Mosque Design Research Articles

Meaning of the great mosque of Djenné: (A nonverbal communication approach)

Djenné was founded between 800 and 1250 CE, and since the 13th century, it has been regarded as a major hub for study, trade, and Islam. In 1988, UNESCO recognized the mosque, which is situated in the town of Djenné, Mali, as a World Heritage Site. Since it became a political symbol for both the locals and the French colonial master who took over Mali in 1892, the Great Mosque is regarded as one of the town's most significant structures. In sub-Saharan Africa, the Great Mosque of Djenné is perhaps the most famous architectural structure, thought to be the largest mud structure still standing in the world. Even though the mosque was in ruins for a large portion of the 19th century, the locals are proud of and protective of their mosque, and it has long been a central part of their shared identity as Djenné. Following its restoration, the French praised it as a prime example of the "Sudanese style, which has gained immense popularity throughout the sub-Saharan region and has evolved into a timeless African vernacular mosque design." Investigating the Great Mosque of Djenné's significance in terms of its materials, design, shape, function, and sociocultural sources of wellbeing is the goal of this study.

Exploring the architectural elements meaning of Masjid Agung Kubah Timah in Pangkalpinang City

The research explores the architectural significance of Masjid Agung Kubah Timah (MAKT) in Pangkalpinang City, Indonesia. Designed by renowned architect Ridwan Kamil, MAKT represents a modern synthesis of Islamic architecture, local culture, in contemporary design. The aim is to foster a deeper appreciation of the architectural significance of MAKT. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyze MAKT's architectural elements. This study has done exploring its unique features such as the Tudung Saji-inspired dome, arch portals, Mihrab, and decorative elements. Departing from traditional mosque norms, MAKT's distinctive dome design draws inspiration from the tudung saji, a local food cover, adding a layer of cultural symbolism. The richness of Islamic art through Islamic Architecture in MAKT is evident in the integration of calligraphy and geometric patterns on the Mihrab and decorative elements, encapsulating the depth of Islamic theology. Results reveal a harmonious fusion of Islamic Architecture and Pangkalpinang's cultural identity in the mosque's design. MAKT stands as an iconic building, embodying a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, contributing to the architectural diversity and cultural richness of Pangkalpinang.

Impact of Islamic Art on the Architectural Design of Mosques in Amman

Objectives: This article aims to highlight and study traditional and contemporary Islamic Art in Jordanian mosques. Methods:. Comparative analysis of Islamic Art concerning the mosque architecture in Amman, analysis of theoretical works on this topic, and historical approach. The study will also include a study of mosques in Amman. Results: When designing new mosques, architects need to study not only traditions, design experience, the space-planning solution of the mosque, and the functional organization of space but also the meaning of ornaments. The ornaments on the facade and interior, as well as various art objects in the interior, are the most expressive differences that indicate that the building belongs to the culture of Islam and forms a religion. Conclusions: Islamic art and architecture in Jordan have deep roots in the history of the religion. Many buildings and structures were built during the reign of the Umayyads, Abbasids, and other dynasties, who left their mark on architecture and design. Islamic sculptures and decorations also reflect Jordan's culture and heritage richness.

The Effects of Modern Architecture on the Evolution of Mosques in Sulaymaniyah

Since the establishment of the Kurdistan Region Autonomy in 1991, extensive construction, including that of mosques, has reshaped the architectural environment. This phenomenon requires an examination of the evolved architectural features in new mosques and also raises questions about their alignment with the religious and symbolic objectives of mosque designs. This study focuses on the transformative impact of modern architectural styles on mosque evolution in Sulaymaniyah and uses an in-depth case study approach to analyze 23 contemporary mosques built over the past three decades. They blend traditional architecture with modern design principles, producing evolved features. The evolution in mosque designs raises questions about the alignment of new architectural features with the religious and symbolic objectives of mosque designs. This study employs indicator-based impact assessments to examine how modern features affect mosque evolution in terms of religious needs and mosque symbolism. Based on the literature of modern architecture and Islamic legitimacy, indicators of modern architecture and mosque design objectives were determined for further analysis. Then, the collected data from the field survey were analyzed through developed formulas. The results were converted to numerical values for use with the Pearson correlation coefficient, which identifies the causal relationship between modern architecture and design objectives. The results revealed that the overall influence of modern architecture on mosque evolution tends to be negative. Modern architectural styles have impacted mosques by increasing structural obstructions in 14%, reducing symbolic elements in 23%, and simplifying designs with fewer embellishments in 43% of all the cases. This study can assist decision-makers and designers in revising mosque design regulations; the issue has recently been the subject of ongoing debate in architects’ society.

The Mosque of the Blessed Tree in Safawi, Jordan

The Mosque of the Blessed Tree in Mafraq, Jordan represents a revival of Islamic architectural heritage. Situated near an ancient terebinth tree where the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have rested, the mosque was erected according to traditional building techniques and Islamic principles. The design, led by MAS Design Office, involved careful integration of local materials along with load-bearing structures. Despite challenges, including limited time and budget constraints, the project was completed in six months. The mosque's design emphasizes simplicity and balance, with features such as a central dome, shallow domes in prayer halls, and pinnacles echoing traditional minarets. The project also involved training local craftsmen in complex stonemasonry techniques.

Karakteristik Fisik Arsitektur Islam pada Bangunan Masjid di Kecamatan Curup Tengah Kabupaten Rejang Lebong

This study explores the characteristics of Islamic architecture in Curup Tengah, an area with geographic, cultural, and traditional contexts distinct from the origins of Islamic architecture in Arabia. This study focuses on the adaptation of Islamic architecture to local contexts and community needs, as well as its influence on the appication of Islamic architectural elements in mosques. This study aimed to analyze and describe the characteristics and implementation of Islamic architectural elements, including domes, minarets, calligraphy, geometry, floral motifs, prayer halls, mihrabs, pulpits, porticos, ablution areas, study spaces, ventilation and natural lighting. The methodology employed is qualitative research with a descriptive comparative approach, utilizing data collection through observations, interviews, questionnaires, and relevant literature reviews. The finding indicate that mosques in Curup Tengah generally lack minarets and instead optimize doors and windows for natural ventilation, avoiding the use of artificial cooling systems. The application of Islamic architectural elements in these mosques remains limited, with only eight to twelve of the total thirteen elements being implemented. This research enhances the understanding of how Islamic architectural elements are applied and offers valuable insights for future mosque design in Curup.

Speech intelligibility evaluation of small-scale mosque with multiple domes design

PurposeMosques are built with dome-shaped ceilings for communal worship with common architectural styles worldwide for prayer. Since the acoustics of worship buildings are just as significant as their aesthetics, they should enhance people’s sense of hearing. This study evaluates the speech intelligibility of a small mosque with multiple domes to determine the space acoustic conditions.Design/methodology/approachThe investigation involved extensive literature reviews to collect relevant data to model the case study. The Enhanced Acoustics Simulator for Engineers (EASE) software program was used to integrate critical parameters such as the absorption coefficient of materials, dome shapes and the number of domes in the simulation. The study employed speech intelligibility parameters such as C50, S.T.I. and %ALcons to assess the acoustic conditions. The assessment model was validated through statistical analysis and a paired t-test.FindingsThe study discovered that varying shapes of the multiple domes showed no significant impact on speech intelligibility. However, different multiple domes materials resulted in significant disparities in speech intelligibility. Applying high-absorption materials in multiple dome designs achieved the most effective acoustic performance. Except for C50 in some circumstances and receiver positions, all other alternatives met the optimal value for overall speech intelligibility because the sound was not sufficiently diffused early on, suggesting that the early reflection sounds were either weak or insufficient.Originality/valueThis study not only helps to determine the multiple-dome effect on mosque acoustics but also empowers archaeoacoustics and historic conservation by documenting these significant places of worship. The findings advocate using high-absorption materials in multiple dome designs and offer practical insight into mosque design material selection. By enhancing the understanding of the acoustic conditions in small-scale mosques, this study equips architects, engineers and builders with the knowledge to create spaces prioritizing speech clarity and intelligibility.

Optimizing green sustainable mosque criteria : A case study of Trisakti University nagrak campus mosque design

Trisakti University initiated a campus master plan that elevates the criteria of green buildings in its planning. One of the facilities in the master plan is the campus mosque. In the modern era, the roof design of the mosque tries to get out from the paradigm of the Andalusian and Mediterranean domed roofs. This study aims to determine optimal design strategies for implementing the green building concept on campus mosque design. Simulation methods are applied using Autodesk Revit to create the main mosque design of Trisakti University Nagrak Campus. BIM models can be more accurately integrated into simulated, analyzed, and decided schematic designs. Based on the simulation results of the square bowl roof design, it optimized the maximum power obtained from Photovoltaic is 1.369.104 kWh/year and can harvest rainwater 22,507,929.6 Liters per year. In Addition, in the surrounding parks, which can be used as additional outdoor prayer spaces, the concept of integrated bio-pores and composter is applied, which can increase the absorption of rainwater that precipitates in the surrounding area of the mosque, increase groundwater reserves in the environment, and maximalize sustainable mosque design.

Türkiye ve Endonezya’da Camilerin Mekân Özellikleri Açısından Karşılaştırmalı Olarak İncelenmesi

This study aims to compare the spatial features of mosques in Turkey and Indonesia, both predominantly Muslim countries. The introduction provides a general definition of religion and highlights the significance of religious structures. It explains that religion is a belief system and emphasizes the importance of religious structures for societies. The formation and development of religious buildings often rely on sacred texts, rituals, moral principles, and societal rules. Mosques are significant religious spaces where Muslims gather for collective worship. They contribute significantly to areas such as culture, architecture, and art. However, this study scrutinizes and reviews the differences and similarities in the design, implementation, and use of mosques in Turkey and Indonesia, taking into account academic studies on the subject. In both countries, mosques are built in two different styles: Classical and modern. The study examines well-known mosques in Turkey, including the Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Suleymaniye Mosque (classical style) and the Şakirin Mosque and the Sancaklar Mosque (modern style). The study includes classical style mosques such as the Al Mahsun Grand Mosque and the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, as well as modern style mosques like the Istiqlal Mosque and the Babuttaqwa Utama Mosque in Indonesia. These mosques were chosen as prominent examples based on the time periods they were built, their purposes of construction, their current uses, and their impact on their respective contexts. Although there have been numerous academic studies on mosque architecture in Turkey and Indonesia, there is a lack of literature that comparatively examines mosque architecture formation in the context of cultural and spatial differences between these two cultures. This gap highlights the importance of the current study.

Reading the Examples of Modern Mosques in Turkey Through Semiotics

Abstract In this study, three different mosques built after the modern period in Türkiye are analysed from an architectural point of view. The aim of the research is to make sense of the messages intended to be conveyed through worship structures and to read the messages conveyed through these structures within the framework of semiotic theory. Using the semiotic method, each building is analysed in terms of context and environment analysis, design principles and style, function, plan scheme, spatial analysis, structure, facade character and symbolic forms. In addition, the buildings are analysed in terms of Günther Fischer’s value criteria (location, size-measure, material, form, arrangement) and Ferdinand de Saussure’s semiotics. The method will help us understand the multidimensional meanings of architectural structures, and the importance of the study is emphasised by the fact that it provides a better understanding of the place of these structures in the cultural and social context. This research makes an important contribution to the understanding of the approaches followed in modern mosque designs and shows how the messages conveyed through architectural structures can be interpreted using semiotic theory. By shedding light on the design processes of modern mosques, it reveals the decisive role of context in this process. As a result of the evaluation, it is concluded that context is the most influential factor in modern mosque design, while other elements are shaped based on context.

An Evaluation of Dome Architecture in Bengal: Historical Development and Comparative Analysis

In Bengali architecture, domes were commonly found in mosques and palaces. It has become our national architectural identity, influenced by Muslim kings. The dome was first utilized in mosques but is currently found in other structures. Permanence was the dominant feeling in the dome. The dome’s style varies from time to time. Muslims attempt to alter buildings’ design, form, and style using domes in many buildings. That is why we can observe different types of domes. The Muslim style was the first to have an influence, followed by the rural hut style. Mosques are occasionally categorized based on their dome designs. The idea of dome design has evolved over time to accommodate the desires of both the ruling class and the general populace. Mosques worldwide shared specific characteristics, even though Muslims had a highly developed style of mosque design characterized by arches, domes, minarets, and mihrabs. A distinct Islamic architectural style was created when Muslims introduced this architectural element into the region’s customary architectural lexicon. Muslim designers considered and investigated Bangladesh’s environment, available local materials, and the experienced craftspeople who made them. Since then, the Bengal region’s architectural characteristics have changed due to the valuation of the mosque’s dome. Most mosques’ interpretations of the fundamental principles of Islam are domes, and this study shows how the morphology of these structures has changed over time and pinpoints the key elements that have influenced this development.

ISLAMIC AND WESTERN HYBRID SYMBOLS IN CONTEMPORARY MOSQUE ARCHITECTURE IN INDONESIA'S REFORM ERA

In Indonesia, there is an ongoing trend toward a rise in modern mosque architecture without domes and traditional identity. Although contemporary mosque architecture is increasing in Indonesia and the world, the concept still generates debate among Islamic society and intellectuals. This study aims to analyze how the conception of symbols and meaning, the architectural style of contemporary mosques in the Indonesian Reformation Era can be accepted by society. The study method is qualitative, by applying library and research field studies. Procedure data collection using method interview, observation, and documentation. The objects of his research are the Assamawaat Mosque-Tangerang, Muhammadiyah PP A-Tanrim Mosque-Central Jakarta, Jami' Darussalam Mosque-Central Jakarta, Al Azhar Bekasi Mosque, Asmaul Husna Bekasi Mosque, Al Safar KM88 Mosque-Cipularang, Merapi Mosque-Jogyakarta, Al Ikhlas Mosque /Honeycomb-Sidoarjo's. This research applied the theory of Roland Bartes semiotic approach; the sacred and profane meaning, Charles Jenks theory to obtain the Symbol Theory of contemporary mosque architectural styles in the Indonesian reform era, and Sayyed H Nasr for Philosophy of Islamic architecture. The findings and results of the study are Contemporary Mosque Architecture in Indonesia, Symbolizing the Hybrid of Islam, and the West. So, Islamic and Western cultures live and develop well in Indonesia. I recommend the results of this research to architectural practitioners, academics, and the public to be applied to contemporary mosque designs.

BEAUTIFYING MOSQUES, ENHANCING WORSHIP: THE FIQH PERSPECTIVE OF FOUR MADHHABS AND MUHAMMAD IQBAL'S AESTHETIC CONCEPT

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.

Application and trends of motifs and styles on mosque ornamentation in Malaysia: from traditional to global

Mosque architecture in Malaysia has experienced a phase of development from the 16th century to the present. Moreover, mosque design and styles have various typologies which are heavily influenced by sociocultural factors. The diversity of the architectural design of this mosque also displays the development of Islamic culture and civilization which contains various historical backgrounds and influences, as well as having different timelines. However, this diversity of architectural language creates confusion about identity in the Malaysian mosque scenario. The study also found that there is a lack of documentation studies on the development of ornamentation that includes mosque architecture from the traditional to the global era. Therefore, this study aims to document the development of mosque ornamentation in six different eras in Malaysia and obtain the evolution in the application of motifs and styles. The study consists of 28 case studies of a selected iconic mosque which represent six different eras and adopted mix method strategy including content analysis and frequency analysis to track the pattern of changes and trends. The research findings show that changes in ornamentation involve several factors such as regional, colonialism, political, economic, and sociocultural has shaped the influences and styles of Malaysian mosques. This study also important in explaining the development of aesthetic preference and the application of ornamentation across the eras as well as classifying the style of ornamentation in each era of architecture to enrich the discourse of architecture in Malaysia and build a framework of ornamental design features that have a national identity.

A Documentation of Environmentally Sustainable Mosque in Malaysia

Numerous mosques design in Malaysia disregards the environment which makes the mosque less comfort. For the past 30 years, mosque designs in Malaysia have evolved and are primarily based on the expectations of decision makers and the public (post modernism period). However, there are several mosques in the twenty-first century incorporate sustainability into their design that need to be documented for future research. According to the findings, instead of Masjid Raja Haji Fisabilillah, Cyberjaya, there are 4 more mosques practise sustainable design in Malaysia. These mosques have a good sense of environmental design which gives comfort to the occupants. The study conducted qualitatively from the secondary data source and on field observation. The data is compiled through descriptive analysis of sustainable characteristic implemented in the selected mosques. The propose of this paper is to document sustainable mosques in Malaysia and contribute ideas for future mosque design. This paper will be the reference for the authors to continue detail study of the sustainable mosque in the future.

Studi Historis dan Analisis Arsitektur Masjid Jamik Silalas Sei Deli, Kecamatan Medan Barat

The integration of Islamic and cultural values, as well as local values in the Medan Barat Subdistrict, is marked by the emergence of new architectural representations in mosque design within the sacred realm of religious activities. This article examines the historical trajectory and architectural development of Jamik Silalas Sei Deli Mosque in the Medan Barat Subdistrict, encompassing its historical establishment, construction, and changes in the orientation of Islamic architectural styles over time. This study falls under the purview of Islamic architectural history and is a qualitative research endeavor employing historical research methods, including source collection, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography, with a specific focus on the Islamic architectural arts. The study reveals that the evolution of Islamic architecture at Jamik Silalas Sei Deli Mosque is influenced by the changing eras and local values in determining the mosque's development model. Furthermore, from a sociological perspective, the values embodied in this architectural art serve as a representation of the social and religious climate, which tends to be integrative within the community.

Sustainable Mosque Designs from the Perspectives of Social Inclusion: Comparisonsof Four Mosques in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

One of the major conflictscontinuously occurring in Malaysia is the issue of race and religious relationships. Today, houses of worship in Malaysia have always been seen as isolated entities that can add to race relations and nation-building conflicts. This issue has led to the planning of houses of worship as nation-building elements in forging social inclusion among the different religious buildings of other faiths. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate mosques' social inclusion characteristics, which can contribute to the more extensiveframing of Malaysian planning policy on the sustainable designof houses of worship. Toreflect the ideal of SDG 11, Sustainable cities and communities and SDG 16, Peace, justice and strong institutions, it is essential to identify social inclusivity as one of theprimarydesign approachesforany Islamicinstitutionsand mosques designs. Should the mosques be part of the nation-building entities and notjust community centres for each faith? This research covers selected case studies mainly inKuala Lumpur, representing the city with the most educated and diverse multi-faith context. Four significant mosques were selected and studied through observationsand interviews data collection approach. The research findings indicate that elements such as scale, massing, permeability, visibility, territoriality, and iconic imagery are essential to design criteria for mosques. Significantly, this research provides suggestionsand guidelines for designers and committee leaders of all religions in Malaysia to re-look at the activities and planning aspects of their houses of worship. Furthermore, it helps to promoteinclusive elements such as social interaction, tolerance, and understanding of different religious beliefs. Hence, accepting these multi-faith centres will create a moreintegrated, harmonious and sustainable community.

Kajian Langgam Pada Bangunan Masjid Raya Bogor

The mosque is a place of worship for the Muslim community which has the capacity for a large number of congregations, over time the mosque is not only a place of worship but the mosque can also be a place for socializing in religious matters, in every city and region it has its own characteristics regarding the design and style that is in the mosque. The style of a marker or pattern on a building based on a certain period is usually the style of the mosque found on the exterior and interior of the building such as the shape of the door, the shape of the column, the shape of the roof, the shape of the ceiling and so on. The research method used in this research is descriptive qualitative by searching and collecting data related to research from journals, literature, books and direct surveys to research locations. The results of the research are knowledge of what styles exist in the Al-Mi'raj mosque (Masjid Raya Bogor) and find out which form of mosque design follows.

Kuwait's circular prototype mosque design: a history and comprehensive evaluation

PurposeThis study evaluates the architectural status of circular prototype mosques in Kuwait. The argument is that the once dominant and powerful image of mosques is now merely a repetitive reproduction through the prototype scheme. The study focuses on the circular prototype design, which has been constructed in many of Kuwait's recent residential areas. It evaluates qualitatively the worshipers' experiences of these mosques.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology is qualitative. The main question is how well the circular prototype mosques are received by worshipers and local communities. Various research methods were used, including walk-through survey and group interview with worshipers and semi-structured interview with key informants in Public Authority for Housing Welfare and Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. Purposive sampling was chosen to select for key informants. Time-location sampling was selected for worshipers' group interview.FindingsCircular prototype presents several weaknesses. The community did not receive the circular design well as it deviates from the traditional and modern rectangular mosque design prevalent in Kuwait. This research highlights the importance of considering traditional design principles, community preferences and functional requirements while designing a mosque. It also emphasizes the need for an extensive evaluation of prototype designs to identify potential weaknesses before proceeding with the final design.Social implicationsIt is recommended that future mosque design projects in Kuwait consider traditional design principles; community preferences; and financial, functional and sustainability requirements. In addition, the findings of this study can be used to inform future mosque design projects in Kuwait and to ensure that they are functional, cost-effective and well received by the community.Originality/valueThis research provides an informative and comprehensive analysis of Kuwait's prototype mosque designs from the 1950s to the present day. It focuses on the current circular prototype, critically examining its advantages and disadvantages. This research is the first to evaluate the history and design improvements over the years. As such, this research offers invaluable information to those interested in Kuwait's religious architecture and cultural history.

Akulturasi Arsitektur Bangunan Cina pada Masjid Agung Sang Cipta Rasa Cirebon

This research explores the phenomenon of acculturation of Chinese building architecture at the Sang Cipta Rasa Grand Mosque in Cirebon, an exciting case of combining Islamic architecture and traditional Chinese elements. The main focus of this research is to understand how Architectural Chinese elements are integrated into the design of mosque buildings in a harmonious and meaningful way. This research method involves a multidisciplinary approach, including literature analysis, visual observations, and interviews with architects and local historians who have in-depth knowledge of mosques and cultural acculturation in the region. The research results reveal that Grand Mosque successfully created an architectural masterpiece that skillfully combines Chinese Architectural elements. Elements such as a curved Chinese- style roof with decorative ornaments reminiscent of Chinese culture, columns, pillars with distinctive traditional carvings, and decorative motifs on the walls illustrate the influence of Chinese architecture integrated into the mosque's design. Despite the strong Chinese influence, this building maintains the essence of Islam and local culture. This research contributes to understanding how cultural acculturation can be reflected in the physical form of buildings, especially in religious contexts. The results of this research can be a valuable reference for the planning and development of future structures that harmonize elements from different cultures while respecting the values and goals of each culture involved.