Output details
16 - Architecture, Built Environment and Planning
De Montfort University
The Mosque of the Sun -
Description:
The Mosque Of The Sun is a speculative architectural project investigating solar alignment in architecture, proposing a contemporary mosque design in Qatar that illuminates at specific times in the day to indicate salat (prayer time).
The Mosque Of The Sun is a speculative architectural project investigating solar alignment in architecture, proposing a contemporary mosque design in Qatar that illuminates at specific times in the day to indicate salat (prayer time). Using multiple environmental simulation software, precise apertures and openings in the mosque are aligned to the sunpath over Qatar, enabling light to enter the prayer hall at Fajr (sunrise), Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon) and Maghrib (sunset).
How the output was developed:
A sun path model of Qatar’s solar cycle was used as a design tool in multiple digital modelling programs. This introduced precise solar alignments within an architectural typology that has strict social, historical and sacred alignments and functions, leading to a contemporary Islamic architectural language and mosque design through research of precedent, advanced technology and explorative design techniques.
Context:
Alignment, time keeping, climate, sustainability, historic context and the arabesque are considered in the context of contemporary Islamic and mosque design.
The work exists in the context of conceptual architectural design, digital fabrication and architectural representation through hybrid digital media.
Methods:
The work avoids normative orthographic drawing and representation techniques, focusing on hybrid digitally crafted 3 dimensional or 2 1/2 dimensional representations, combining laser cut and 3d printed components with traditional drafting techniques.
Multiple environmental simulation software is used to construct specific sun path models
Dissemination:
- Exhibition: The Arab Museum of Modern Art, Mathaf, Doha, Qatar (March 2013-May 2013).
- Presented: International Biennial Art and Design Conference, 2013. Hybrid Making Workshop and Design
Conference 2013
- Exhibition: Royal Academy of Arts, Summer Exhibition, London, 2012:
-Keynote Speaker: Conversations on Architecture, Cape Town South Africa, 2012
- Published: Gulf Times ‘Tasmeem Doha Seeks Dash of Creativity’ 17.01.13.
-British Sundial Society Quarterly Journal, August 2012.
Authorship:
Ben Cowd and Sara Shafiei contribute equally to the research.
