Architect Jainika Shah has designed Adhyatma Spiritual Spa, a conceptual wellness retreat planned for Sedona, Arizona, that showcases her innovative approach to sustainable architecture. Named after the Sanskrit term meaning "higher soul," the project seamlessly integrates into the iconic red-rock landscape through thoughtful material selection and environmentally conscious design strategies.
Shah's architectural practice centers on wellness-driven spatial design that brings together technology, tradition, sustainability, and environmental awareness. Her approach treats architecture as a dynamic interaction between human experience and ecological systems, a philosophy that serves as the foundation for the Adhyatma project. The retreat features recycled wood as its primary wall surface material, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable construction practices.
The facility is organized as a carefully planned sequence of sensory zones specifically designed to support reflection, sound-based practices, and solitude. Open-air meditation pavilions are strategically oriented to filter sunlight naturally and promote natural ventilation throughout the spaces. Shallow reflective pools serve as connecting elements between the built environment and the surrounding desert landscape, creating a harmonious relationship with the natural setting.
Beyond the Adhyatma project, Shah explores cutting-edge material research through her Mycelium Maison initiative, which investigates the architectural potential of mycelium-based materials. This innovative project examines the biological characteristics of mycelium and considers how living, regenerative materials could serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional extractive construction methods. The research focuses on how mycelium-based building components could grow, decompose, and reintegrate into natural cycles, effectively merging material innovation with organic architectural forms.
Shah's diverse portfolio extends to large-scale scientific, pharmaceutical, and healthcare facilities that require strict environmental control, precise spatial organization, and technical accuracy. Her comprehensive approach links operational performance elements such as airflow management, safety protocols, and equipment planning with spatial clarity and user well-being. This methodology demonstrates how scientific environments can be enhanced through both functional efficiency and human-centered design considerations.
The architect's exceptional work has earned recognition from prestigious industry organizations, including the Loop Design Awards, BLT Built Design Awards, Design Skills Award, and International Design Awards. Her projects have been exhibited internationally at venues such as the AIGA International Design Celebration, Museum of Outstanding Design, SAB Gallery, The Holy Art Gallery, and Streeters Gallery.
In addition to her design practice, Shah actively contributes to industry leadership and advocacy initiatives. She serves on the American Institute of Architects Equity and the Future of Architecture Committee and acts as a Regional Lead for Women in BIM, supporting global dialogue on digital innovation and gender equity within the architecture profession. She also participates in mentorship programs aimed at strengthening inclusive design leadership across the industry.
Through her comprehensive body of work, Shah positions architecture as a field where environmental research, material experimentation, and spatial well-being intersect to create meaningful and sustainable built environments that serve both human needs and ecological preservation.
