A place of prostration: a Masjid complex in Bloemfontein
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Date
2021-10
Authors
Patel, Amirah
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Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
Salah is one of the most important duties in the life of a Muslim which is centred around the Masjid. Bloemfontein has a growing Muslim community consisting of a diverse demographic of people however, there is a lack of formal religious spaces. Salah is performed five times a day and so the Masjid is a significant space for praying, community engagement and learning. Aside from the diversity, the community is well dispersed across the city with many residents away from their extended family which means that the Masjid is an important gathering space and place of identity. This thesis aims to identify the dynamics of the current population and praying spaces to design a Masjid and community centre. Due to the diverse nature of Muslims, a more universal approach will be explored in terms of ritual and traditional aesthetics to create a Masjid that is free from stereotypical forms. As a result, the history and functions of the Masjid will be explored to create a space that orientates the congregant within the context while remaining alien. Ultimately the new design is inspired by abstract and contemporary interpretations of traditional elements to create a place of prostration.
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Dissertation (M.Arch. (Architecture))--University of the Free State, 2021, Place of prostration, Masjid, Salah, Muslim religion - South Africa