Design Principles used:
Designing a mosque involves several key principles that ensure both functionality and spiritual ambiance such as:
1- Orientation (Qibla Direction):
The mosque must be oriented towards the Qibla, the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca, which dictates the placement of the mihrab and prayer hall. The layout should lead worshippers directly into the prayer hall, culminating in a dome illuminated by natural light. This design creates a sense of being embraced and shielded from external influences, much like the comfort and security of home. It is a space where Muslims can feel completely at ease, fostering an environment conducive to worship and a profound sense of closeness to God.
2- Hierarchy in the design:
The design of the mosque features a distinct hierarchy between the service areas, which are rectangular in shape, and the main prayer hall, which is crowned with a dome. The clear, linear direction leading from the outside towards the spherical space of the dome creates a noticeable transition. This intentional contrast in shapes and orientation enhances the spiritual journey, guiding worshippers smoothly from the structured exterior into the sacred, enveloping embrace of the prayer hall.
3- Privacy:
Maintaining the privacy of worshippers, both male and female is important. This usually requires separate entrances and spaces set aside for men and women to pray.
4- Environmental Considerations (Lighting and Ventilation):
- Passive Strategy: The first technique includes covering worshippers from direct sunlight during prayer by adding a skylight to the dome. The second approach combines traditional methods with contemporary aesthetics to incorporate traditional Mashrabiya design into the dome.
- Active Strategy: A packaged system will be used throughout the mosque to guarantee thorough ventilation. The female prayer hall will also have perforated patterns and a little dome to improve ventilation and keep the interior cozy.
5- Symbolism and Aesthetics:
The mosque design's architectural language presents the fundamental components of a conventional mosque in a contemporary manner. Traditional mosques usually consist of square and rectangular designs with a minaret and dome. In contrast, the Al-Medina Mosque reconsiders these traditional principles in contemporary style. By combining two cubic shapes joined by a dome perforated with Mashrabiya, which symbolizes the city's distinct identity and context. Al-Medina's natural features, like its wadis, palms, and mountains, served as inspiration for this contemporary architecture. It also the form composition represents the Islamic customs of reading the Quran, fasting, prayer, and supplication, which serve to shield the Muslim heart from outside influences. The design underscores the importance, value, and love of prayer, emphasizing that true happiness and comfort for the Muslim spirit are found in worship.
6- Functionality and Community Engagement:
A nursery, library, lecture hall, and housing quarters for the Imam and Muadhin are among the amenities housed in the mosque, which is arranged to take advantage of ventilation. Planning of roads and entrances is done with consideration for privacy as well as accessibility. Additionally, the courtyard functions as the prayer hall's outdoor extension, supporting religious events, encouraging community involvement, and encouraging reflection on Islamic heritage.
A mosque's design traditionally includes essential elements such as orientation (qibla), a courtyard, a dome, a minaret, a prayer hall, and necessary services. While these fundamentals remain constant, advancements in technology and architectural styles have allowed architects to innovate, blending new designs with the core principles of functionality and aesthetics.
The Neighborhood Mosque in Al Madina exemplifies this harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. It upholds traditional architectural principles while incorporating contemporary design elements. For instance, the mosque employs a mashrabiya to cover the dome, serving both as a passive cooling strategy and a modern aesthetic feature. The mashrabiya's pattern mirrors the city's unique identity and natural surroundings, such as wadis, palms, and mountains.
The mosque's form is also thoughtfully designed, featuring a sphere inspired by the eyes mentioned in Al-Hadith, integrated with a rectangular shape. This sphere symbolizes the heart of a Muslim, safeguarded by the Quran and prayer from external influences. The attached rectangles represent the connection between a Muslim's home and their inner spiritual space, highlighting the balance between external and internal aspects of life. This design emphasizes the role of the home in nurturing and protecting the heart, reflecting the essential balance and harmony in a Muslim's life. Ultimately, the mosque's design respects all traditional requirements and principles while embracing a contemporary architectural style.
