Zapopan, Jalisco; January 31, 2024.- With the objective of supporting the community, Architect Maria Emilia del Carmen Orendain and a group of sixth semester students of the Architecture program at Universidad Panamericana campus Guadalajara, have carried out the design of the Monastery of San Damian, Zacatecas.
What does the project consist of?
The project focuses on the construction of a monastery for the Poor Clare Sisters, who have been looking for a space to consecrate their faith since 2006, but lack of resources had prevented them from building one until now.
Vision of the monastery
The monastery was destined to the congregation of the second Franciscan order, this construction stands out as an outstanding symbol of their religion. The interior and exterior design reflects the essence of Franciscan life and devotion, according to the disposition of Saint Clare of Assisi.
Design
As for the exterior, the use of stone and brick, along with the wide arches, allows the natural landscape to be appreciated through them. Inside, the spaces encourage solemn prayer, where they remember that they walk the same steps that their founder walked.
Stages of the project
The first platform is the link between the community and the monastery. Its main courtyard functions as a welcoming space. The second platform is designed to offer intimate spaces for each Poor Clare Mother and the third platform functions as a space for study, recreation and prayer for the mothers.
Challenges
Itzel Brito Valero concluded: "Going to Santa Lucía de la Sierra was a big challenge, since it is 10 hours from Guadalajara, going in a van was very hard, but we took with us the experience of living with the mothers and seeing how they live in order to adapt the project.
Teamwork
Under the guidance of Architect Maria Emilia del Carmen Orendain. The participating students are: Carla Lucía Ontiveros Preciado, Dario Langarica Herrada, Diego Francisco García Piza, Fernanda González López, Itzel Brito Valero, Michelle Hijar Navarro, Ricardo Alexander Mejía Gómez and Ximena Mariscal Díaz.
"I really liked the work team, since there were few of us, we had very good communication and a very pleasant atmosphere, and the guidance and support of the teacher to complete the project was very important"- Dario Langarica Herrada
This project not only represents the academic level of the students involved, but also the positive impact that the university and its members can have in the community and in the promotion of human and spiritual values.
