HIKMA – A Religious and Secular Complex | atelier masōmī + studio chahar
Designers: atelier masōmī + studio chahar
Designed by atelier masomi + studio chahar, In the 9th century AD, Muslim scholars made remarkable contributions to the sciences and humanities in Bagdad’s Bayt al-Hikma, or House of Wisdom, a library and research center housing the world’s largest collection of books for scholars to engage both theological and scientific matters. Today’s religious climate could use such freedom to pursue knowledge alongside religious practice. With the support of local leaders, women, and youth, the Hikma project re-introduces these values embedded in Islam itself, by transforming a derelict mosque into a library that shares its site with a new mosque for the village of Dandaji in Niger. The project is a culture and education hub where the secular and religious peacefully co-exist to cultivate minds and strengthen the community.
To renovate the old building to its previous glory, the original masons are invited to join the project’s team. In the process, they learn about adobe-enhancing additives and erosion protection techniques. Instead of the region’s traditional but scarce wood, the interior renovation uses metal for study spaces, partitions, stairs, and a mezzanine level, as a contemporary touch to a traditional space.
The new building, in turn, re-interprets traditional Hausa mosque organization with contemporary structural support and detailing. Its two blocks and outdoor prayer space are suited to daily prayers, Friday assemblies, or large Eid celebrations. The dialog between the formal structures of the old and new leads to further collaboration between the traditional masons and the construction crew.
The programmed complex includes a 1000-person mosque including two main worship spaces, two ablution spaces, and a Minaret, 2 bedroom lodgings for the Imam of the mosque, a library, classrooms, reading and studying spaces, a hands-on workshop area, children’s play area, and a garden. The main construction material for the project is Compressed Earth Bricks (CEB) made from soil that is found near the site, which provides better thermal performance and lowers energy consumption. It also lowers the cost of construction.
Project Info: Architects: atelier masomi, studio chahar Location: Niger Year: 2018 Photographs: James Wang, Mariama Kah Project Name: HIKMA – A Religious and Secular Complex
Gurgaon’s architecture reflects the rapid transformation of a once-sleepy suburb into one of India’s most dynamic urban centers. Characterized by its striking skyline of glass-clad towers, corporate parks, and luxury residences, the city embodies a blend of modernism and global urban aspirations. Contemporary architecture in Gurgaon emphasizes verticality, smart technology, and sustainable design, with green-certified […]
Architecture in Goa is an ever-evolving dialogue between tropical modernism and cultural heritage. Known for its scenic coastline, Portuguese influences, and laid-back charm, Goa carries an architectural identity that seamlessly merges history with contemporary living. In recent years, architects in Goa have been redefining the state’s built environment by blending vernacular wisdom with innovative, sustainable […]
Nestled in the vibrant urban setting of Balaji Nagar, Sangli, The Red Abode with a terracotta facade redefines contemporary living with its seamless integration of modern design and nature. Designed for an IT professional seeking tranquility and inspiration, this project exemplifies how architecture can foster harmony between the built environment and the natural world. A […]
This bungalow in Udaipur, Rajasthan, designed for the Gandhi family, exemplifies a refined blend of modern contemporary architecture with subtle regional sensitivity. The zoning and design is grounded in clean lines, bold geometric volumes, and a sophisticated interplay of materials. The façade combines natural travertine, matte black cladding, and warm wood for contrast and harmony. […]
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Swarnabhoomi, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Ivory Courtyard is more than just a residence—it is an architectural statement that harmoniously blends Indian traditional values with modern contemporary living. With its pristine ivory colour exterior symbolising purity and sophistication, this home stands as a beacon of elegance and comfort for the two families […]
“Even within the smallest green lies all the purity and freshness of Eden.” This idea became the seed for Eden Moss, a home nestled in an ecological environment and imagined as a breath of freshness, evoking the scent of mud after rain, and seamlessly intertwined with nature while still embracing comfort and contextual charm. Nestled […]
Nestled in what was once a coconut orchard, Sanctum serves as a sanctuary for a retired couple. Their daughter & a feline companion join them to offer a tranquil environment for everyday goings-on. The site is a 60’ x 90’ portion of land with six coconut trees. Two teak wood & silver oak trees, each […]
Tucked into the calm, tree-lined lanes of Nagarbhavi in Bangalore, Avani Residence rises as a poetic response to the chaos of the city, a vertical sanctuary where light dances, materials breathe, and space unfolds in gentle rhythms. Designed by Archemist Architects for a family of four, the residence is a nuanced interplay between constraint and […]
Adorn, a home filled with earthen design and the laughter of a family of four, nestles in the peaceful neighborhood of Selvapuram, Coimbatore. “On one side, it shares boundaries with cozy family homes; meanwhile, the other side opens to expansive fields dotted with tall trees.” The fresh air scented with greenery sets a calming atmosphere […]
The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]