The Reception Sala is a key intervention on the site, providing not only informal dining and much needed food preparation areas but also helping to organise the space in front of the Main Sala. The new building acts as a marker in the landscape for those arriving and is an important spatial backdrop to both the Zen garden and the bell tower. The generous kitchen is clearly the hub of community life in the monastery. Upstairs, the views from the reception lounge are restrained, offering inspiration to those inside while at the same time limiting distractions.