Paradoxical Modernism in Singapore’s Mosque Architecture

There are spiritual and physical symbolic values of the mosques architecture. From the birth of Islam mosque architecture appeared in a simple form but with a spiritual symbolic value, then the mosque architecture developed as Islam spread in various regions and some new elements have been added for the functional needs and numerous styles of mosques appeared as a result in the diversity of identity and culture of each region. The research discusses that symbolism is one of the cultural aspects as it is one of the humane needs which rectifies society’s identity. On the other hand the evolution of mosque architecture mentions that new elements were added for utilitarian need and lasted a period which became symbols for the mosque buildings as well, then it sheds light on the interpretation of mosque architecture with other regions that resulted in various styles of mosque architecture. Therefore, the symbolism of mosque architecture could be obtained through two points one from its key symbolic elements and the other from its relation with local architecture. Thus, the research started to search and seeks to find the reasons for lacking a known local style of mosques in Erbil city, and the lack of symbolism in them. They even have been built in such a way that contrasted with some of the Islamic regulations. The research takes the factor of "cultural aspects" as an effective factor on appearing these kinds of mosques. The research concludes that removing some elements in the mosque building which most of them has a desirable symbolic value and besides that neglecting local architecture in the design of mosques led to lose symbolism in the mosque buildings in Erbil city. Thus, a large ratio of the architects could not recognize the mosque buildings as compared to some other buildings. The thesis sheds light on the cultural background of the society (governmental parties, architects, clients, etc.) that have a distinct effect on the symbolism ratio of the mosque buildings, unlike the project cost has a little bit influence, as most of the mosques which were built by the governmental parties have low symbolic value in spite of not having problems in the cost budget. The thesis concludes another important point which is the characteristics of the site (orientation, area and number of elevations) have a positive relation with the symbolism ratio of mosque, so the research recommends governmental parties and architects to take these points into consideration in the design of mosque buildings.

Ternate Island is an archipelago in eastern Indonesia that is prone to earthquakes and volcanoes. The mosque architecture in the area developed along with the entry of Islam around the 13th century. This study was conducted to identify the development and deployment patterns of the mosque at Ternate Island and also analyze the ecological design principles and environmental adaptation in response to extreme environmental conditions. This study was performed through literature studies, field observations, and a Geographic Information System (GIS), with the study object consisting of 91 (80%) mosques. The results showed that the mosque buildings spread from the northern to the southern regions of Ternate City in a circular pattern surrounding Ternate Island by following the settlement road pattern and topography characteristics. Its development strongly influenced the city's image, where the existence of mosque buildings on almost every corner of the alley, with the dome type observed to be dominant in homogenous societies in urban areas and the traditional type in heterogeneous societies in old villages inhabited by natives or sultanate communities. Moreover, the mosque architecture was discovered to have adapted to extreme environmental conditions hundreds of years ago based on local wisdom and passive design strategies to respond to tropical climates and natural disasters. Therefore, the findings of this study are expected to inspire the design of sustainable contemporary mosques in the future, especially for archipelago cities with extreme environmental conditions.

Islamic mosques in Iran, similar to other Islamic nations, are reflections of visual beauties and typical examples of symbolic integration and relationship with strong beliefs and geometry. Scrutiny of these relationships provides a broader and profound perception of the design paradigm of these sacred masterpieces, which not only have been responding to the functional aspect of holy places but also represent an aesthetic model of architectural geometric perfection. This paper aims to survey this paradigm with a focus on its basic concepts and geometric origins; in this regard, it seeks to address the ensuing questions: what are the fundamental ideas in the design of mosques? How and which methods were used have been reflected in the architecture of mosques? How has the geometry assisted the architecture of mosques? What is the geometry role in the accomplishment of those basic concepts? To this end, after stating the fundamental concepts and dominant ideology in the design of mosques and the progress factors of Islamic architecture, their architectural features, spatial organization, and relations with geometry had been examined. The research hypothesis is that monotheism and divine unity are the original concepts of the architecture of mosques and this type of architectural design tries with the help of a range of abstract arts, symbolic materials, various methods, and science of geometry symbolize these ideas to create a sacred atmosphere and place which could be an intermediate spot for the human to achieve that divinity and unity.

PurposeMosque architecture is rooted in cultural and spiritual tradition. However, its reliance on historical forms and symbolism challenges integration with modern design practices. Hence, modern architectural approaches often find it difficult to balance various traditional Islamic aesthetics with evolving performance standards such as user comfort, material efficiency and energy performance. Furthermore, stereotyped architectural features in conventional mosque designs often fail to improve energy efficiency, structural performance or environmental sustainability. Thus, the paper aims to establish a novel methodology for multi-objective optimization in mosque architecture by developing a flexible design framework that blends modern technologies with traditional Islamic aesthetics.Design/methodology/approachThe study undertakes a comprehensive literature review to establish a theoretical foundation in Islamic architecture, mosque design attributes and optimization principles. Moreover, the research employs advanced computational tools, leveraging triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) as the primary design geometry. The study assesses various design configurations by combining AI generative-based techniques with performance-based simulations. Key criteria, such as material optimization, energy performance, structural efficiency and user comfort, are used to evaluate these combinations. Additionally, case-specific limitations and contextual applications – such as Sharjah’s hot and dry climate and its urban regulations – are used to justify the suggested solutions. Ultimately, alignment with sustainability, functionality and cultural identity is guaranteed by the iterative design and evaluation methodology.FindingsThe research demonstrates the transformative potential of integrating TPMS geometries in mosque architecture, revealing substantial improvements over traditional designs. In particular, the Neovius C(P) surface topology performs better than traditional mosque designs by improving energy performance, structural stability and material efficiency. According to computational simulations, material consumption can be remarkably reduced by up to 30% while maximizing daylighting and natural ventilation, which results in a 25% increase in energy efficiency. These results are further improved by the creative application of AI generative-based evaluations, which guarantees that the designs offer the best possible user comfort and microclimatic flexibility. Consequently, the results open the door for more resilient and sustainable Islamic buildings by demonstrating how sophisticated computational and AI-driven methods may balance modern architectural requirements with the cultural and spiritual heart of mosque architecture.Originality/valueThe research pioneers the integration of TPMS geometries in mosque architecture, presenting a novel and adaptable framework that bridges traditional Islamic aesthetics with cutting-edge computational design techniques. A novel paradigm in multi-objective optimization for Islamic architecture is presented by the study, which makes use of AI generative-based evaluations and performance-based simulations. These results demonstrate notable improvements in energy efficiency, material efficiency and user comfort, providing useful design solutions suited to hot, dry regions like Sharjah, UAE. Additionally, the presented method maintains the cultural and spiritual significance of mosque construction while addressing today’s environmental challenges. As a result, the approach and ideas offered are not limited to mosques; they offer practical tools for designing sustainable, high-performance buildings that reflect cultural values across various settings.

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the search for traditional, adapted, imitated or unique formal identity in new design approaches towards contemporary mosque architecture in sociological terms. In addition, it is aimed to measure the user’s perspective and perception, to determine the level of consciousness and awareness of the public. Method: The study consists of two parts: theoretical framework and case study. In the literature review, which is the first stage of the study, the historical development of mosque architecture, contemporary approaches and formal attempts in designs were investigated. In the second stage of the study, a survey was conducted to determine the perspectives of the participants on mosque designs. The universe of the study is the mosque users of Konya Selcuklu District. A questionnaire consisting of 95 questions in four sections was directed to the users. Results: In the results of the study, 99 valid participants were evaluated. According to the results of the survey, it has been determined that the awareness of mosque users to contemporary mosque architecture is low level and they advocate the imitation mosque architecture, which is called false historicism. Conclusion: In the study, it was determined that the attitudes of the users towards the mosque architecture, in which the traditional was copied, were positive and they supported the imitation elements used in the mosque architecture. While the attitudes of the users towards the mosque architecture in which the traditional is interpreted are positive, it is seen that they do not adopt the freely shaped mosque designs. It was revealed that the awareness level of the users should be increased, and informative seminars, conferences and TV programs should be organized by the experts.

The mosque connotes a place of prostration towards Allah. As a sacred space, mosque designs use great detail to respect specific ceremonial functions and some requirements outlined in the Quran, but accommodate diverse styles and construction materials that several traditional and cultural factors determine. As early as the seventh century, as Islam spread across the Mediterranean, North Africa, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, the mosque remained a quintessential Islamic building for local Muslim communities. Consequently, mosque architecture presents diverse styles and forms. It does not follow a normative design form besides having an essential hall to accommodate the congregation and visibly indicating the qibla. This paper explores mosque architecture designs in Brunei Darussalam to analyse expressions of cultural identity and constructions of a collective identity. Since the 1950s, mosque architecture in Brunei has distinguished itself by amalgamating designs that culturally significant historical exchanges within and beyond the Malay world dictated. The paper argues that specific governmental, social, cultural and economic contexts necessarily inform the built environment and, particularly, that of religious architecture, resulting in the development of autochthon styles.

Muslims recognize the significance of mosques as sites of worship and as centers for their religious and other activities. Various efforts are organized and designed to make mosques relevant to cultural changes and the needs of Muslims. Mosque buildings are often not identical in each region and nation, with different customs and cultures, and are sometimes even similar to other religions. In addition, the temptation of capitalism also raises questions about mosque designs that are overly grand and problematic for the socio-economic life of the community. This article aims to interrogate whether such a well-built mosque is permissible from the perspective of scholars of the four madhhabs of fiqh and the aesthetics of Muhammad Iqbal. Thus, this research uses descriptive-interpretive and textual methods to scrutinize fiqh views and analyze Iqbal's aesthetic perspective on the mosque building. The study revealed that the four madhhabs allow decorations on mosque buildings so that the mosque remains the principal place of worship and does not inconvenience the solemnity of the congregation's prayers. Furthermore, the mosque's decoration, ornamentation, design, and construction must provide meaningful objectives with practical usefulness and philosophical value; otherwise, for Iqbal, decorating a mosque in excess is wasteful and unavailing, and embellishing a mosque means squandering time and money.

A mosque is a place of worship for Muslims all over the world. A mosque is also a place to perform worship activities to gain the pleasure of Allah SWT. This study examines the influence of culture on the design of mosques in neighbouring Asian countries using qualitative descriptive methods and analyses the comparison of selected mosques. The focus is more on comparing the motifs, mimbar, and mihrab of mosques in selected Asian countries, such as Shah Alam Great Mosque, Panglima Kinta Mosque, Ipoh, and Tonson Mosque in Thailand using semiotics theory. The findings of the study found that local factors based on local lifestyle, urban development, local policies, local beliefs, local culture, and external factors such as foreign policy, national commercial policy, and foreign policy cause differences from the motifs found in the architecture of mosques. The history of the establishment of mosques in an area also influences the production of different mosque architecture. Among them, trade activities from foreign countries, such as Hindu-Buddhists and Christians, have influenced the production of motifs in mosque architecture. The use of motifs in mosque architecture carries a symbolic meaning based on cultural characteristics and ways of life closely related to the soul of the local population and brings the manifestation of art and Islam. This study proves that the manifestation of traditional jewellery does play an important role not only in spreading the symbolic meaning but also in representing the history, beliefs, and background of the local Malays.

ABSTRACK The basic concept of mosque architectural design based on Indonesian Islamic culture which up until now was regarded as an in independent approach as if no other choice in mosque designing. There is a challenge in designing process which open the opportunity to explore the more creative and innovative ideas. This new concept will reveal new perspective in design approach process. The attempt to search various resources in the process would make architecture designer expand their perception idea on mosque design. So far, the Indonesian architectural mosque has been considered to have solid and rigid concept with the dome. This study analyzes the issues of mosque architectural designing approach which have new innovative and creative design.The understanding of Islamic concept here is focused on its spiritual philosophy. Deep comprehension in Islamic concept has similarity in enthusiasm with modern architectural design concept. So the integration of both architectural Islamic design and modern architectural design concept would work sinergically and inspire new perspective in mosque designing.Hopelly, the same effort would be made by the architect or designer in design process in developing and creating the new concept, so the creative process would have more freedom Keyword: Islamic concept, Modern architecture concept, Mosque architecture project

Mosque architecture is an important part in the process of Islamizing societies whose civilizations have had influences from another system of belief prior to the conversion into Islam. The mosque provides a new substitute for a place of ritual and signifies a change in the welsthanchauung where the alien concept of mosque is integrated in the new Muslim community through the incorporation and reinterpretation of local traditional symbols and architectural designs. A fieldtrip, accompanied by a local guide, to ancient Minangkabau mosques, on the Sumatera Island, Indonesia sought to examine examples of Islamicization in mosque architecture. Interview with locals were conducted, photographs were captured and observations made were cross-referenced with available literature to validate interpretation. In these mosques, old designs, thought to be of Hindu-Buddhist origin, such as the stupa (mound-like structure), gunungan (mountain-like feature) and makara (mythical sea-creature) have been retained and incorporated in mosque designs and given new Islamic interpretation. Non-religious designs with strong local affinity such as floral and vegetal motifs using local flower and plant as inspiration are utilized to increase the aesthetic value of mosque. Other examples, like the radiant sun motifs that is peculiar only to Malay mosque, is thought to carry symbolic Islamic meaning whereas gonjong roof (buffalo horn-shaped roof), is incorporated for both cultural identity and functional purposes. In addition, new components, symbols and designs were introduced from other Islamic civilization; examples include features such as crescent and na’al (sandal) motifs.

Energy usage is significantly impacted by mosque designs, building envelops, and the use of various ventilation systems. Factors including geographic location, climate, and social and cultural origins have less significant impact on mosque architecture in Malaysia. Given Malaysia's tropical environment, social and cultural factors which might differ by region have a greater impact on mosque architecture than weather. Since Thematic Analysis (TA) is a comprehensive and successful approach in qualitative research, it has been used in this study to deepen our understanding of mosque classifications. In order to create a categorisation model for mosques, the study focuses on occupancy, design features, envelopes, and ventilation systems. Classifying mosques according to these attributes is crucial since they have an impact on energy use.

Mosque architecture is one of the most important features of Islamic architecture throughout the ages, and it is a center of intellectual and religious radiation in which Islamic civilization grew, but if there is any change affecting the identity of the mosque or its traditional concept and sacred personality influenced by advanced technology from the West with its objectives and ideas in an attempt to take advantage of the modern possibilities available, forgetting the main function and cultural spirit of mosques that annul the original values of our architecture and obliterate the local identity, privacy and belonging of the cultural heritage of the city. By identifying proposals and visions about mosque architecture and development, with regard to the philosophy of mosque design, spatial characteristics, visual dimensions, community options for the site, and building technology, the research addresses current trends and expected future visions of the architecture of contemporary mosques, which are an important pillar for Muslim communities in all Throughout the world, it remains an important center for spiritual, moral and cultural life in Muslim societies, despite the preservation of its overall spatial, visual, cultural, social and spiritual characteristics over the centuries, but the design of contemporary mosques has undergone various transformations that emphasize its centrality and adaptability to Islamic community developments. The problem of research comes in: the loss of heritage identity and originality in the designs of contemporary Arab and Islamic architecture mosques, which are characterized by the weakness of the new mosque architecture designs by the requirements: functional, security and safety, environmental and aesthetic, so that they meet the needs of the worshippers and combine between 'originality' and 'creativity' in Saudi Arabia. The research includes five main parts: the first part of the presented in terms of objectives, problems and methodology, while the second part discusses the general concepts and four directions of the architecture of the mosques of the future, the main components and design considerations and requirements for evaluating the architecture of contemporary mosques, and The third part presents the practical framework for evaluating the standards and design requirements on two mosques with different environments in (Riyadh city and Medina), to develop a governing framework for the architectural design process of the architecture of contemporary mosques, and The fourth part includes: presenting the results of the field survey of the views of worshippers and users in the mosques of the school districts to reach the general population's satisfaction with the mosques, and the research ends in the fifth part: The results of the questionnaire, the summary and the most important results and recommendations.

The mosque is a place where Muslims gather five times a day to perform their prayers. Besides being a place of worship, the mosque has been used as a multifunctional space throughout the history of Islam in the Muslim world. The spread of Islam, from Medina in the Arabian Peninsula to various regions, raised the demand for a number of places for worship. Due to different climatic and cultural conditions, local materials and indigenous architecture of different places, numerous styles of mosque architecture were evolved. Wherever Islam reached, the earliest responses to the style of mosques were indigenous. With the passage of time, the mosque architectural forms had been influenced by the changes in socio-cultural and political conditions. In Malaysia, due to British colonial influence and the migration of Muslims from India, many Mughal architectural elements in the design of mosques were incorporated. Proceeding from an analysis of Mughal architectural elements in North India, this paper investigates the influence of Mughal architecture on three Malaysian mosques of the British colonial period.

This study examines the Architecture of Sri Alam Dunia Mosque in the Sipirok District, South Tapanuli. Built in 2010, the mosque has become an icon of religious and cultural significance in the region. The research aims to elucidate the architectural characteristics of the mosque, the factors influencing its design, and its impact on the local community. The research method employed is qualitative descriptive analysis, with data collection through field observation, interviews with community leaders, and documentation studies. The findings reveal that the Architecture of Sri Alam Dunia Mosque reflects a harmony between local tradition and modernity, emphasizing both visual beauty and functionality. The mosque's design also adheres to Islamic principles in layout and ornamentation. Its impact on the local community includes increased pride and cultural identity, as well as a rise in religious tourism visits. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that mosque architecture plays a vital role in strengthening social and religious bonds within communities, while also serving as a symbol of cultural diversity and progress.

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