Transforming a Bus into a Peaceful Mobile Meditation Studio

Creating a Modern Mobile Temple: The Be Time I Mobile Meditation Studio Project

A New York-based company, Be Time, challenged AIDIA STUDIO to turn a passenger bus into a mobile meditation studio that would travel around the city. AIDIA STUDIO, known for their innovative designs, immediately got on board with the idea of creating an itinerant temple. Not only did they see the potential benefits of promoting wellbeing and calmness for citizens, but they were also excited about the chance to repurpose an old bus and give it new meaning.

Designing a Space of Contemplation

The challenge for AIDIA STUDIO was to create a stage for the concept of the mobile meditation studio to blossom. They aimed to infuse the space with significations associated with the concepts of meditation, consciousness, and wellbeing. To achieve this, they wrapped the bus in a continuous curved surface, creating a space without right angles or hard geometries that promotes a smooth and soothing effect. The design team softened the geometry of the bus to create a peaceful retreat, a bubble within the city.

Incorporating Sacred Geometry

To add to the peaceful ambience of the mobile meditation studio, AIDIA STUDIO chose the “fruit of life” symbol as the base module for the interior lining. They populated this symbol into a continuous wall pattern of fractal geometries, taking cues and inspiration from nature and the universe. The “fruit of life” symbol is said to be “the blueprint of the universe, containing the basis of design of every atom, molecular structure, life form, and everything in existence.”

Optical Expansion

To overcome the spatial constraints of the bus, AIDIA STUDIO placed reflective surfaces at both ends of the bus, creating an infinity effect that seemed perfectly suited for the practice of meditation. At the far end of the studio, they added a prominent light source, an oculus acting as a focal point; the third eye of centered consciousness guiding the meditation practice.

The Final Result

Partnering with McKenzie, a Miami-based boutique design, build, and custom fabrication firm, AIDIA STUDIO was able to bring their design vision to life. McKenzie transformed the vehicle into a high-tech mobile studio through the custom fabrication of unique laser-cut wall panels, coordinating the design of all the audio and lighting components to ensure all the complex design features came together harmoniously. Additionally, they built out all technicalities in the process, including generators, extra-air conditioning, and the best systems to sustain paneling and LED structure. The result was a modern mobile temple that allows individuals to subtract themselves from reality and experience a deep and personal meditation practice while traveling around the city.

Read also about the Serenity in the City: Harmonizing Urban Life and Tranquility project