pleated brick walls craft folding facade over java mosque by ismail solehudin architecture

"The design concept draws from the word masjid, 'place of prostration,' and expands upon the spiritual act of sujud (prostration). Inspired by the writings of Imam Al-Ghazali, the architects interpret sujud as an act that metaphorically folds the vastness of the cosmos, bringing the worshiper closer to the Divine. This metaphor of 'folding the expanse' serves as the foundation of the project's architectural language. The primary form is characterized by folding roofs and pleated walls."

"Located along a busy urban street, the mosque incorporates an arcade and a planted buffer to minimize noise and dust from surrounding traffic. The design team at Ismail Solehudin Architecture extends the mosque's folding motif through a canopy structure above the arcade, creating a gradual spatial transition from exterior to interior. This threshold space functions as both environmental protection and a contemplative approach to the prayer hall."

The design interprets masjid as a place of prostration and translates sujud into an architectural metaphor of 'folding the expanse.' Folding roofs and pleated walls form the primary architectural language, producing a dynamic identity and spatial qualities defined by natural light, shadow, and material warmth. The site strategy includes an arcade and planted buffer to reduce urban noise and dust while creating a contemplative approach to the prayer hall. A canopy above the arcade continues the folding motif and mediates exterior-to-interior transition. The arcade organizes circulation to ablution and prayer areas, with separate pathways and stacked prayer halls for men and women. The minaret is positioned along the qibla axis as a structural and symbolic marker of orientation.

Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine