Arokayaram Dhamma Park, Wat Pan Sao Master Plan: Concept and Architectural Design

Abstract

This article delineates the conceptual framework and physical development strategy for the ìArokayaram Dhamma Parkî project, whose objective is to
transform Wat Pan Sao, Mueang District, Chiang Mai, into a focal point for communal well-being and spirituality. Initiated in 2022, the project advances the vision of a ìTemple of Health and Dhamma,î grounded in two complementary dimensions: arogya the holistic health of body and mind and dhamma inner cultivation leading to liberation. The implementation extends over a 15 year horizon and proceeds through three sequential phases: (1) preparation of a preliminary master plan (Conceptual Design); (2) detailed architectural and landscape development (Design Development); and (3) formulation of a final development scheme ready for execution (Final Design).

The undertaking is propelled by a participatory design process led by the Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, in concert with the monastic community, governmental agencies, private stakeholders, and local residents. The design approach couples the conservation of heritage structures with
context-sensitive new interventions, including expanded green areas, meditative walking paths, mindfulness plazas, and an integrated religionñhealth learning center linked to nearby hospitals and educational institutions. The anticipated outcome is a contemporary, balanced, and sustainable sacred landscape that nourishes both the physical health and the devotional life of the community, positioning Wat Pan Sao as a model for future urban temple revitalization.