Marks Barfield Architects’ Cambridge Central Mosque, argues architectural writer Shukri Sultan, is a progressive turning point in the design of British mosques – and, while it didn’t triumph in this year’s Stirling Prize, its inclusive stance makes it ...
. Should the defining criteria be aesthetic, cultural or perhaps environmental? I argue for looking at how it treats its female worshippers. The Cambridge Central Mosque heralds itself as being an inclusive, female-friendly mosque; one that seeks to welcome all through its very design.
The single prayer hall for both genders, seen in the original Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, a common feature in early Islamic history, is hard to come by in contemporary Britain. This could be due to practical reasons, as mostoccupy repurposed buildings that were formerly houses, cinemas and pubs. In addition, the religious obligation of attending the Friday prayer generally falls on men. So those who run a mosque may argue that this exclusion is justified, as women do not attend as frequently.
On entering the single prayer hall, women are given a choice of whether to sit behind or in front of the series mashrabiya screens of varying heights present in the space. At the rear end of the prayer hall is another prayer space that is separated by soundproof glass. The design, led by Marks Barfield managing director Julia Barfield, caters to the needs of women with young children.
The low-rise building is devoid of towering minarets and is set back from the road with a portico and communal garden at the front. The mosque is more than just a place of worship – it is a community centre open to all. It features a self-service community café and an education room that is currently hosting an exhibition on Medieval Islamic Scientific Instruments.
Belgique Dernières Nouvelles, Belgique Actualités
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