Buddhist Temple in Cumbria, United Kingdom

May 23, 2010 Category: Cultural, Public Buildings, Religion

The Kadampa Manjushri Buddhist Temple was designed and built by residents and volunteers is both a holy place and an architectural beauty that located in Cumbria, United Kingdom, just outside the town of Ulverston in the Lake District. The construction of the Kadampa Manjushri Buddhist Temple utilised limestone handpicked from local quarries so that the temple blends with the existing surrounding buildings.

The architectural design follows the principles of Buddhist traditional construction and has three tiers. The ground level of the temple is square with a doorway on each side, symbolizing the four doors to liberation. Installed above each doorway is a gold leafed Dharma wheel sitting between a male and female deer.

The upper level, in contrast, is octagonal with windows to allow maximum light into the building. The octagonal lantern tower is built to accommodate a large Dharma wheel containing holy texts and at the highest point is crowned with a golden vajra.

As the temple is situated alongside Conishead Priory, a Grade II* listed example of Victorian architecture, the selection of materials was of great importance. UGINOX AME, 316 grade Terne Coated stainless steel was selected for its ability to provide a lightweight, durable roof covering with the ability to take on a matt grey patina similar to traditional lead sheet. In consideration of the localised marine environment the selection of 316 grade stainless steel was essential.

Kadampa Manjushri Buddhist Temple exterior building