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Journal : Journal of Islamic Architecture

Mosque for All, Socio-Spatial Inclusion in Mosque Architecture: The Case of Türkiye Gün, Ahmet
Journal of Islamic Architecture Vol 8, No 3 (2025): Journal of Islamic Architecture
Publisher : Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Maliki Malang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18860/jia.v8i3.27138

Abstract

Today, the design and management of the mosque are subject to criticism in many ways, like not being responsive to the needs of different user groups and causing socio-spatial justice problems between genders and generations. This study examines the extent to which mosques provide socio-spatial inclusion by analyzing problems experienced in mosques, user satisfaction, and user perceptions of the socio-spatial inclusiveness of mosques. Methodologically, an online survey was conducted with 521 participants living in Türkiye. In addition, a workshop will be held with 17 participants who are currently involved in research on mosque design to develop proposals at a strategic level to address the identified issues. This study reveals that there are critical socio-spatial problems faced by users in mosques: (1) problems of representation inequality in decision-making about the design and management of mosques (the gaps of representation equality), (2) limited responsiveness to users' spatial expectations due to the neglect of the needs of important stakeholders such as women, children and youth in society (3). Only a very limited group of users (18.4%) are satisfied with the spatial experience in mosques. Additionally, almost one-third of the respondents (30.1%) perceive mosques as 'middle-aged or elderly male-dedicated spaces,' with this perception being more prevalent among women and young people. At the end of the study, we discuss the socio-spatial dimensions that will form the basis for a “Mosque for All”.
Exploring The “Living Mosque”: Usage Patterns, User Preferences, and Functional Expectations in Mosque Architecture Gün, Ahmet
Journal of Islamic Architecture Vol 8, No 4 (2025): Journal of Islamic Architecture
Publisher : Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Maliki Malang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18860/jia.v8i4.27627

Abstract

Mosque spaces and facilities traditionally serve as places where Muslim communities can pray, gather, and socialize. However, the functional role of the mosque in social life has begun to decline. This study addresses the question: How are mosques currently used, and to what extent do these spaces meet users' expectations? To explore this, an online survey was conducted with 521 participants from Türkiye, examining their usage patterns, preferences, and functional expectations regarding mosque experiences. Additionally, a workshop was conducted to develop strategic-level proposals on the identified issues. The findings highlight a disjuncture between how mosques are currently used and their potential utilization. The study also identifies discrepancies between the priorities of academia and architectural media compared to those of the general community, as well as gaps between the socio-spatial functions offered by mosques and those desired by the public. Notably, only 18.2% of respondents feel that mosques adequately meet their functional needs. Moreover, mosque usage patterns, as well as functional expectations, were found to vary significantly based on users' gender, age, and education levels. The public wishes to experience the mosques as the center of education, culture, and social life. This study contributes to the field by introducing the "Living Mosque" concept, providing a comprehensive analysis of mosque usage and perceptions in Türkiye, and shedding light on the gaps between existing practices and user expectations. It also proposes strategic-level solutions for enhancing mosque facilities, providing valuable insights for future research, and practical improvements in mosque design and management