# Modern-Day Monasteries 'The Life House' by The School of Life Offers Three Ways to Find Serenity By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2016-05-23 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-life-house References: [youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jnlu4_QMfQ) & [thebookoflife.org](http://www.thebookoflife.org/the-life-house/) 'The Life House' is a new venture from philosopher Alain de Botton and his [School of Life](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/national-handloom-day) that functions as a secular monastery in Wales for the modern age. Inspired by the tradition of finding serenity in a monastery, as is done across many religions in the world, The Life House has been established as a retreat where people can find peace of mind. In collaboration with famed [minimalist architect](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/doshi-retreat) John Pawson, The Life House offers three themed rooms for finding serenity through literature, music and bathing. The School of Life is a self-proclaimed "global organization committed to psychological health and well-being," with a presence in some of the largest cities across the world. This organization provides events, teachings and a range of quirky products in its shop that are inspired by philosophy. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.7/10 - Popularity: 2% | Activity: 10% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Secular Monastery Retreats:** Secular retreat centers are emerging as a trend for individuals seeking serenity and peace of mind in the modern age. - **Themed Serenity Experiences:** The concept of themed serenity rooms, such as literature, music, and bathing, is gaining popularity as a way to promote relaxation and well-being. - **Psychological Health and Well-being:** The focus on psychological health and well-being in organizations like The School of Life is becoming a prominent trend in fostering personal growth and fulfillment. ### Where This Applies - **Hospitality and Retreat Centers:** The hospitality and retreat industry can explore opportunities in creating secular retreat centers that offer unique and themed serenity experiences. - **Interior Design and Architecture:** The field of interior design and architecture can innovate by incorporating elements of serenity and tranquility into their designs for themed serenity rooms. - **Philosophy-inspired Products and Services:** There is a potential disruptive innovation opportunity for industries that offer philosophy-inspired products and services, catering to individuals seeking personal growth and well-being. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Moody Wellness Space Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aetherhaus.md) - [Glass Philosophical Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glass-ridge.md) - [Mindful Study Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mindful-study-space.md) - [Four-Day Longevity-Focused Wellness Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-slow-retreat.md) - [Timber Monastery Campuses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/plum-village-buddhist.md) - [Minimal Timber Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zenhouse.md) - [Contemporary Work Retreat Locations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contemporary-work-retreat.md) - [Virtual Meditation Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoame-1.md) - [Barn-To-Retreat Transformations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/amassa-retreat.md)