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TABLE OF CONTENTS

List of Figures
Thesis Abstract
Intro
Addictive Minds
Spiritual Recovery through Architecture
Site Analysis
Program Development
Turning Concept into Construction
Design Development
Final Design
Conclusion
Bibliography

1-4
6
9 - 10
13 - 24
25 - 36
37 - 46
47 - 62
63 - 76
77 - 84
85 - 114
115 - 118
119 - 120

LIST OF FIGURES
INTRO
1 . 1 page 9
Zen Symbol (http://www.calpoly.edu/~calpo
lyzen/Images/zen-symbol4_copy_vectorized.png)
ADDICTIVE MINDS
2 . 1 page 17
The Vicious Cyclde of Addiction
(Groman p. 299)
2 . 2 page 20
The Native American Healing Experience
(Coyhis p. 1935)
2 . 3 page 21
Traditional vs. Contemporary Values
(Coyhis p. 1936)
2 . 4 page 22
The Tweleve Teahings of the Wellbriety
Movement (Coyhis p. 1944)
SPIRITUAL RECOVERY THROUGH
ARCHITECTURE
3 . 1 page 28
Nature Inspired Architecture (Day p. 50)
3 . 2 page 30
Unique Door Design (Day p. 19)
3 . 3 page 31
Self-sufficient Architecture with Natural
and Local Materials (Pearson p. 58)
3 . 4 page 33
The Beauty of Natural Light (Pearson p. 67)
3 . 5 page 34
The Beauty of Color in Architecture
(Pearson p. 24)
SITE ANALYSIS
4 . 1 page 39
Rome, Georgia ( http://northamericanhome
care.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images
/Rome-GA.7200750_std.jpg)
4 . 2 page 39
Historic Rome, Georgia ( http://grc.gcsu.edu
/files/geog4080/web/oconee_shoals/800px-YazooGeorgia_Controversy.png)

4 . 3 page 39
Berry College Mill - Hilly Forrest View
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vIrvxnV-Ymw
/UCT1S7bOhtI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/Wj42m4lP5l0/
s1600/Rome2.jpg)
4 . 4 page 39
Berry College Mill - Rusic Materials
(http://veronicathepajamathief365project.files.
wordpress.com/2012/01/old-mill-at-berry-college
-in-rome-georgia-usa-by-melissa-at-flickr.jpg)
4 . 5 page 40
Diagram of Site Location (by author)
4 . 6 page 41
View of Site - Lake (http://www.landwa
tch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale/pid/
45000663)
4 . 7 page 41
View of Site - Wooded Area (http://www.land
watch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale
/pid/145000663)
4 . 8 page 42
View of Site - Steep Slope (http://www.landwa
tch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale/pid/
45000663)
4 . 9 page 42
View of Site - Wooded Area (http://www.land
watch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale
/pid/145000663)
4 . 10 page 42
View of Site - Lake (http://www.landwa
tch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale/pid/
145000663)
4 . 11 page 42
Zooming in Aerial View of Site (Google
Maps)
4 . 12 page 43
Site Dimensions (http://www.landwa
tch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale/pid/
145000663)
4 . 13 page 44
Site Boundaries (http://www.landwa
tch.com/Floyd-County-Georgia-Land-for-sale/pid/
145000663)
4 . 14 page 44
Rome, Georgia Weather (http://weatherspark
.com/averages/31482/Rome-Georgia-United-States)

4 . 15 page 45
Site Context Model (by author)
4 . 16 page 45
Site Concept Model (by author)
4 . 17 page 45
Site Concept Model (by author)
4 . 18 page 46
Site Concept Model (by author)
4 . 19 page 46
Site Concept Model (by author)
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
5 . 1 page 49
Falling Water Building Section (http://data.
greatbuildings.com/gbc/drawings/Fallingwater
_Section.jpg)
5 . 2 page 50
Falling Water - Natural Materials (http://ww
w.designspeakstl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/
-01/Wright-fallingwater-ext3.jpg)
5 . 3 page 50
Falling Water - Among Trees (http://www.bu
syboo.com/wp-content/uploads/modern-house
-fallingwater-3.jpg)
5 . 4 page 50
Falling Water - Incorporating Site (http://
www.fallingwater.org/img/home_assets/new
_first.jpg)
5 . 5 page 51
Cordwood with Colored Glass (http://ww
w.inspirationgreen.com/assets/images/Blog-Build
ing/Cordwood%20Bldg/cordwood%20wall.jpg)
5 . 6 page 52
Cordwood Construction (http://www.inspira
tiongreen.com/assets/images/Blog-Building/
Cordwood%20Bldg/Treehaven.jpg)
5 . 7 page 52
Cordwood with Green Roof (http://www.nat
uralbuildingblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/
04/Wholewoods-natural-roundhouse.jpg)
5 . 8 page 53
Reading Room (http://www.templemound.
com/facilities/reading_room_files/dscn0244-2.jpg)
5 . 9 page 54
Guest Room (http://www.templemound.com
/index/files/dscn1809.jpg)

5 . 10 page 54
Temple Mound (http://www.templemound.com
/index/files/dscn1809.jpg)
5 . 11 page 54
Meditation Trail (http://www.templemound.com
/facilities/meditation_trail_files/dscn1780.jpg)
5 . 12 page 55
Monastery Main Building - Natural
Materials (http://86sfa2wpzvx3fgjsn3har7
obhw.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/
uploads/2012/11/house-night.jpg)
5 . 13 page 56
Monastery - Zen Garden (http://86sfa2wpzvx3
fgjsn3har7obhw.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wpcontent/uploads/2012/11/rockgarden.jpeg)
5 . 14 page 56
Monastery - Cabins (http://86sfa2wpzvx3fgjsn
3har7obhw.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/
uploads/2012/11/aframes.jpg)
5 . 15 page 56
Monastery - Hermitage (http://86sfa2wpzvx3
fgjsn3har7obhw.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wpcontent/uploads/2012/11/hermitage.jpg)
5 . 16 page 57
Creative Expression (http://www.eomega.org/
sites/default/files/styles/article_md/public/images/
articles/omega_institute_find_your_creative_ out
let.jpg?itok=v9JTgVnM)
5 . 17 page 58
OMEGA - Group Dining (http://www.eom
ega.org/sites/default/files/images/dining-group.jpg)
5 . 18 page 58
OMEGA - Yoga (http://www.eomega.org/sites/
default/files/learning-paths/Heart%20header%20
yoga.jpg)
5 . 19 page 58
OMEGA - Guest Room (http://www.eom
ega.org/sites/default/files/images/green-room.jpg)
5 . 20 page 59
Meditation Trail with Labyrinth (http://stm
arksaustin.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01
/Labyrinth.jpg)
5 . 21 page 60
The Forest Retreat (http://www.stayvacation
rentals.com/resources/listings/pphoto_07411507
0111_forest-retreat-cabin-1-1.jpg)

LIST OF FIGURES
5 . 22 page 62
Yoga (https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images
?q=tbn:ANd9GcSNAAh1hp56dtILXbv9rFR9jujxF
m1wgxlQBNE9tU5D_M29qs6i)
TURNING CONCEPT INTO
CONSTRUCTION
6 . 1 page 65
The Addiction Tree (http://aedfoundation
inc.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/addictiontree.
gif)
6 . 2 page 67
Human Spirit, Earth, God Trinity (by
author)
6 . 3 page 68
Twelve Step/Wellbriety Diagram (by
author)
6 . 4 page 69
Conecpt into Program Diagram (by author)
6 . 5 page 70
Program Location Diagrams (by author)
6 . 6 page 71
Program Diagram (by author)
6 . 7 page 72
Circulation Diagram (by author)
6 . 8 page 73 - 74
Turning Wellriety into Architecture (by
author)
6 . 9 page 75
Form Diagram (by author)
6 . 10 page 75
Stain Glass Cordwood (by author)
6 . 11 page 76
Section View Light Diagram (by author)
6 . 12 page 76
Plan View Light Diagram (by author)
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
7 . 1 page 79
Stick Louvers (http://patsfencing.com.au/
wp-content/uploads/2012/05/old-style-woven
-fence.jpg)

7.2
7.3
7.4

7.5
7.6
7.7

7.8

7.9

7 . 10
7 . 11

7 . 12

7 . 13

page 79
Stone Wall (http://www.24ktgreen.com/upload
ed_images/rockwall.JPG)
page 79
Wood Panels (http://blog.sndimg.com/hgt
v/design/Erin-Loechner/wall.jpg)
page 79
Stone Steps (http://sublimegardende
sign.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/nat
ural-stone-steps.jpg)
page 79
Wood Mullions (http://www.centralglass.ca/
files/window-walls-curtain-walls[2].jpg)
page 79
Cordwood (http://www.cordwoodmason
ry.com/images/IMG_1298a.JPG)
page 79
Color Glass Cordwood (http://3.bp.blog
spot.com/_YOlh-xVmP-k/TKD0jn
ri86I/AAAAAAAAAyY/D__VUmY
QMi4/s1600/IMG_1797.JPG)
page 79
Roof Shakers (http://www.aplsroof
ing.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/wood-shin
gle.jpg)
page 79
Exposed Structure (http://homeguides.sfga
te.com/DM-Resize/photos.demandstudios.com/get
ty/article/117/32/87814760_XS.jpg?w=442&
h=442&keep_ratio=1)
page 79
Exposed Roof Structure (http://drkdesign.
files.wordpress.com/2010/07/l1120153.jpg)
page 79
Folding Glass Doors (http://p.globalsourc
es.com/IMAGES/PDT/B1080025678/Wood
en-Grain-Design-Aluminum-Folding-Doors.jpg)
page 79
Planters on Terraces (http://st.houzz.com/
simgs/9321e48e000aea32_4-5690/traditional-out
door-planters.jpg)
page 80
Detail Wall Section (by author)

7 . 14 page 82
North Door (http://www.idesignarch.com/
wp-content/uploads/2010/08/artfactory
DoorZwingerPalace.jpg)
7 . 15 page 82
East Door (http://www.artsignsinteriors.com/im
ages/pg44/home-wood-decorative_2.jpg)
7 . 16 page 82
West Door (http://www.zomdai.com/imag
es/2013/12/interior-furniture-modern-minimalist-in
terior-glass-and-wood-entry-doors-design-mod
ern-interior-doors-design-for-2014.jpg)
7 . 17 page 82
South Door (http://www.doorsbydecora.net/clie
ntimages/41910/countryfrench/dbyd2033_lb.jpg)
7 . 18 page 83
Bathroom ADA (http://www.harborcitysup
ply.com/ADA/ADA_alcove_eor_B.jpg)
7 . 19 page 83
Ramps ADA (http://www.lowes.com/brands/Ac
cessibleHome/images/graph.gif )
7 . 20 page 84
First Floor Egress (by author)
7 . 21 page 84
Second Floor Egress (by author)
7 . 22 page 84
Third Floor Egress (by author)
7 . 23 page 84
Stair Code (http://www.contractortalk.com/attach
ments/f50/11349d1220149189-aussie-stairs-ameri
can-style-stringer-7-inch-rise-11-inch-run2.jpg
FINAL DESIGN
8 . 1 page 87 - 88
Site Plan (by author)
8 . 2 page 89
First Floor Plan (by author)
8 . 3 page 89
Second Floor Plan (by author)
8 . 4 page 90
Third Floor Plan (by author)
8 . 5 page 91
Typical Guest Unit (by author)

8 . 6 page 91
North Hermitage Plan (by author)
8 . 7 page 91
North Hermitage Perspective (by author)
8 . 8 page 92
South Hermitage Plan (by author)
8 . 9 page 92
South Hermitage Perspective (by author)
8 . 10 page 92
West Hermitage Plan (by author)
8 . 11 page 92
West Hermitage Perspective (by author)
8 . 12 page 93 - 94
North/South Section (by author)
8 . 13 page 95 - 96
East/West Section (by author)
8 . 14 page 97
South Elevation (by author)
8 . 15 page 98
West Elevation (by author)
8 . 16 page 99 - 100
Exterior Path View (by author)
8 . 17 page 101 - 102
Second Floor Entry (by author)
8 . 18 page 103 - 104
Art Studio (by author)
8 . 19 page 105 - 106
Art Gallery (by author)
8 . 20 page 107 - 108
Reading Room (by author)
8 . 21 page 109 - 110
Yoga Room (by author)
8 . 22 page 111 - 112
Entry View (by author)
8 . 23 page -113 - 114
Final Board Design (by author)

Holistic Wellness
A Spiritual Healing Center

Christine Ellis

August 2014

This thesis focuses on creating architecture that enchances spiritual healing by acting as a
medum between human soul and the energy of the Universe. Acheiving this will come from
inspiration driven by the Twelve-Step program developed by Alcoholics Anonymous.
However, because the focus is on people with unmanageable lives, drug related or not, focus
on the Native Americans Wellbriety Movement approach to these steps will be the driving
force for design. By doing this, the result will be the well-being and true recovery of people
who feel they have unmanagable lives, and searching for spiritual help.

wisdom

serenity
courage

Th e S e r e n i ty Pr a y e r

God,

Grant me

the s e r e n i ty to accept
the things I can not change,
the c o u r a g e to change
the things I can,
and the w i s do m to know
the difference.
- Reinhold Niebuhr

Figure 1.1

INTRO
9

This [thesis] is intended to help all individuals find

a better way of life through enlightenment,
transcendence, and a personal relationshp with Divinity.
It is especially [designed] for those who are sick and tired of being sick
and tired, and who dont know what they want but are very sure they dont
want what they have. (Herb K. xi)
People look for help from a divine power
in order to find themselves, in order to make sense
of the world, or in order to make sense of their own
lives when chaos surrounds them. People search for
peace in their world - but that has to start with peace
from within. To find peace within, those in search
of answers ask for help from a spiritual source. In
most cases, that means gathering to a church or a
wellness center to find people that can assist with
gaining answers. The buildings themselves
typically have little impact on people looking for
spiritual guidance but it could.
Those in need of spiritual help, and in this
specific case, those in need of addiction treatment,
can gather in a built environment that is not only
spiritual because the outdoor signage says so, but

because the architecture itself is spiritual. By

creating an architectural language that serves not
only as a catalyst, but as a channel for conversation
between human soul and universal energy, the built
environment can carry occupants to a greater
spiritual existence. Architecture that is spiritually
connected to the earth it occupies will then transfer
the energy of the universe into the soul of the
occupant, and vice versa, creating spiritual
wholeness, which results in internal peace within
their mind, body, and soul. And for people
searching for solutions that can help with their
personal demons, this architectural language could
speak the answers they are wishing and/or needing
to hear.

10

The

mission of an architect

is to

how to

help people understand

make life more beautiful,

the world a better one for living in,

and to

give reason, rhyme,

and

meaning to life.

Frank Lloyd Wright

ADDICTIVE MINDS

We may not be responsible for the world that

created our minds, but we can take responsibility
for the mind which we create our world.
- Gabor Mate

UNDERSTANDING WHY

PEOPLES LIVES BECOME UNMANAGEABLE

People have always looked for the 'new

big thing,' the new technology, an innovative
design in hopes to improve the future. But, in some
ways, so many man-made materials are being
produced that the beauty and value of the existing
world is being overlooked. Since man has created a
prescription drug for just about anything, more and
more people are being diagnosed with some sort of
mental disorder. Feeling down or having trouble
focusing on a task? There's a prescription drug for
that. Humans try to treat a problem with a drug
(prescribed or self-medicated) that sometimes
results in addiction. In a world looking for
innovative and new ideas, instead of treating the
mind with a drug, why not treat the mind with the
mind? A new, healthier approach should be taken:
create a world using architecture designed to help
heal the mind.
Behavioral addictions, in particular,
currently have no specific treatment methods medical or psychological (Grant 252). These
addiction also have been proven to be one of the
root causes of substance or alcohol abuse. When a
person has an addiction, they fail to resist the urge
or temptation to behave in a way that is harmful to
his/herself and/or others around them. Though no

Addictive Minds
15

treatment has been proven to cure any addiction,

self-help programs and cognitive-behavioral
therapy has been shown to help individuals
improve their quality of life. An encouragement of
healthy behavior and avoidance of high-stress
situations make for a better way of living. Some
addictive personalities will have more than one
addiction within their lifetime, which suggests
individuals with any sort of addiction have the
same underlying psychiatric issue (Grant 256).
Very often the stress of dealing with everyday life is
the trigger and motivation for an addiction. If a
person suffering with an addiction does not seek
help, it can destroy their life or even end in death
(Grant 257). The built environment can help aid in
the treatment of addictions by encouraging
relaxation.
When an individual suffers from an
addiction, the mindset goes from wanting, to
craving, to needing, creating a psychological
dependence to the object of their addiction
(DiFranza 815). Studies have shown that when an
individual tries to give up their addiction, they go
through withdrawal symptoms that range from
easily ignored, to intrusive thoughts, to can't
function (DiFranza 820). The repetitive behavior

of rewarding desire creates not only a physical

addiction, but a psychological one, as well
(DiFranza 819). It has been suggested that the
longer an addict continues to satisfy their urges, the
stronger their addiction becomes and is harder to
treat. If the repetition of negative behavior can
become addicting, the repetition of positive
behavior should be used as treatment.
A particular dimension of interest is
cognitive control ability because impairments in
the capacity to control thoughts, feelings, and
actions are key to several psychiatric disorders.
Here, we describe evidence suggesting that
cognitive control over behavior is a crucial
dimension of function relevant to addictions
(Groman 295). Depending on the severity of an
addiction will depend how well certain treatments,
like intervention, affect different individuals. Every
mental disorder is different, as well as every
individual, so finding the right treatment can be
very challenging. The key is to study the
abnormalities of these personalities in order to
explain why it happens and how to develop
treatment. Teaching an individual with mental
illness how to manage cognitive control can be
used not only to treat addictions but other mental

issues, such as anxiety and obsessive compulsive

disorder. Cognitive control is a person's ability to
control their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
Substance dependence is defined as compulsive
and inflexible drug-seeking and -taking, despite the
negative consequences associated with that
behavior. This concept likely extends to so-called
process addictions, as there is evidence that similar
forms of compulsive behaviors can develop in
response to nondrug reinforcers, including food
and sex (Groman 296). When people have
certain mental disorders, they have impulse
behaviors that make resisting urges more difficult.
They will also lack the ability to make good
decisions or care about the consequences of their
actions. The main focus of cognitive control is the
ability to realize the benefits of good behavior by
making life goals. The inability to have cognitive
control could be from genetics prior to drug
exposure, but not always. Just the use and exposure
to drugs has been shown to diminish the ability for
cognitive control, therefore making the addiction
worse and worse after prolonged exposure to the
drug. There are some pharmaceutical drugs that
can enhance the ability for good cognitive
behavior, but psychological training for cognitive

16

control is the only true way to lead a sober life

(Groman 297). When it comes down to how an
addict thinks, psychologists look at the
dopaminergic system within the corticostriatal
circuit of the brain because evidence shows that the
basis of behavior and cognitive function starts from
there. However, looking at that area of the brain
does not necessarily predict future addiction, so
researchers only assume that damage to the
corticostriatal circuit directly relates to the
development of an addiction. Because the brain
relies on several layers of nuclei networks, and
cognitive control has several levels itself (working

memory, behavior flexibility, response intuition),

the prefrontal cortex of the human brain has also
been proven to be essential for cognitive function.
This is not only true for addictions, but for other
disorders, such as anxiety and depression. The
prefrontal cortex is the part of the brain that
receives dopamine neurons, and without
dopamine, damage can be done to the
corticostriatal circuit, thus resulting in addiction or
the development of other mental disorders
(Groman 298). Dopamine levels tend to lower with
the exposure to certain substances, like cocaine,
heroine, and/or alcohol, but the dependency on

Figure 2.1 - A diagram showing the integration

and overlap of root issues of addiction and how
prolonged use makes the situation worse.

Addictive Minds
17

these substances stem from the lack of dopamine in

the first place, resulting in the addiction to the
abnormal desire for seeking and taking said
substance, as seen in Figure 1.
Certain individuals, like those with
ADHD, are not able to produce enough dopamine,
so are, in some cases, very susceptible to possible
addiction. The user may develop an addiction
based on the brain's desire for dopamine by
overindulging in activities that increase dopamine
levels, again saying that the root of the problem
only gets worse with prolonged exposure to the
addiction to substances. Although the lack of
dopamine and the use of cognitive control have
been shown to directly affect the possibility of
developing an addiction, a high level of dopamine
can cause cognitive control issues, as well, because
of the intense rewarding feeling dopamine causes.
However, it has also been shown that just because
an individual has cognitive control abilities,
abnormal dopamine levels can harm their behavior
in terms of developing mental disorders (300). That
being said, if an individual can learn how to better
control their thoughts and behaviors, and manage
their dopamine levels, addiction recovery is
possible. With prolonged exposure to a substance,

dopamine receptors weaken, creating an impaired

sense of positive rewards and therefore developing
a behavioral addiction and substance dependence.
By understanding how the brain works on a
biological level, and figuring out the basis of
addictions, allows the development of treatment
for mental disorders.
Mental illness and substance abuse can go
hand-in-hand (Mental). There are 23.1 million
people in the United States that are in need of
substance or alcohol abuse treatment, which is nine
percent of the world's population. The Journal of
American Medical Association (JAMA) has stated
that fifty percent of people with severe mental
conditions (such as depression and anxiety) will
also have a substance or alcohol addiction. The
reverse can also be said that addiction causes
mental illness thirty-seven percent of alcoholics,
and fifty-three percent of drug addicts have been
reported to have mental illness(es). It is common
that a person with a mental illness will
self-medicate with alcohol and drugs thus
making their illness even worse. Overexposure to
drugs such as ecstasy can alter chemicals in the
brain which results in behavior and mood disorders
that cause depression and anxiety, which the user

18

will then, in most cases, self-treat with alcohol or

more drugs. People that expose themselves to
drugs or alcohol at a young age can damage their
brain development of cognitive and social
behavior, which can lead to mental illness in their
futures. This creates a vicious cycle and proves that
in order to achieve sobriety, mental health
treatment is vital. However, out of the 23.1 million
that need help from addiction in the United States,
only nine percent receive actual treatment.
Because mental illness has several factors,
including genetics, the environment, and major life
experiences, the disease can be a challenge to treat
medically which could be the reason so few seek
treatment. The fact that a person's surrounding
environment has been known to contribute to the
development of mental illness validates the need
for the built environment to be a factor in treating
the mind. Hopefully by creating inviting spaces
that help improve mental health, more people will
seek treatment, thus resulting in happier, sober lives
for millions of people.
Apparently a new term in the English
language, Wellbriety means to be sober and well
(Coyhis 1928). Wellbriety means a mental,
physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being that

Addictive Minds
19

leads to a sober life it's the difference between

being 'in recovery' versus 'recovered.' One of the
major factors of mental health treatment is change
from within. People with addictions or mental
illness issues have to have the desire to change their
own life a conscious decision and dedication to
changing behavior (Coyhis 1930). Healing will
happen inside out. The Native American
community has developed a holistic approach to
recovery by using what is called The Healing
Forest (1931). In order to treat mental illness, the
root causes on a spiritual or subconscious level
must be determined. Typically these issues cause
anger, guilt, shame, and fear, which then turn into
a behavior disorder. By replacing anger, guilt,
shame, and fear with healing, hope, unity, and
forgiveness, wellbriety can be achieved.. A
method called the Medical Wheel has also been
developed for mental health healing. This method
is a focus on the cycling of energy, and how all
living things are interconnected with energies, thus
connected to a greater power - the Great Spirit or
Creator (1932). This method relates the life cycle
(baby, youth, adult, elder) to the Earth's seasons
(spring, summer, fall, winter) and compass
directions (east, south, west, north), and then to

Figure 2.2 - A representation of a holistic approach to the 12 step program and how it integrates with
the Medical Wheel treatment method.
20

Figure 2.3 - Values developed by the Native Americans for spiritual healing versus the values of western
American contemporary values
Addictive Minds
21

Figure 2.4 - The 12 step program developed by the Native American Wellbriety movement

22

human development (emotional, mental, physical,

spiritual). This wheel teaches that opposites, or
polarities, have been put on Earth to create balance
(ex: good/bad, man/woman). When a human feels
anxiety or stress, these feelings are messages from
the universe that there is an imbalance within and
that balance needs to be achieved. To focus on the
conscious and subconscious effects of the world
may be the answer to addiction treatment look at
the world that can be seen, as well as the world that
can not be seen. Because human beings exist in a
world where the physical state dominates their
lives, by gaining spirituality and traveling to a
spiritual state, recovery is more likely to happen.
Native Americans typically do this with sacred
pipes, sweat lodges, sun dances, and other such
rituals that bring the physical body to a heart
healing state (1931-32). True healing is when the
spiritual and physical forms have recovered. It is
assumed that nature has always been used as guide
to life to live alongside nature means to live
alongside earth and all of its power and healing
energies (1938). Buildings built out of natural
materials or therapies involved in natural contact
often result in better recovery. Not only should
there be a focus on recovery, but on prevention, as

Addictive Minds
23

well (1939). By teaching preventative methods,

people on the verge of a substance or alcohol issue
can seek help and prevent the development of an
addiction.
The built environment and the spaces it
creates should not be seen as only a physical
surrounding, but as an interconnection between
conscious and subconscious (Fuchs 426). The built
environment can be described as an ecological
niche, which implies that physical surroundings
have a direct relationship with how a person reacts
and behaves. Human beings as a whole have
developed the physical world as it is today, but
without realizing how the world negatively
impacts human beings on an individual level
(Fuchs 427). Humans have affect over the
environment, but in tandem, the environment has
affect over humans. When a person is experiencing
a mental health issue, they feel like there is no
supporting ground or reason for their existence
metaphorically speaking, a disorder in lived space
(Fuchs 428). It is said that the phenomenology of
the unconscious mind plays a vital role in
psychotherapy because several underlying issues
lay within subconsciousness. If repeated flashes of
ideas, memories or skewed interpretations of

physical reality can in fact result in poor mental

health, then it can be assumed that repeated
exposure to physical spaces that create a positive
subconscious response can be used to better mental
well-being.
The mind, body, and spirit are one. If the
body is happy in it's built environment, then so will
the mind and spirit. Happier people make for
happier, better societies and communities. By
studying how the mind works and how to design to
appeal to a person's subconscious, an innovative
way of healing can be discovered. This has been
proven with the use of colors, lighting, size of
spaces, room layouts, exposure to nature and even
encouragement of yoga and meditation. It has been
proven that sound can also access deep levels of the
subconscious mind and that repeated exposure to
certain sounds can teach the mind to behave a
certain way. With the integration of all these factors
and how architecture can expose them in a facility
designed specifically for such a healing, the 'new
big thing' will be recovering mental health through
the physical environment.
...

24

SPIRITUAL RECOVERY
THROUGH ARCHITECTURE

In architecture, as in life,
to separate spirit and matter is to destroy both.
- Frank Lloyd Wright

THE TRINITY OF

HUMAN SOUL, BUILT ENVIRONMENT, AND DIVINE POWER

Speaking from a scientific standpoint,

human beings are made up of the same atoms that
were once stars (Tyson). Old stars collapsed and
exploded and evolved into galaxies, planets, and
living organisms. Therefore, humans are literally
creations of the universe. Everything on Earth, and
Earth itself, are creations of the universe. To realize
this creates a connection between human soul and
universal power. American astrophysicist Neil
deGrasse Tyson states:
Theres a level of connectivity. Thats
really what you want in life, you
want to feel connected, you want to
feel relevant, you want to feel like a
participant in the goings on of
activities and events around you.
(Tyson)
It only makes sense that spiritual centers
should be designed with architecture that not only
becomes one with the earth, but embraces and
enhances it a loving experience of wholeness and
harmony, creating balance and sense of oneness.
Frank Lloyd Wright believed the good building is
not one that hurts the landscape, but is one that
makes the landscape more beautiful than it was
before that building was built (Wright 18). This
idea is vital for the sake of creating architecture that

Spiritual Recovery
27

has a spiritual connection to Earth. Nature is

harmoniously connected to the energy of the
universe, to create buildings that harmoniously
connect to the earth as if the architectural form was
destined to be there, inhabitants of that architecture
will harmoniously connect with the universe (Day
20). In order to achieve this, climate, culture,
tradition, and historical issues of the buildings
context must be considered (13, 16). Although
context issues considered could be national instead
of city specific, using the immediate surroundings
issues will ultimately result in a form that
communicates with the earth it rests upon. By
consciously considering the sites context when
designing the built environment, architecture will
unconsciously affect the people it holds. Doing so
creates architecture that acts as the channel
between the power of universe and the human soul.
Architecture that has an intimate
relationship with the earth will be truly connected
to the cosmos, which will then touch the soul
within a person, thus creating a divine trinity that
unconsciously invokes spiritual healing. By
creating such a spiritual relationship, inhabitants
will feel like they truly belong on this earth and find
purpose in their existence. And, as has been

previously discussed, spiritual help is the basis of

true recovery for addictions.

NATURE AS INSPIRATION
FOR SPACE AND FORM
In order to truly connect architecture to
Earth, the building has to nourish the ground it
occupies (Day 9). The purpose of the building
should not only be to fit the needs of the intended
program, but to nurture the earth it occupies and
nurture the occupants it holds. Frank Lloyd Wright

used nature as his inspiration for architectural

design because he believed the earth to be more
important than the building (Pearson 50). A
building is but only a guest within nature, so it
should honor and respect the earth it stands on.
Architects should use nature as inspiration
when designing a building for spiritual healing
because nature creates the places people like to go
to relax, such as landscapes, beaches, rivers, and
open valleys (Day 35). It is the spirit of these places
that attract people to them, relieving their stress and

Figure 3.1
28

putting their minds at ease.

Wright believed that architecture should
create a sense of delight and surprise. Much like
finding spiritual healing is a journey within self,
buildings for spirituality should create a journey
within itself, as well. This can be done with spaces
that require the occupant to walk through a closed
and restricted space, to one which was light, open,
and airy, much like the experience of walking
from a dark forest into a sunny meadow
(Pearson 50).
When using nature to inspire the
organization of a buildings program and form, the
philosopher Goethe compared the idea to plant
metamorphosis of seed, bud, leaf, flower and fruit.
Each phase is a transformation, but all for one
specific plant (Pearson 52). For an individual going
through a spiritual transformation, having a variety
of spaces encourages growth. Because nature is as
complex as it is simple, designing with organic
shapes will inspire a desire for creativity as well as
enhance individuality within the people gathering
in such interesting spaces (Pearson 50-1). When
applying that to the ideas of spiritual healing, if an
individual feels creative and free, they will be more
receptive to the spiritual world.

Spiritual Recovery
29

Considering context is very important in

making sure the built environment is connected to
the energy of the earth, but that does not mean the
only considerations have to be immediately local.
Referenced in the context paper, the Native
Americans use the cardinal points as spiritual
coordination in their twelve-step addiction recovery
program (Coyhis 1935). This can be used to
orientate the building program on the site. East
represents the first three steps: honesty, hope, and
faith finding the creator (Coyhis 1935). Facing
south is dedicated to finding self with courage,
integrity, and willingness as the next three steps of
the program. Moving to the west means finding
relatives through humility, forgiveness, and justice.
And finally facing north means gaining elders
wisdom with perseverance, spiritual awareness,
and service, as the last three steps of the program.
Architecturally, this idea can inspire the
arrangement of spaces to create the developmental
journey individuals will go through during their
healing process.
Still considering that spiritual healing is a
journey, transitioning from step to step in a recovery
program could be architecturally interpreted as
moving from room to room, activity to activity, and

We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us.

Winston Churchill
mood to mood (Day 24). In order to physically get
from room to room, we have to go through a
doorway. Similarly, to get from step to step, we
have to push through a spiritual barrier, or
metaphorical checkpoint. Designing the shapes of
doorways, and the weight and design of doors, door
handles, and/or door latches (like the one in Figure
6), for each individual phase of the recovery
process, eases the transition, and gives people a
sense of personalized accomplishment (Day 24).
Creating a physical journey can act as a guide for
the spiritual journey.
An example of nature in healing
architecture is the Vidarclinic by architect Erik

Asmussen. When explaining his architecture, he

says, the wall is not merely a wall, it is living, just
like an organism that allows elevations and
depressions to grow out of itself (Pearson 54). In
order to inspire inhabitants to develop spiritually,
their surrounding environment must inspire them
by being spiritual itself. This can be achieved by
incorporating natural materials, natural light, and
color into physical spaces.

NATURAL MATERIALS
To find spiritual answers within self,
honesty is needed; building materials used in
spiritual architecture need to be honest and true:
natural. Unfortunately, to save money, an
alternative or faux option is sometimes used. On the
topic of using materials that only resemble nature,
such as laminate wood, Christopher Day
comments using such materials is as hollow and
meaningless as synthetic fresh bread smell outside
a fast-food restaurant. (Day 20)
Not only does using natural materials have
a spiritual benefit, but an ecological one, as well
(Pearson 73). If a building is harmonious with
nature, it also benefits the environment. By creating
self-sufficient buildings, series of eco-cycle

Figure 3.2

30

Figure 3.3
Spiritual Recovery
31

Color has a significance all its own, and is in a realm all its own.
Color is the music of light, you see.
Frank Lloyd Wright
houses, or agriculture systems, architecture can
work with nature in harmony (Pearson 74). When a
person is on a spiritual passage to recovery, they
have to learn to be self-reliant. It may, in fact, be
safe to compare that experience to a building that is
completely reliant on nature to stay alive.
More so, because context needs to play a
huge role in spiritual architecture, using local
resources is not only vital, but may even be cheaper
in some regions. Using local materials allows for
the community to play a role in the construction
process, as well. Natural materials that have been
hand crafted are unique, which is as appealing as it
is authentic (Pearson 59). When first-hand manual
labor goes into the construction of a building, it
creates a sense of spirit that connects human soul to
the built environment (Day 14). When a building is
constructed by hand, it is uniquely individual. The
universe hand crafted each individual human being
on Earth, so if a building is created in the same way,
inhabitants searching for spiritual guidance will
find comfort in a building that is perfectly
imperfect, just as they are emphasizing the trinity
of human soul, built environment, and divine
power. Sometimes this process can take years to
complete, but the results will be an eternal, spiritual

gratification. Life produces emotions, thus nature

produces emotions. If architecture connects to the
energy and life of nature, humans within the built
environment will emotionally tap into the spirit of
the universe (Mahnke 7-8).

NATURAL LIGHT
Research shows that artificial light causes
stress, and can cause us to feel dull about daily life
(Day 12, 16). Unfortunately because artificial light
is so common, and in most cases necessary, people
have become accustomed to its negative effect
(Day 16). And because we have become
accustomed to it, we continue to apply it to our built
surroundings, creating a vicious cycle of negative
impacts on our subconscious mind. In a spiritual
building, it is important to activate the senses, as
well as eliminate as many stress producers as
possible.
There is life in natural light that soothes the
soul, as much as it is beautiful to the human eye
(Day 18). A burning log fire not only gives off a
vibrant light, but a warmth that is not only
physically hot, but comforting to the soul (Day 20).
This alive light is life-enhancing (Day 21). The
glands in the human brain that affect growth and

32

hormones have been proven to be affected by

natural light, as well as nourish the soul. Natural
light should shine gently into spaces throughout the
day, creating different intensities and colors that can
affect the moods of occupants.
Light is measured in frequency waves
called nanometers, which depending on the
quantity, can be read as color by the human eye
(Mahnke 6). Therefore light has just as much of a
biological effect on us as colors do because light
is color.

COLOR

Figure 3.4

Spiritual Recovery
33

Light is color, and light is energy; therefore

color is also energy, and just as important for use in
spiritual architecture (Mahnke 18). The use of color
in this approach cannot be based on any personal
taste, because it is subjective. The fact of the matter
is this: color affects the subconscious based on
personal preference or not. Human reaction to color
is part of our natural instinctual behavior; the
reaction is biological (Mahnke 9). Color may set off
a train of emotions or memories within an
individual that their subconscious creates according
to what their conscious mind is exposed to their
end thought will probably have nothing to do with

Color is a very critical thing. Ive found that architects dont like
colors. Engineers too. And so somebody has to stand in. Because this is
the finish of it. It is the emotional part of a structure.
John Hench
the actual color. This just proves that the built
environment creates cognitive and emotional
responses (Mahnke 7).
To study how colors affect humans,
designers should first consider the major hues: red,
orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple/violet
(Mahnke 60-76). Red is dominant, arousing,
loving, full of life, fierce, and angry. It appears
heavy on the ceiling, aggressive on walls, and
urgent on floors. In reference to sounds, it is
associated with being loud, sweet or spicy to taste
or smell, and firm to the touch. Orange, being a mix
of red and yellow, can have various meanings:
exciting, sociable, or intrusive. Brown is only a
darker version of orange, which is associated with
comfort, nature, and food. Orange is comforting on
the ceiling, intimate on walls, and strange on floors.
For sounds, smells, taste, and touch, it seems
strong: oranges, chocolate, and coffee. Yellow is
the happiest of the colors, resembles the sun, and
depicts a bright future. On the ceiling, it can be
similar to lighting, exciting on walls, and elevating
on floors. Although pleasant and happy visually,
and appearing smooth to the touch, yellow is
unpleasant when it comes to representing sounds or
taste: high-pitch and sour. Green is the color of

Figure 3.5

34

nature. Because blue and yellow creates green, it

can have both positive and negative associations:
health or poison. Protective on ceilings, cool on
walls, and soft on floors, green can also seem dull
with sounds, juicy to the taste, sour to smell, or
damp to touch. Blue is seen as the relaxing color,
secure, peaceful, and comfortable, but can also be
seen as depressing and cold. It can represent water
or the sky or reflections, closely related to
spirituality. Blue is cosmic on ceilings, calming on
walls, and effortless on floors. Audibly, blue seems
distant. It can also seem odorless or tasteless. Last,
but not least, purple/violet can seem seductive and
respectable. Purple appears velvety to the touch,
and sweet or narcotic to smell or taste. As pleasant
as it appears, purple is rarely used in interior spaces
because it can seem overpowering, and associated
with sad sounds (Mahnke 60-76).
Spiritualism is colorful; finding self is
never a black and white experience. In order to
further develop a relationship with the universe,
human beings have to connect their soul to every
phenomena of nature. However, considering spirit
growth for healing purposes, designers have to
realize the purpose and place for specific colors to
create a subconscious harmony.

Spiritual Recovery
35

CONCLUSION
By including different positive energies
within the built environment, a hub is created that
human beings can use to spiritually connect their
soul to the universe a place that allows the release
of the conscious world and submersion of the
unconscious world. By creating a mystical trinity
between human soul, built environment, and divine
power, a united bond will be formed so that those
suffering with addictions will have all they need for
their spiritual journey to recovery.
...

Your strength physically is nothing without the

spiritual strength that should go with it.
Frank Lloyd Wright

SITE ANALYSIS

The goal of life is to make your hear tbeat

match the beat of the universe,
to match your nature with nature.
- Joseph Campbell

CITY OF ROME, GEORGIA

HISTORIC CITY - NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE

Figure 4.1

Figure 4.3

Figure 4.2

BERRY COLLEGE MILL

Figure 4.4

The Native American culture and the historic style of Rome, Georgia proved to be the best location for
this type of building
39

FLOYD COUNTY
ROME, GA & SHANNON, GA
SHANNON
ROME

SHANNON

SITE

ATLANTA
MACON
SAVANNAH

ROME

10 MINUTE DRIVE
20 MINUTE DRIVE
Figure 4.5
40

SITE LOCATION AND CONTEXT

This site is located outside of Shannon, Georgia,

which is eight miles outside of Rome, Georgia. For
the importance of this thesis, finding a site that was
surrounded by nature was vital. This is a five acre
lot, with public community lake access, abundance
of trees, and hilly terrain, which were important in
proving that site is everything when designing
spiritual architecture. In order to become one with
the universe, architecture must become one with, or
enchance, site. The remote location gives humans a
quiet place to connect to a higher power.
Because of the spiritual and natural aspects
of this thesis, I looked closely at specific parts of the
nature in the site, and used a dream dictionary to

Figure 4.6

41

find their spiritual meanings. Water represents

luxury in life, as well as pleasure, love, and passion
(Miller 928). The site includes a beautiful lake - this
particular body of water means reflection, joy, and
friendship (Miller 496). Trees represent
achievement of hopes and desires (Miller 876).
Climbing trees can give a sense of
accomplishment, as well as a time for reflection
once in the tree alone. A rolling hill terrain can stand
for accomplishments, psychological or emotional
(Miller 417).

Figure 4.7

SHANNON

ROME

Figure 4.8

Figure 4.9

Figure 4.10

Figure 4.11
42

SITE

5 ACRES = 217,800 SQ FT

Site Location and Context

43

Figure 4.12

The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness."

John Muir

Figure 4.13

A vital part of this thesis is site: preserving it,

enhancing it, and gathering inspiration from it. The
main focus of a spiritual recovery is taking care of
self. Life is sacred; nature is life; nature is sacred.

Figure 4.14

44

SITE MODELS

Figure 4.17

Figure 4.19

45

Figure 4.18

The use of pine cones and twigs as trees on the

existing site captures the concept of this thesis.
Nature is the primary focus of this design. By using
all natural, raw materials, the beauty of nature is
emphasized.

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread,places to play in and pray in,

where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.
John Muir

Figure 4.15

Figure 4.16

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

A mind that is stretched by a new experience

can never go back to its old dimensions.
- Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

CASE STUDIES
FALLING WATER .

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT

This thesis is greatly inspired by Frank

Lloyd Wright and his thoughts on preserving and
honoring site. His design fully integrates the site
elements and enhances the landscape. Its
overlapping terraces are pleasing to the eye, and its
use of natural materials prove the architect
thoroughly thought about honoring nature.
Looking at Figure 5.2, his use of natural materials
corresponds with the existing site so well, as if the

OHIOPYLE, PA
building was natural itself. The exposed structure
gives an honest look, and the low ceiling gives a
sense of coziness, like a nook or cave to call home.
It creates a sense of exploration, which this thesis
encourages. If an inhabitant of this thesis project
can gain a sense of exploration by simliarily
connecting natures spirit into the architecture, the
hope is they will also grow in exploration of
themselves.

Figure 5.1

49

No house should ever be on a hill or on anything.

It should be of the hill. Belonging to it.
Hill and house should live toether each the happier for the other.
Frank Lloyd Wright

Figure 5.2

Figure 5.3

Figure 5.4
50

CASE STUDIES
CORDWOOD CONSTRUTION
One important goal of this thesis is to
create a close relationship with the spirit of the
Universe in order to aid in spiritual healing. To do
this, the use of natural materials is vital. An
uprising construction method called cordwood
invovles using logs and mortar, similar to brick
laying, to create walls (Fox). This method is
environemntal friendly in its use of nature, as well
as its great insulative properties. As stated
previously, contructing a buildling by hand
captures the human spirit into the architecture, thus
enhancing the Human Spirit, Mother Nature,
Universe trinity needed for developing a
meaningful spiritual relationship. Kelly Hart and
Dr. Owen Geiger state on their Wholewoods
Natural Buildings website:
Building something beautiful in
sympathy with the natural world is
Real Building. Around the world
many traditional communities build
this way. Designs of simple beauty
have evolved over generations; their
elegance tells the story of the people
and their relationship to the land.
(Hart)

51

Very often, other materials such as glass can be

placed alongside the logs in the walls to create a
stain glass effect (seen in Figure 5.5). These
constructions usually have green roofs because of
its purely natural materiality as seen in Figure xx.
Also, as seen in these figures, this construction is
usually for smaller size buildings, so for the sake of
this thesis, will be used mainly for the smaller,
intimate areas of the site, rather than the main
building.

Figure 5.5

Figure 5.6

Figure 5.7

52

CASE STUDIES
TEMPLE MOUND SPIRITUAL WELLNESS CENTER . TARPON SPRINGS, FL
This wellness center includes a meditation
trail with a labyrinth , a reading room, guest rooms,
fire pit/temple site, and a media room for movies.
Its a fairly small facility, with focus mainly on the
experience of nature. Throughout the meditation
trail, there are specific locations with places to sit
and written suggestions of contemplation. It is said
that the temple has a strong energy that can be felt
and is great for learning energy awareness. The
labyrinth along the trail is also said to be great for

introspection and spirituality development. In order

to use the facility, you must be a guest or make a
reservation. Meals are supplied. To further focus on
the purpose of this facility, the guest rooms have no
television. They do mention that they have internet,
but greatly encourage an electronic free stay to
better
enjoy the experience. They supply
meditation classes and yoga for a very enjoyable
nature based retreat (DerDerian).

Figure 5.8

53

Figure 5.9

Figure 5.10

Figure 5.11

54

CASE STUDIES
ZEN MOUNTAIN MONASTERY .

MOUNT TREMPER, NY

This monastery uses local natural building

materials throughout the entire site. There are
several different buildings included in this
monastery, and all of them are built with natural
materials and site in mind. The main building
(Figure 5.12) includes guest rooms, meditation
hall, dining hall, kitchen, lounge, and rooms for
practitioners. The Sangha House includes admin,
library, art studio, body practice space, and reading
rooms. For more one-on-one spiritual

development with self and Universe, there are

small structures called hermitages set up in the hills,
where one stays isolated for a week. The site also
includes a cemetary, mountain views, a tea house
for practitioners, vegetable gardens, zen gardens
(Figure 5.13), cabins for long term practitioners
(Figure 5.14), and a pond for reflection. They offer
several workshops and retreat opportunities
(Ikusei).

Figure 5.12

55

Figure 5.13

Figure 5.14

Figure 5.15
56

CASE STUDIES
OMEGA NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION .

RHINEBECK, NY

This non-profit organizations slogan is,

awakening the best in the human spirit
(Kornheisl). They do this through retreats and
workshops. This is a huge organization that
includes yoga, art therapy, dining, and guest rooms.
They focus on socialization with meal times so
groups have a chance to tell and hear one anothers
stories. Classes specifically focused on spirit

growth, relationships, leadership, health, and

sustainable living are all available. All of these
activities can be related back to the principles of the
twelve steps and used in this thesis. This facility
also has retreat opportunities that focus soley on
outdoor activities with yoga, tai chi, meditation, in
order to connect with yourself and others...in the
heart of the Hudson Valley (Kornheisl).

Figure 5.16

57

Figure 5.17

Figure 5.18

Figure 5.19
58

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

RECREATION
DOCK / W ATER REFLECTION
ZEN GARDENS

1800 SF
500 SF

MEDITATION TRAIL (WITH LABYRINTH)

Labyrinth / Meditation Trail

Austin, Texas

Figure 5.20

59

TOTAL 2300 SF
1200 LINEAR FEET

HERMITAGES
KITCHENETTE
BATHROOM
STUDIO FLOOR PLAN
PATIO

50 SF
50 SF
200 SF
200 SF
TOTAL
THREE HERMITAGES

500 SF
1500 SF

GUEST UNITS
BATHROOM
STUDIO FLOOR PLAN
PATIO

60 SF
120 SF
100 SF
TOTAL
FIVE UNITS

280 SF
1400 SF

The Forest Retreat in Meadville, Mississippi

Figure 5.21

60

MAIN BUILDING
300 SF
1500 SF
865 SF
620 SF
500 SF
1500 SF
1050 SF
1300 SF
425 SF
700 SF
200 SF
200 SF
970 SF
8800 SF
6600 SF
5000 SF
1515 SF

LOBBY/ ENTRY
YOGA / MEDITATION ROOM
LARGE MEETING ROOM
SMALL MEETING ROOM
KITCHEN
READING ROOM
CAFETERIA
GALLERY
ART STUDIO
ADMIN
STORAGE FOR GALLERY
STORAGE FOR MEETING ROOMS
BATHROOMS WITH LOCKERS (2)
TERRACES
PARKING
CIRCULATION (20% OF BUILDING TOTAL)
MECHANICAL / ELECTRICAL (6% OF BUILDING TOTAL)

TOTAL

OVERALL TOTAL 35,745 SF

Program Development
61

32,045 SF

Figure 5.22

62

TURNING CONCEPT
INTO CONSTRUCTION

You might say that nature

is the God of the architect.
- Frank Lloyd Wright

Figure 6.1
Having an addiction doesnt mean only having an issue with alcohol or substances.
Life can become unmanageable with any kind of addiction.
Turning Concept into Constrution
65

Its not rehab.

Its about bettering your life and relationship with a higher power.
Developing that spiritual relationship means living a fuller, happier life.
The common confusion of the Twelve
Step recovery program is that it is only for those
suffering from a drug or alcohol problem. It can
actually be applied to any sort of dependence or life
issue. Its not just a method that has been proven to
help in the recovery of addictions, but because of its
spiritual approach, it can transform a life that seems
unmanageable whatever the issue. The Steps then
become more than just a recovery option, but a true
way of bettering life and personal well-being. The

goal is to create a sacred place emersed in nature

that comforts and heals the human soul because of
its spiritual power. The purpose of this thesis is to
create architecture that enhances this spiritual
power and life-enhancing method. In order to
create truly spiritual architecture, the incorporation
of how the human mind works, how nature inspires
and creates life, will create a truly emersing spiritual
experience.

ARCHITECTURE THAT CREATES

A HOLY TRINITY
AND ACTS AS A MEDIUM
BETWEEN HUMAN SPIRIT, EARTH, AND GOD

Figure 6.2
66

NORTH

CHANGE

RECOGNITION

FORGIVENESS

MENTAL

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

STEP 4: COURAGE
STEP 5: INTEGRITY
STEP 6: WILLINGNESS
SOUTH
Figure 6.3

Turning Concept into Constrution

67

FIND THE CREATOR

EMOTIONAL

PHYSICAL

ACKNOWLEDGE MEANS
I AM READY TO DO THE
HARD PERSONAL WORK
TO ALLOW WHAT I
RECOGNIZED TO
ACTUALLY COME IN
AND CHANGE ME

START

EAST

STEP 7: HUMILITY
STEP 8: FORGIVENESS
STEP 9: JUSTICE

SPIRITUAL

CHANGE MEANS THAT I

STOP DOING ALL THE
NEGATIVE BEHAVIORS
THAT WERE
NEGATIVELY AFFECTING
MY LIFE

STEP 1: HONESTY
STEP 2: HOPE
STEP 3: FAITH

WEST

FORGIVE MEANS TO
FINALLY TAKE OFF THE
BACKPACK FULL OF
HARMS AND HURTS
THAT I HAVE BEEN
CARRYING AROUND

STEP 10: PERSEVERANCE

STEP 11: SPIRITUAL AWARENESS
STEP 12: SERVICE

RECOGNIZE MEANS I
FINALLY ACCEPT THE
FACT THAT I AM
POWERLESS OR
HELPLESS OVER MY
LIFE - MY LIFE HAS
BECOME
UNMANAGEABLE

TWELVE STEPS TO RECOVERY THROUGH SPIRITUALISM

Step One

WE ADMITTED WE WERE POWERLESS OVER OUR ADDICTION

LIVES HAD BECOME UNMANAGABLE

- THAT OUR

Step Two

CAME TO BELIEVE THAT A POWER GREATER THAN OURSELVES COULD

RESTORE US TO SANITY

Step Three

MADE A DECISION TO TURN OUR WILL AND OUR LIVES OVER TO THE
CARE OF GOD AS WE UNDERSTOOD HIM

Step Four

MADE A SEARCHING AND FEARLESS MORAL INVENTORY OF OURSELVES

Step Five

ADMITTED TO GOD, AND OURSELVES AND TO ANOTHER HUMAN BEING

THE EXACT NATURE OF OUR WRONGS

Step Six

WERE ENTIRELY READY TO HAVE GOD REMOVE ALL THESE DEFECTS OF

CHARACTER

Step Seven

HUMBLY ASKED GOD TO REMOVE OUR SHORTCOMINGS

Step Eight

MADE A LIST OF ALL PERSONS WE HAD HARMED, AND BECAME WILLING

TO MAKE AMENDS TO THEM ALL

Step Nine

MADE DIRECT AMENDS TO SUCH PEOPLE WHEREVER POSSIBLE, EXCEPT

WHEN TO DO SO WOULD INJURE THEM OR OTHERS

Step Ten

CONTINUED TO TAKE PERSONAL INVENTORY AND WHEN WE WERE

WRONG PROMPTLY ADMITTED IT

Step Eleven

SOUTH THROUGH PRAYER AND MEDITATION TO IMPROVE OUR

CONSCIOUS CONTACT WITH GOD AS WE UNDERSTOOD HIM, PRAYING
ONLY FOR KNOWLEDGE OF GODS WILL FOR US AND THE POWER TO
CARRY THAT OUT

Step Twelve

HAVING HAD A SPIRITUAL AWAKENING AS THE RESULT OF THESE STEPS,

WE TRIED TO CARRY THIS MESSAGE TO OTHER ADDICTS, AND TO
PRACTICE THESE PRINCIPLES IN ALL OUR AFFAIRS

68

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

NORTH SPIRITUAL

EASTEMOTIONAL
RECOGNIZE

PERSERVERANCE . AWAKENING . SERVICE

FIND ELDERS

CHANGE 10

11 12

HONESTY . HOPE . FAITH

wonder
FIND CREATOR
vulnerable
newness
truth
openness
discovery

knowledge
ceremony
commitment experience
dedication
contribution
application

LARGE EVENT ROOM

LIBRARY
COMMON AREA / LOBBY

ADMIN LODGES
ADMINISTRATION/OFFICES
GALLERY / ART ROOM
LOUNGE
KITCHEN

MEDITATION
TEMPLE AREA
GUEST CABINS
CAMPING GROUNDS
YOGA
FIREPIT
MEDITATION TRAIL

SMALL MEETING ROOM

WATER REFLECTION
HERMITAGES

ZEN GARDEN

FIND FAMILY
ACKNOWLEDGE
& FRIENDS COURAGE . INTEGRITY . WILLINGNESS

MENTAL
7 8 9

SMALL MEETING ROOM

SOUTH

belonging
validation
acceptance

HUMILITY . FORGIVENESS . JUSTICE FORGIVE

FIND SELF

PHYSICAL
4 5 6

Application of program to the Wellbriety Movement

Figure 6.4

69

WEST

Figure 6.5
70

Figure 6.6

Schematic Design
71

Figure 6.7
72

Schematic Design
73

Figure 6.8

74

FINDING FORM, COLOR, AND NATURAL LIGHT

FINDING FORM

Figure 6.9

To stay true to the wellbriety movement

ideas, without being too literal, form took shape
from a N/S/E/W grid. Going by this grid allows the
architecture to become rooted into the cardinal
coordinates and tap into the energy of the Universe.

COLOR
Color has been proven to be very effective
in affecting mood within interior spaces. However,
beause the use of natural materials was more
important than color, stain glass within the
cordwood construction in the hermitages, and light
well in the reading room were the only color added.
Although not a grand presence in the design, it is
successful in creating wonder and happiness within
these spaces.
75

Figure 6.10

NATURAL LIGHTING

Meeting
Rooms
Yoga

Library
Gallery

Cafeteria

Figure 6.11
Section View

Meeting
Room

Entry
Balcony
Terrace

Yoga

Meeting
Room

Library

Figure 6.12
Floor Plan

Natural daylighting was a major focus of this thesis. Roof shapes and windows were formed based on
which directon the light should come into a space. For example, the reading room has a strong focus on
knowledge, and gaining elders wisdom through reading materials, thus light should come into this space from
the North, according to the wellbriety movement. The figures above explain this idea.
76

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Forests were the first temples of God and in

forests men grasped their first idea of
architecture.
- James C. Snyder

STRUCTURE AND MATERIALS

An important part of this thesis was incorporating
nature into the architecture in order to capture its
spirit. This was sucessfully done by using wood
construction, stone, and recycled trees from the site.
Figure 7.1

Preserved Wooden
Stick Louvers
Figure 7.5

Wood Mullions
on Windows
Figure 7.9

Exposed Structure

79

Figure 7.2

Stone and Concrete Walls

Figure 7.6

Figure 7.3

Figure 7.4

Preserved Wood Panels

on Floor and Walls

Stone Steps

Figure 7.7

Figure 7.8

Cordwood Construction Color Glass within Cordwood Roof Shakes

(for Hermitages)
(for Hermitages and
Library Light Well)
Figure 7.10
Figure 7.11
Figure 7.12

Exposed Pitched
Roof Structure
(in Yoga Studio)

Folding Glass
Window Doors
(in Yoga Studio)

Planters on Terraces

6 x 18 Roof Joist
3 Roof Dropdown
for Sun Shading

Wooden Stick Louvers

10 Curatin Wall
with Folding Panels

3 Stone and Concrete Wall

6 x 8 Wood Joists
2 x 6 Wood Girder

6 x 18 Wood Beam

12 x 12 Timber Wood Column

Concrete Retaining Wall

Stone and Concrete Retaining Wall

Concrete Slab with

Wood Floor Finish

Concrete Footing with Rebar

Detail Wall Section

Figure 7.13
80

DOORS
Each room has a unique door based on the
function of that specific room, depending on its
relationship to the wellbriety movement. This gives
people a sense of personal accomplishment from
step to step within the program. Creating a physical
journey can act as a guide for the spiritual journey.

NORTH

SPIRITUAL FOCUS
Yoga
Library
North Hermitage

South Hermitage
Cafeteria
Gallery
MENTAL FOCUS

SOUTH

81

EAST

EMOTIONAL FOCUS
Entry
Art Room
Meeting Rooms

West Hermitage
Guest Units
PHYSICAL FOCUS

WEST

Figure 7.14

NORTH
WEST

Figure 7.16

Figure 7.15

EAST
SOUTH

Figure 7.17

82

CODES

Terrace
Terrace

83

Restrooms in the main building, as well as in each

guest unit, are ADA accessible.

Figure 7.18

All ramps on the site have a rise with a 1/12 ratio

with at least 5 landings ever 30 or less.

Figure 7.19

Terrace

Kitchen

First Floor

Second
Floor
Meeting

Parki

First Floor

Hilly topography does allow for safe exit

Room

Balcony

Admin

Te
Storage
Terrace

Figure 7.20

Cafeteria

Yoga

Figure 7.21

Figure 7.22

Terrace

Terrace
Patio

Egress stairs are built with a 7 rise and an 11 run.

They are surrounded with fire rated walls, with
doors that lead directly to the outdoors on each
floor.

Gallery Reading Room

Art Studio

Terrace

Figure 7.23
84

FINAL DESIGN

Space has always been

the spiritual dimension of architecture.
It is not the physical statement of the structure
so much as what it contains that moves us.
- Ar thur Erickson

SITE PLAN

West Hermitage

Guest Units

Dock

87

North Hermitage

Figure 8.1

South Hermitage

Main Building
88

FLOOR PLANS
Kitchen

Mech.

Cafeteria
Terrace

Cafeteria

Terrace
Terrace

First Floor
Figure 8.2

Restrooms

Lockers

Lockers

Balcony

Admin
Storage

Open
to Below

Yoga

Terrace
Patio

Gallery
Art Studio

Figure 8.3
89

Second Floor

Terrace

Meeting
Room

Parking

Storage

Meeting
Room
Terrace

Terrace
Reading Room
Terrace

Figure 8.4

Third Floor

Floor plans showing natural lighting

0
10
40
20
N

90

HERMITAGES
The hermitages are built with a mixture of colorful
glass, and cordwood made from the existing trees
that have to be demolished during building
construction. Each hermitage was designed to
encourage a one-on-one relationship with nature by
fully encorporating the land it rests on.

Guest units were minimally designed so that

visitors will not desire to stay in the room. Although
some people choose to stay in a Hermitage, spiritual
recovery works best with socialization.

Figure 8.5

Typical Guest Unit

0
0
N

10

Figure 8.6

20

10

20

North: Focus on Spiritual Awakening

Light from the West to find self
Figure 8.7
91

North Hermitage

Figure 8.8

South: Focus on Spiritual Willingness

Light from West and South to focus on forgiving self

10

20

Figure 8.9

Figure 8.10

South Hermitage
West: Focus on Self Reflection and Physical Labor

Light from the West and South to gain forgiveness of self

Gardening for physical labor
0
N

10

20

Figure 8.11

West Hermitage
92

NORTH / SOUTH SECTION

93

10

20

40

4
8

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

6
2

Egress
Kitchen
Restrooms
Green Roof
Zen Garden
Yoga Studio
Parking Lots
Meeting Room Storage

Figure 8.12

94

EAST / WEST SECTION

7
3

11

Figure 8.13

95

10
2

10 20

40

60

Lake
Gallery
Cafeteria
Light Well
Green Roof
Stone Steps
Yoga Studio
Dock Terrace
Twig Louvres
Reading Room
Retaining Wall

96

ELEVATIONS

South Elevation
0 10 20

Figure 8.14

97

40

West Elevation
0 10 20

40

Figure 8.15

98

EXTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

99

Figure 8.16

EXTERIOR PATH VIEW

100

EXTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

101

Figure 8.17

SECOND FLOOR ENTRY

102

EXTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

103

Figure 8.22

ENTRY VIEW FROM PARKING LOTS

104

INTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

105

Figure 8.18

ART STUDIO

106

INTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

This small gallery gives visitors a chance to display

their artwork created during their stay. Some partitions
are on wheels so they can be adjusted. The lightwell
from the library brings sunlight down into the space, as
well as a few smaller windows. The idea is to let the
spirit of the artwork consume the room.
107

Figure 8.19

ART GALLERY

108

INTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

The Reading Room focuses on Steps 10, 11, and

12, which is centered around Elders Wisdom, and
the North coordinate. Natural lighting is brought
from all directions, since the library contains
knowledge of every step, but mainly from the top of
the space. All windows are placed above eye level
so the focus is on the knowledge, not site.
However, if one would like to read while outside,
there is an outdoor terrace (door to outside located
in the middle of the view, behind book shelf). A
cordwood wall with colored glass makes up the
lightwell and continues down to the gallery.
109

Figure 8.20

READING ROOM

110

INTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

111

Figure 8.21

YOGA STUDIO

The Yoga Studio focuses on the physical and mental aspects of the recovery program, so faces South and West.
The glass wall is foldable so it can be opened on a sunny day, and occupants can enjoy this meditating exercise
along with the outdoors. Daylight coming from the south is strong, so louvres made from twigs of trees
surround the space to allow for shading. A small wrap around walkway is available for those who wish to see
the view of the lake from the most protruding portion of the building, but not have to particpate in yoga.
112

PRESENTATION DESIGN

Holistic Wellness
A Spiritual Healing Center
North/South Section
0

10

15

20

Meeting
Room

Entry
Balcony
Terrace

Meeting
Room

N/S/E/W Grid
Yoga

East/West Elevation
Terrace

Parking

Library

Sunlight Plan Diagram

Meeting
Room

Light from West to find self

Light from East to find honesty
Light from North to gain elders wisdom
Light from South to find friends and family

North H
Storage

Pathway

Balcony

Sunlight Section Diagram

Meeting
Rooms
Yoga

Restrooms

Balcony

Library
Gallery
0

10

Admin
Library

West Hermitage

Cafeteria

15

20

Meeting
Room

Storage

First Floor
0

10

20

40

Yoga

The Wellbriety Movement

Balcony

Balcony

Gallery
Art Studio

Second Floo
0

10

20

Guest Units
0

10

15

20

South Hermi
0

10

Second Floor Entrance

Site Plan

Meditation Trail

113

Focus on physical wo

Figure 8.23

6 x 18 Roof Joist
3 Roof Dropdown
for sun shading

Twig Louvre Wall

for sun shading

10 Curatin Wall

3 stone veneer wall

North/South Section
0

10

15

20
12 x 12 Timber Wood Column

Concrete Retaing Wall

Detail Wall Section

West Elevation

Art Studio

Hermitage
10

15

20

Kitchen

Terrace

Storage

Cafeteria

Terrace

or

Third Floor
40

10

20

40

Yoga Studio

Art Gallery

itage
15

20

West Hermitage

ork with garden work

South Hermitage

Focus on mental observation

with view of main building and lake

North Hermitage

Focus on becoming one with Nature

to gain elders wisdom

Library

114

CONCLUSION

Knowing self, Self is my journey;

Loving self, Self is my path.
- Herb K.

117

Architecture should be more than just

comprised materials sitting on a peice of the Earth.
When taking a closer look, not just at the physical
structure, but at its context, its meaning, its message
to the world, there is something more to be said.
The same can be said for humans. Humans
are more than just a cluster of cells, because they
feel emotions, they feel pain, and happiness.
Humans have opinions, interests, hobbies, life
goals - and express this throughout their existence.
Cant the same idea be applied to architecture?
Nature is as simple as it is complex. This
thesis was designed with that phrase in mind. The
design was as simple as it was complex. To the eye,
the design is simple and basic: straight lines and
rigid forms. However, when looking deeper, there

is reasoning behind why every space is the way it is;

much like nature; much like humans.
So in a center designed for spiritual
healing, which involves believing and seeing the
underlying meaning of things, the architecture
should have its own spirit, and its own meaning.
The Twelve-Step program encourages
social interaction with all of Gods creations.
Relationships with other humans, a relationship
with self, a relationship with nature, and a
relationship with a Higher Power. This thesis
applied that idea to designing architecture. This
design encourages social interactions, integrates
nature, enhances site, and thus creates a spiritual
structure that inspires those that visit.

118

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