A new contemplative sanctuary has opened at the renowned Vitra Campus in Weil am Rhein, Germany, designed through a unique collaborative effort between Pritzker Prize-winning architect Balkrishna Doshi, his granddaughter Khushnu Panthaki Hoof, and her husband Sönke Hoof. The Doshi Retreat represents a groundbreaking fusion of Indian spiritual traditions with contemporary architectural design, creating a space dedicated to solitude, reflection, and personal transformation.

The retreat draws its conceptual foundation from Indian spirituality and the profound meditative qualities of sound and silence. This philosophical approach is seamlessly woven into the architectural fabric, offering visitors a unique sensory journey through carefully orchestrated elements of space, light, and acoustic resonance. The design team, working under Studio Sangath, has created an environment that transcends traditional architectural boundaries to become a truly immersive spiritual experience.

The project showcases innovative structural engineering by Jan Knippers and Valentine Vagner, while specialized lighting consultation by Licht kunst Licht ensures that natural and artificial illumination work in harmony to enhance the meditative atmosphere. The sound design, crafted by Paul Oomen, Hans, and Aurelio, plays a crucial role in creating the acoustic environment essential to the retreat's contemplative purpose.

The international project team brought together diverse expertise, including Christian Germadnik, Abel Rodrigues, Aysha Nargees, Jerin Pannakel, Shivam Singh, Antorip Chaudhary, Rodolfo, Lucia Andres, Devraj Patel, and Sanjana Appachu. Construction was executed by Jenich and Oestestaal, with X Carb Steel provided by Arcelor Mittal, ensuring both structural integrity and environmental consideration.

The retreat's architecture is characterized by its thoughtful integration into the existing Vitra Campus landscape, respecting both the natural environment and the campus's established architectural heritage. The structure employs sustainable materials and construction methods, reflecting contemporary environmental consciousness while maintaining the spiritual authenticity central to its design concept.

Completed in 2025, the Doshi Retreat represents more than just an architectural achievement; it serves as a bridge between Eastern spiritual traditions and Western architectural innovation. The project demonstrates how contemplative spaces can be successfully integrated into modern cultural and educational environments, offering visitors a refuge from the demands of contemporary life while fostering deeper personal reflection and spiritual growth.