Meet Peter Oudshoorn: The principal architect behind Thubten Chökor Ling

We're pleased to share our latest video in a three part series about the making of Thubten Chökor Ling: the first Tibetan Buddhist Temple of its kind in England!

Peter Oudshoorn kindly shares the design and architecture informing the build of Thubten Chökor Ling, from its traditional Tibetan and Buddhist symbolisms and intricate carvings to its subtle western influences and sustainable build features.

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Set to become a spiritual, cultural, and architectural landmark, the temple will embody traditional Tibetan design, enriched with symbolic detail and the exquisite craftsmanship of this ancient heritage. Built from local Yorkshire limestone, it will harmonise with the surrounding landscape while embracing sustainable practices through energy-efficient systems and responsibly sourced materials — all aimed at durability and minimal environmental impact. Designed to endure for a thousand years, the temple reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and resilience.

Nestled within a peaceful glade, visitors will ascend nine steps to enter through one of four grand entrances. Inside, three levels rise above ground, each serving a distinct purpose. At the heart lies a majestic shrine hall capable of welcoming up to 1,000 people — a vibrant gathering space for practice, teachings, and celebration, and a living showcase of Tibetan Buddhist art and culture.

A world-class library will further enrich the temple’s offerings, becoming a cornerstone for the preservation and sharing of Buddhist knowledge and philosophy. Designed to serve scholars, practitioners, and the general public, it will merge ancient wisdom with modern accessibility.

Architecturally, the temple will feature a striking central glass pavilion leading into a luminous atrium, filling the space with natural light across all levels. The building will be crowned by a golden pagoda roof — a radiant centrepiece that lifts the spirit and elevates the entire structure.While deeply rooted in tradition, this monumental project at Gomde UK boldly embraces the future. Through its design, purpose, and values, the temple will become a vibrant hub of learning, practice, and community — a living space where people gather, grow, and care for one another and the Earth. In doing so, it will stand as a beacon of peace and hope, nurturing hearts, minds, and the land for generations to come.

About Peter Oudshoorn

Peter Oudshoorn is the principal architect behind Gomde UK's upcoming temple, Thubten Chökor Ling. A Dutch architect and graduate of Delft University (1992), Peter brings decades of architectural experience together with a deep commitment to Buddhist values and Tibetan temple design. Since meeting Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in 2011, Peter has worked under Rinpoche’s guidance on several major projects, including the renowned Pal Shedrub Ling Monastery — the Thousand Buddha Temple in Lumbini, Nepal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the Buddha.

Peter has studied traditional Tibetan architecture extensively, including travels to Tibet and across Nepal, learning directly from Tibetan masters such as Lama Thogme, a revered expert in ritual arts and sacred design. Drawing from this rich tradition, he is now translating these principles into temple architecture for the West. With sensitivity, skill, and spiritual insight, Peter leads the design of Thubten Chökor Ling — a landmark temple built to honour tradition while serving the needs of our times.

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