Farooq Masjid
A project by Doodling Studio
Project Architect: Sukaina Rizvi
A view of alley between masjid and adjacent building
Side view of Main entrance
View from main road
Men Prayer hall
Direct access of staircase from main Entrance
Sehan e Masjid
Men Prayer hall
Men Prayer hall
Secondary access of Masjid
Entrance from secondary access for Janaza space passing through washroom area (left) and Ablution area (right)
Entrance of Ablution area from secondary entrance
Open Ablution area for men which has access from both entrances
Main Entrance view
Way to masjid from secondary entrance ad passing through ablution space and staircase
Ceremonial Verandah space
Walking space for women
View of main entrance from inside
Entrance Verandah space
Entrance Verandah space
A look towards Sehan e masjid.
A Verandah space which acts a transition between inside out.
Ground Floor Plan
First Floor Plan
Roof Plan
Farooq Masjid is surrounded by densely populated area in Karachi, Pakistan. It is a re-design project, initially it surrounded by quadrant sehan/ open space with one side of main prayer area and three side riwaq space and two access with separate ablution area in each entrance. This mosque design is a stark contrast to its surrounding. The design is sustainable in its nature.
A significant addition to the refurbishment is the colonnaded arcade or riwaq. Contrary to typical mosque typology, the riwaq, gently wraps around the mosque in a rectangular form. A series of wide arches form the riwaq, inviting people and worshipers from all directions. White perforated cc tiles with small rectangular voids enables natural light to enter the depths of the space. The use of white extends to the tile flooring of the riwaq further emphasizing the sense of openness and lightness. The combination of the perforated CC tiles and form removes the boundary of separation between the mosque and city and creates transparency between exterior and interior spaces.
A new public space is established within the sahn or courtyard. Palm trees, rectilinear water features leading to the main entrance, and seating nurture an environment of tranquillity. The sahn is a spatial metaphor to where community, faith and the city connect and intertwine. The riwak and sahn serve not only as circulation but also where visitors can pray, read, reflect, and gather.
There are two staircases which has been introduce at both entrances, giving access to the upper women prayer area and a communal/ ceremonial hall.
At the entrance before the main prayer hall or haram, is a transitory space between external and internal. The color and material palette of the mosque’s exterior identity continues into the interior. The haram is simplistic and minimal. The mihrab indicates the direction of Mecca of prayer and is where the imam prays.
The Mosque design offers an environment where the religion and wider community can coexist as well as an experience not only for worshippers but the city as well.
