Baughman Center, Contemplation pavilion at University of Florida, United States
The Baughman Center is a meditation building on the University of Florida campus with floor-to-ceiling windows and walls of natural Florida cypress. The roof is covered in copper and the structure sits along the shore of Lake Alice.
The building was constructed in 2000 following a generous donation from George and Hazel Baughman to create a meditation space on the university grounds. Their gift made possible this quiet place for the campus community.
The chapel serves students and staff as a place for personal reflection without religious affiliation. Many use the building for quiet moments, concerts, or memorial gatherings.
The center is accessible on weekdays but exact opening hours vary by season and university events. It is wise to check ahead whether the building is available, especially during home football games or special events.
The building is astronomically aligned: it receives light from the summer solstice at sunrise and sunset. The floor is made of three different types of travertine marble arranged in geometric patterns.
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