Modern Trends in Mosques Architecture

Abstract

Mosque is not only a building where occupants perform a specialized and specific activity, but also it is the place where prayers can have relief by praying to the mighty God. Hence, mosques symbolize the connection between prayers and Mighty God which is reflected in both: the exterior mass and the interior design. The exterior mass of the mosque should be gigantic to depict the need of the prayer to Mighty god. The interior space should be spanned widely and unobstructed to accommodate the enormous numbers of prayers. Large areas of glass and daylighting are crucial to symbolize the direct connection between the prayers and Mighty God, as well as to allow lighting to penetrate deep into the prayer hall. This research will spot the light on the new mosque architecture trends in both building exterior mass and interior design. A comparative analysis was used to demonstrate the architectural treatments in both the ancient eras and the contemporary designs to express (1) the scale of the building mass; (2) the unobstructed and attractive interior; and (3) daylighting. The analysis shows the effect of the technological development on form, new structural innovations, materials, glazing and daylighting, and interior ornaments and decoration.