London and Suffolk based James Gorst Architects have designed a multi-faith temple complex in Rake, Hampshire, located within the South Downs National Park. The plan comprises orthogonal pavilions that house a temple, library, chapels, meeting spaces, public foyer and a kitchen. The pavilions are connected by a cloistered walkway facing a courtyard garden, set within landscaped grounds.
Materials characteristic of the local area, such as timber, brick and chalk lime mortar are used, and the structure was constructed off-site using glue laminated timber, eliminating the need for structural steel. Underfloor heating is provided by a ground-source heat pump, with additional power by solar energy, while cooling is achieved through ventilation beneath a raised floor slab and actuators in the temple clerestory. Photo © Rory Gardiner. James Gorst Architects
