Multi-faith centres are inclusive spaces that encourage dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among people from various religious backgrounds. They provides a space where people of differing religious beliefs can spend time in contemplation or prayer (Center for Architecture, 2023). These spaces promote diversity and unity through shared values and interfaith harmony. They provide a neutral setting for worship, dialogue, and community-building, contributing to inclusivity. The significance of these centres in promoting inclusivity and diversity lies in their celebration of diverse religious traditions and encouragement of interaction among different faiths. They also foster open dialogue to break down cultural and religious barriers through shared spaces and activities, as well as promote the idea that diversity is an asset by providing a space where all faiths are respected (KAICIID, 2020). Understanding diverse cultural and religious needs is crucial for cultural sensitivity and accommodating design.
For this research I will explore the functional design elements of multi fait centres and religious spaces which involve identifying layout, architectural features, and functional aspects from existing religious spaces to promote usability and inclusivity. Inclusive practices incorporate lessons learned from existing religious spaces, such as prayer spaces and communal areas catering to various practices.
For my research in order to understand better multi-faith centres. I looked up some worldwide multi faith centres considering different cultures and Religion
-The King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Inter-religious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) in Vienna, Austria focuses on promoting inter-religious and intercultural dialogue, with an emphasis on understanding between the Muslim world and other religions (KAICIID, 2020). The centres’ modern architecture incorporates Islamic geometric patterns and Austrian design elements, with spaces for prayer, meditation, and dialogue reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.
- The Tolerance Centre in Dubai, UAE showcases a modern and inclusive design, incorporating elements from different cultures to represent unity. It offers dedicated spaces for different faiths, allowing individuals to practice their beliefs. The centre incorporates Islamic-inspired architectural elements like domes and intricate tilework and includes flexible multipurpose areas adaptable for diverse activities, events, and religious practices. Additionally, communal spaces are designated to encourage dialogue and interaction among people from diverse backgrounds (Gambrell, 2023).
-In Delhi, India, the Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship that emphasises the oneness of humanity and the unity of all religions. The lotus flower-inspired architecture symbolises purity and enlightenment, while the temple's circular prayer hall and absence of religious imagery inside create a space open to people of all faiths (Bahaihouseofworship, 2024).
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| The lotus temple |
Researching and analysing the architectural and design of these centres made me realise that spatial arrangement, symbolism and inclusivity were the major point into creating a multi-faith centre. I have learned that spatial arrangements in multi-faith centres should include adaptable spaces that can accommodate various religious practices and gatherings. The architecture must be designed to be neutral, avoiding symbolism from any particular faith in order to ensure comfort for diverse users. Incorporation of universal symbols or motifs that represent common values shared by different faiths is common, while exclusive religious symbols are avoided to maintain an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Multi-faith centres also prioritise accessibility for people with diverse physical abilities and needs and provide resources from various religious traditions to promote education and understanding. Additionally, many modern multi-faith centres prioritise sustainable and eco-friendly architectural features in line with contemporary values and incorporate natural elements, green spaces, and serene surroundings to enhance contemplation.
After looking at diverse religious spaces worldwide, I focused my research on the worship spaces in Zambia to understand their cultural influence and design philosophy because I intend to use Zambia as the location of my project
-The Jame Masjid Mosque in Lusaka, Zambia is influenced by Islamic architecture and showcases traditional domes, minarets, and geometric patterns. The prayer hall is specifically designed for congregational prayers, and the mosque functions as a hub for Islamic activities in Lusaka.
-The Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, Zambia, as the home of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese (Angelicancathedraloflusaka, 2022), showcases a mix of modern and traditional design elements. It includes high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and a spacious nave to represent the magnificence of Catholic worship.
-The Baha'i House of Worship in Ndola, Zambia is a part of the worldwide Baha'i community. It is recognised for its detailed architecture, which includes a central dome and gardens. Baha'i architectural style highlights unity, simplicity, and inclusivity.
Many religious spaces in zambia have cultural influences and use locally sourced materials like wood and thatch, integrating traditional building methods. They also incorporate cultural symbols and motif in the architectural details to represent Zambian cultural identity and religious beliefs.
In my next post I will research about the demography of Kitwe, which is a city in Zambia
References
Center for Architecture. (2023). What is a Multifaith Worship Space? [online] Available at: https://www.centerforarchitecture.org/digital-exhibitions/article/the-global-phenomenon-of-multifaith-worship-spaces/what-is-a-multifaith-worship-space/#:~:text=Multifaith%20worship%20spaces%20not%20only [Accessed 16 Feb. 2024].
KAICIID. (2020). Who We Are. [online] Available at: https://www.kaiciid.org/who-we-are [Accessed 16 Feb. 2024].
Gambrell, jon (2023). UAE Opens Interfaith Center as Symbol of tolerance, but Religious Strictures Remain. [online] The Times of Israel. Available at: https://www.timesofisrael.com/uae-opens-interfaith-center-as-symbol-of-tolerance-but-religious-strictures-remain/ [Accessed 16 Feb. 2024].
Bahaihouseofworship. (2024). Architecture – Bahá’í House of Worship, New Delhi. [online] Available at: https://bahaihouseofworship.in/architecture/.
Angelicancathedraloflusaka. (2022). About The Cathedral. [online] Available at: https://www.anglicancathedraloflusaka.com/about-us#blog [Accessed 16 Feb. 2024].
Perhaps it would have been better to have stretched this research into these examples over more than one post! It is difficult to do an in depth analysis and make links to your work if you are putting so many research elements together. For example, as the Church of the Holy Cross is in Zambia, you could make much more of this and bring better links to your project - here it feels like an afterthought.
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