A vision and concept study for a new retreat centre in Sri Lanka, on a former tea plantation. The Temple of Tārā is a sanctuary for female empowerment, regenerative living and intercultural connection.
The initiator wanted to create a safe and transformative centre where local and international women could come together for tantra, yoga and education. The context is complex: a postcolonial society with inequalities, combined with the rapid growth of tourism. The centre needed to respond to both social inequality and ecological regeneration.
Protopia Studio designed the first concept sketches in close co-creation with the initiator. The concept includes a temple space for 50 people, nine cabins, an open-air restaurant and supporting facilities. It combines sacred geometry and Vastu Shastra with eco-building and permaculture. We also advised on the approach and acquisition of the land.
The vision makes concrete how regenerative architecture and social programming can strengthen each other. The Temple of Tārā shows how a retreat centre can act as a bridge between local and global contexts, strengthening communities while offering international visitors a deeper connection to land and culture. The project connects spiritual development, women's empowerment and regenerative principles in a holistic living and learning environment.