BUILDING AND GROUNDS IMPROVEMENTS
Starting in late September 2025, our center will embark on two campus maintenance and beautification projects: 1) planting of trees adjacent to the main parking lot and 2) a renovation of the 176-year-old reception hall. The work is schedule to be completed by November.
While retreat fees cover the costs of running retreats, our center (and its continual improvements) depend on the generosity of community members like you!
If you would like to support our center with a donation, learn more here.
Project Purpose
The planting of around a dozen trees surrounding the DDRC main parking lot will serve to connect multiple campus spaces with trees, provide shade and shelter, as well as be aesthetically pleasing.
The building currently serving as the DDRC reception hall is nearly 200 years old. At this age, its sidings, insulation, and windows all need to be replaced to continue functioning for our community.
Project Updates
III. Siding Replacement at the Reception Hall
After months of planning, the renovation of the Reception Hall is finally in motion. In October 2025, the construction team began removing the old exterior siding of the Reception Hall and completely transformed the exterior in six weeks.
Workers diligently remove the exterior siding (left). The reception hall after new siding replacement (right).
II. Planning the Renovation of the Reception Hall
The reception hall, the first place to welcome retreatants and offer them refuge at Dharma Drum Retreat Center over many years is much in need of care itself at the moment. The years continue to add up, and it is time for this building to get a refresh.
The old reception hall exterior shows weathering after over a hundred years of use.
I. Tree Plantings
In the third week of September 2025 over twenty trees were planted, helping to transform this space of our campus, improving the functionality and aesthetics of the lawn adjacent to the parking lot.
