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Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay Kelley<a href="http://sunraykelley.com/">SunRay Kelley</a> is one of the most unique architects in the US. The barefoot builder looks like a wizard, and many of his structures look like something dreamed up by JRR Tolkien. One of Kelley's most impressive creations is the temple at <a href="http://www.harbin.org/">Harbin Hot Springs</a> in Northern California. The the round, cob structure features a large arched roof that is punctuated by a large sunroof with a cupola.1
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyPart of the reason that SunRay Kelley's buildings are so unique is because they are all handmade.2
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyUsing nature as his guide, Kelley has built an estimated 50 organic structures, most of which are located in the Pacific Northwest.3
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyKelley has said that the round structure is like a big yurt.4
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyOf those, the Harbin Temple is perhaps his most ambitious commission.5
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyThe temple is located at Harbin Hot Springs, a popular hot springs resort and retreat located near Napa Valley.6
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyInside, a 50-foot open space is used for yoga and quiet meditation.7
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyThe entire building is made of natural materials.8
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyThe main structure of the temple is made of cob, a natural building material that is made of earth, straw and water.9
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyCob is a fireproof material that can be formed into virtually any shape, and Kelley added some sculptural forms into the exterior of the structure.10
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyLarge timber beams that are formed in a spiraling lattice design make up the structure of the roof, which resembles an arched toadstool (or a wizard's hat).11
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleyThe roof is capped with a big, arched cupola, which has a similar shape as the roof, and a tall spire that is topped with a spiked ball.12
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay Kelley<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/29/garden/sunray-kelleys-ungated-community.html?pagewanted=all">According to a recent New York Times profile</a>, most of his current projects are small modular buildings and variations on a yurt.13
Harbin Hot Springs Temple by SunRay KelleySince the 1970s, Kelley has been building his unique handmade structures all over the West Coast.14
