Sumaya Dabbagh
THE MOSQUE OF LIGHT (Mosque of Mohamed Abdulkhaliq Gargash) Enhancement of the act of worship is the main focus of the design. Facilitating transition from the day-to-day state of mind to the calm and peaceful setting during the state of worship. It is the central focus of this proposal, and is achieved with controlled use of natural light, the materiality, as well as the form. The building is simplified to its essence, which is reflected in the design, however despite moving away from the traditional appearance of the mosque it strictly follows the key principles for its typology. In the process of design development, the main building volume was separated into two: firstly, the prayer block containing the male and female prayer areas, and secondly the service block where the ablution facilities and residence for Imam and Moazen are found. As a result of this division a courtyard is formed, celebrated through the use of materials and a sculptural canopy, which reaches out to reconnect the two volumes together. The canopy above uses the same deconstructed pattern to filter direct sunlight onto the outdoor prayer area. This highlights the space as the main entrance to both volumes, and will be used as an outdoor prayer area during the month of Ramadan. The use of deconstructed traditional Islamic pattern is incorporated throughout the pilgrim’s journey from the outside to the inside of the building. The exterior paneling uses triangulated pattern in recessed and perforated elements, which gives the building skin a dynamic appearance. Internally these perforations bring in natural light into the areas of worship with great control and care to illuminate the key spaces and provide an essence of spirituality. The ‘double skin’ dome also allows natural light to enter, filtering it through the internal decorative skin, which incorporates the same triangulated pattern as the rest of the building. This filtered light creates a soft naturally lit prayer space suitable for the introspective mind during prayer.
The Mosque of Light
Asia-Oceania
Public
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
June 2021
Dabbagh Architects is an award-winning Architectural design practice based in Dubai, UAE. It is recognized regionally for its contemporary design and quality-driven service. Established in 2008 by Sumaya Dabbagh, a Saudi Architect educated in the UK, the practice set out to create contemporary Architecture that is culturally and environmentally sensitive. A timeless Architecture that creates a positive impact on the world. Since its inception, Dabbagh Architects have successfully completed a number of prestigious projects in the commercial, private and public sectors and continue to fulfil their mission through their unique innovative designs. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre as well as the recently completed Mosque of Mohammed Abdulkaliq Gargash, have been globally recognized as significant examples of a new emerging approach to Architecture in the Gulf. Both projects were nominated for an Aga Khan Award in 2018 and 2021 and won several other regional and international prestigious awards. The practice has since completed the design of the new Al Ain Museum, a recent addition to their renowned portfolio of sensitive, contextual designs. Dabbagh Architects is one of the first practices in the Gulf region to be registered as an RIBA Chartered Practice. This recognizes it as a conscious and responsible employer who is committed to maintaining the highest standards both as a design practice and an organization. Social Media links Linked-in: @Dabbagh Architects Linked-in: @Sumaya Dabbagh Instagram: @dabbagharchitects_ Twitter: @dabbagharchitects Twitter: @sumayadxb
Sumaya Dabbagh, Sandrine Quoilin, Ichraq Bouzidi, Aleksandrs Zigalovs, William Java, Hana Younes
Gerry O’Leary
Image of Architect/Designer (Portrait recommended): https://2acaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SD-headshot1-2023-10.png
Board 1 (PDF about the panel of project’s presentation and information): https://2acaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230724_2AAA_GM01-1-of-2-4.pdf
Board 2 (PDF about the panel of project’s presentation and information): https://2acaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230724_2AAA_GM01-2-of-2-4.pdf
Image of project (1500px width): https://2acaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2AAA_GM01_Hero-1.jpg
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2A Continental Architectural Awards
Average rating: 5 reviews
b.lenhardt
Oct 12, 2023
Concept and Practicality Balance: 6
Innovativeness: 6
Climate Responsiveness: 3
l.araghian
Oct 6, 2023
Concept and Practicality Balance: 9
Innovativeness: 8
Climate Responsiveness: 8
1413794236
Oct 6, 2023
Concept and Practicality Balance: 9
Innovativeness: 8
Climate Responsiveness: 9
gisela.loehlein
Oct 6, 2023
Concept and Practicality Balance: 9
Innovativeness: 9
Climate Responsiveness: 9
innovative design and execution of design strategy that leads to a modern building for religious use
Anonymous
Oct 6, 2023
Concept and Practicality Balance: 9
Innovativeness: 9
Climate Responsiveness: 10
definitely a winner