Southgate Mosque Design

This project focuses on the adaptive reuse of an existing site to develop a contemporary 320 sqm mosque designed to accommodate both men and women in a comfortable, inclusive and spiritually engaging environment. The proposal aims to balance traditional Islamic architectural values with modern spatial planning, creating a functional place of worship that responds to community needs while respecting the character of the existing context.

The design concept is centred around light, geometry and openness. A large Girih skylight inspired by Islamic geometric motifs allows natural light to enter the prayer hall, creating changing reflections and shadows that enhance the spiritual atmosphere. The interior features soft curved forms, warm neutral materials and vertical wall panelling that guide the eye upwards, reinforcing a sense of calm and transcendence.

The mosque is organised to provide dedicated yet connected prayer spaces for both men and women, ensuring comfort, accessibility, and clear circulation throughout the building. The mihrab and Arabic calligraphy act as focal spiritual elements, while large glazed openings establish a visual connection between the interior and surrounding landscape.

The design process involved site analysis, precedent studies of Islamic architecture, and experimentation with digital modelling and visualisation techniques to explore daylight, materiality and spatial experience. Overall, the project reinterprets traditional mosque architecture within a contemporary framework, creating a peaceful and welcoming environment for worship, reflection and community gathering.