rejuvenate, and recoup (Throne, 2016). These getaways range from family holidays to secluded exotic retreats. Retreats are purposeful escapes that let you unwind and reconnect your spirituality to God through recollection activities, mindful meditations, and inspirational masses. In the field of architecture, we may find ways to incorporate the built environment to the natural environment to create a harmonious effect that would bring an impact to its end users. The proposed Eco-Spiritual Retreat Center intended to provide the locality and adjacent municipalities a sanctuary for those who seek spiritual rejuvenation and reconnection through natural processes. The human body is designed to "heal itself" once we provide the 'necessary' tools and a healing environment. Our surroundings affect our physical and spiritual self. The proposed complex would cater all individuals ranging from students who annually perform retreat event as a class requirement, group of professionals who seek for a place to unwind from their busy schedules, and local tourists who look for a place to find their inner-peace. The complex is situated at the mountain-foot barangay of Malaoa, Tayabas City (City of Tayabas Profile, 2010). The selected site has an undulating to rolling terrain that is suitable for the proposed project because it will surely bring a natural and fresh ambience for the end-users. This thesis aimed to develop architectural designs that may provide an immediate and long lasting sanctuary of peace open to all individuals. In conclusion, this thesis sought to enhance the lives of end-users spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.