'Buddhist Temple ~ Zen Garden' in North Park

This project was created for a Buddhist temple on the urban edge of North Park in San Diego. It was inspired by the famous Zen garden 'Ryoan-ji' in Kyoto, Japan. I donated the design layout as a gift of service, honoring traditional Japanese aesthetics while reflecting the temple's contemplative and community-oriented spirit.

Developed through thoughtful collaboration between the temple caretakers, designer (myself), and builders Evan Weisman & Omar Gutierrez of Arcadian Landscape, the garden features a serene stone-tile walking path, Sri Lankan custom caps along the perimeter walls, an elongated handcrafted Mangaris wood bench, a small water feature, and five strategically placed boulder groupings. The result is a tranquil outdoor space for meditation, reflection, and quiet connection between the city and surrounding suburban areas.