The Influence of Cultural Diversity on the Art of Mosque Design in Asian Countries

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.

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.

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 influx of Chinese people into Malaya occurred in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The influence of Chinese culture on the architecture of old Malaysian mosques is one of the implications of their presence. Acculturation is the process by which a foreign culture enters a society. For example, the architecture of the mosque, which displays form from the acculturation of Malay and Chinese cultures, resulting in a unique form. As a result, the objective of this research is to investigate the existence of the Masjid Lama Machap (MLM) Malacca Mosque through art forms and acculturation outcomes from two different cultures. To explain this, the researcher employs a qualitative descriptive research method with a cultural focus. Written and visual data were collected using methods such as interviews and observations. The study's findings indicate that there is a distinct cultural acculturation at Malacca's Old Machap Mosque (MLM). The design of the pyramid roof, roof crown, decoration, and minaret all contribute to the incorporation of Chinese culture in this mosque. Acculturation of existing cultures does not annihilate some existing cultures, but rather complements and coexists with them. This mosque's form of acculturation is a treasure trove of local culture and architecture. Aside from that, this study can provide a clearer picture of the development of the previous Islamic community's architecture in the Malay world and is expected to serve as a reference for researchers today as they further develop ideas in architectural planning and interior design.

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.

The Wapauwe ancient mosque in Maluku is historically and culturally significant, symbolizing the enduring bond between religion and the local community. This qualitative archaeological study examines the mosque's architectural aspects to explore this connection. The mosque is considered a result of careful thought and reflects origin-related factors and human behavior through its architectural elements. The Wapauwe Mosque shares similarities with ancient mosques found throughout the archipelago. Its three-tiered roof typology, supported by four pillars and a distinctive peak, represents the three stages of Islamic development, showcasing the integration of Islamic principles with local culture. The two-tiered roof of the Wapauwe Kaitetu mosque signifies an ongoing dialogue between religious scholars and the indigenous people, leading to architectural adaptations. Furthermore, the mosque's design elements carry symbolic meanings. The peak symbolizes monotheism and male fertility, while the pineapple-shaped pegs embody the fusion of animal carvings and flora. The rectangular plan signifies the influence of customs and religion, and the mimbar type reinforces the growth and development of religious traditions. Architecturally, the Wapauwe mosque features 12 supporting pillars, corresponding to the 12 fundamental values of Islamic teachings—comprising the five pillars of Islam, six pillars of faith, and Ihsan. This alignment also mirrors the concept of deliberative custom, which includes 12 institutional structures. These structures coexist and interact with the religious hierarchy and its apparatus, demonstrating a balanced and inclusive relationship between religion and locality within the governance of Maluku. Ultimately, the typology of the Wapauwe mosque emphasizes the deep connection between Islam and local culture. It serves as a testament to the culturally inclusive religious character of the community. This cultural Islamic society respects differences and embraces diversity as an integral aspect of religious teachings

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.

The construction of mosques holds exceptional importance within Islamic architecture, and these places can be considered as one of the most significant manifestations of Islamic art and architecture. Since there have been fewer studies specifically focusing on mosques in Egypt during a particular period within Islamic countries, our research aims to investigate how the architecture of mosques during the Mamluk period in Egypt was influenced by Iranian architecture. To achieve this, a number of mosques relevant to the studied period were examined using a descriptive-analytical approach. Based on the research findings, the utilization of Iranian architecture in Egyptian mosques demonstrates its cultural and artistic influence among Islamic countries. Considering that Mamluk architecture represents a historical period in the Islamic world and its outstanding contributions are evident in valuable structures such as mosque architecture, it is notable that as we witness changes in governing authorities throughout Egypt's historical eras, we also observe corresponding transformations in mosque architecture. Ultimately, it can be said that mosque architecture in Egypt has evolved in accordance with the worldviews of governing powers in each era, with the Mamluk architecture heavily influenced by the architecture of the Seljuk period in Iran.

This paper discuss the formal and symbolical meaning of triangular shape of contemporary mosque architecture in Indonesia, with case study the mosques designed by Ridwan Kamil in Jakarta and in rest area Km 88 toll road between Jakarta and Bandung. There was a question in the public whether the triangular shape was adequate to be used as a mosque building. This paper propose answers with the analitical descriptive to understand the symbolical meaning of triangle shape used Sundanese community culture, one of Indonesian ethnics as representation. The paper used comparation and interpretation method to reveals the meaning of triangle shape in local culture and to find the connection to triangle shape in contemporary mosques architecture. The vernacular mosques in Indonesia known with their pyramid shape stacked roof with pointed roof in the peak. The pointed roof derived from the mountain that believed as the sacred place and used as symbol in the form of stacked roof of mosque. The finding of this paper is that triangular form can be accepted as mosque architectural form for the symbolical meaning derived from Sundanese culture. In the two mosques, this triangle shape enlarged and become praying room and as bridge to the God realm. The shape then achieved two purpose, as symbol of holy place and also fullfiled the function of praying room.

The Influence of Cultural Diversity on Project Management Competence Development – The Mediterranean Experience

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.

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

This paper examines the paradoxes of applying modernist architectural principles, rooted in secular, functional ideals, to mosque design during the initial phase of Singapore’s Mosque Building Fund (MBF) from 1977 to 1983. Drawing on archival plans, photographs, and newspaper articles, it explores how national objectives shaped mosque construction, resulting in what this paper terms “paradoxical” Modernism: architectural outcomes that adapt modernist ideals to meet the Malay/Muslim community’s spiritual, symbolic, and communal needs. Rather than signalling deficiency, the term highlights the negotiated tensions between state planning and religious expression in a postcolonial context. It examines the collaboration among the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS), architects from the Housing Development Board (HDB), and the Mosque Building Committee (Jawatankuasa Pembinaan Masjid, JPM), focusing on how these partnerships balanced planning objectives with community feedback. The resulting mosque designs attempted to reconcile modernist forms with Malay/Muslim perceptions of appropriate mosque aesthetics and functions. The study analyses how modernist idioms, the International Style and Brutalism, were used to reinterpret Indo-Saracenic elements such as domes, minarets, and arches into simplified, geometric forms across seven MBF mosques: Muhajirin (1977), Mujahidin (1977), Assyakirin (1978), An-Nur (1980), Al-Ansar (1981), Al-Muttaqin (1980), and En-Naeem (1983). The analysis is structured around three key areas: first, a discussion of mosque designs influenced by modernist idioms; second, how Indo-Saracenic forms were adapted to fit these idioms; and third, the integration of elements such as open courtyards and balconies. Finally, the paper addresses how redevelopment pressures have led to modifications or demolition of these buildings. These changes reveal the “paradoxes” not as flaws, but as signs of how architecture responded to evolving community needs and planning priorities. Instead, these mosques should be recognised as culturally significant reflections of their time’s socio-political conditions, raising broader questions about conserving modernist religious architecture in Singapore.