05/11/2025
HouseOFall -
The genesis of this masjid design began with a simple yet profound concern — a harsh west-facing façade, exposed to intense sunlight. Rather than conceal it, we sought to transform this challenge into a defining architectural opportunity. The result is a folded façade that not only mediates light but becomes a sculptural expression of both function and meaning.
In Islamic tradition, a masjid is more than a place of worship—it is a space of belonging. It is called the “house of God,” yet by extension, it must also be a house for all creation. Since God is the sustainer of all life—human, animal, and the natural world—His house should reflect this universal compassion. This belief in radical inclusivity and openness shaped the heart of the design.
Inspired by the niches found in many historic religious buildings—often inhabited by pigeons, which hold sacred symbolism across cultures—we conceived the façade as a folded skin. These folds create a series of niches, forming a sculptural landscape where birds can rest, live, or find shelter. This gesture transforms the masjid into a sanctuary not only for people but for all creatures of God.
This masjid reinterprets tradition through contemporary form. It becomes more than a place of worship—it is a poetic expression of faith, inclusivity, learning, and shelter. Rooted in Islamic values and inspired by nature, it aspires to be a house for all.
Photography -
