Nestled within the evolving landscape of Istanbul, the Kumburgaz Mosque emerges as a profound architectural expression of spirituality and connection to the earth. This design reflects the essence of a space where humanity meets divinity, drawing inspiration from the profound understanding that ‘we came from the earth, and to the earth, we shall return.’ This philosophy symbolizes the interconnectedness of all life, rooting the mosque in a singular source. By embodying the essence of life on Earth, it highlights the vital coexistence of all beings, linking the principles of creation outlined in the Quran with a cycle of presence and return to the earth—the ultimate Source. This life cycle, intertwined with the earth, underscores its role as a fundamental element of worldly life, embedded in the constructs of religious belief. The architects’ vision, guided by this understanding, reflects a deep spirituality in the architectural narrative.
The primary and sole material of the project is the earth found naturally in nature. The belief that the earth is our essence, omnipresent, and inherently linked to nature resonates with the simplicity of the Masjid al-Nabawi, one of the most sacred mosques, underscoring its connection to the environment. The project team comprises individuals who have contemplated and researched Islam, Sufism, humanity, existence, the mathematics of the universe, and nature for many years. The convergence of these strands of knowledge allows for the creation of a space that harmonizes with and nourishes the human soul, serving as a sanctuary for spiritual growth. On a societal level, the design team aims to promote an inclusive space that fosters social consciousness and transcends cultural boundaries. By offering an environment that embraces universal principles of love, peace, and harmony, the mosque aspires to leave a lasting legacy, reminding us of our inherent connections to ourselves, each other, and the universe. The Kumburgaz Mosque project is strategically located within a new development area in Istanbul. The rectangular site features a natural slope extending along the northeast-southwest axis. During the design process, the mosque is envisioned as an urban structure that fosters public interaction by integrating with the vacant land in front and transforming it into a park area.
The mosque's design utilizes the land's natural slope, allowing for a gradual perception of the structure as one approaches. The park, designed with steps, extends towards the sea, establishing a strong relationship with urban public space. Emphasizing modesty, the mosque exhibits a tranquil and calm presence. A green spine weaves through the landscape design, harmonizing with the sloped topography and facilitating social and cultural interactions among urban dwellers. This spine begins with the main prayer hall and extends to ablution facilities, reflection pools, contemplative gardens sheltered by trees, and walking paths. The traces in the landscape reflect the qibla direction, gently diverging as representations of the cycle concept.
In considering the mosque's typology, the design adopts a familiar cultural and structural approach. Traditional elements are incorporated to create a design that resonates with memories of mosques while offering a fresh interpretation. By emphasizing the relationship between mass elements, the project aims to create a contemporary mosque that addresses contemporary needs, material choices, and potential challenges.
The architects sought to reveal the mass movement while cultivating a sense of mystery. The structure, visible from the main entrance at the road level, reflects the domed prayer area and is enveloped by a shell rising from the park side. This shell allows the main structure to remain partially concealed, showcasing a characteristic of ‘rising and falling’ in its design. The shell oscillates between solid and semi-permeable forms, invitingly guiding visitors toward the entrance. Upon entering, individuals experience a sense of being embraced by the extending walls, mentally preparing them for the spiritual journey ahead. This fluidity between the interlocking inner and outer shells ensures continuity in both horizontal and vertical axes.
In the constructed framework—void of excessive decoration—the essence of solitude with the Creator is accentuated. A simple and modest design language has been adopted, imbuing meaning into the details. In the Kumburgaz Mosque project, the concepts of gathering, unity, plurality, and singularity—derived from the etymology of ‘mosque’—are explored through various forms, textures, and color intensities, all stemming from a single material. This repeated structural technique echoes the concept of unity. The unity embodied by two primary mass components embraces each other in spiral forms, emphasizing the themes of embrace and return to the essence or Source.
The circular movements within the core symbolize individual and transcendent consciousness, representing the quest for inner balance and meaning. The act of turning signifies a journey from directionlessness to singularity: "To Allah belongs the east and the west. So wherever you [might] turn, there is the Face of Allah. Indeed, Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing." (Quran, 2:115). This principle acknowledges the repetition and harmony present in the universe. Spirituality is perceived as a transition from the material realm to the domain of meaning. Understanding this subject through contemplation requires the cultivation of a thoughtful practice. Within the scope of the project, utilizing a single material rooted in these concepts brings together various forms and appearances, transitioning from singularity to unity.
The life cycles, climate influences, and sustainability of the selected earth-based materials were integral to the design process. The earth blocks used in the structure will mature and maintain their natural qualities throughout their life cycle. Beyond their visual and physical connection to nature, these blocks have been carefully considered for their behavior, maintenance needs, durability, and emotional resonance. The material selection reflects a contemporary architectural ethos while being inspired by the project’s context.
Particular emphasis is placed on the interior design, featuring a ceiling window in the prayer area that opens to the sky. This element symbolizes the descent of light upon individuals, representing divine presence within the mosque. Light illuminates both the space and the individual, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and guidance sought during prayer. In this design, light serves as a source of inspiration and clarity of mind and heart.
The Kumburgaz Mosque Design Project endeavors to transform philosophical and spiritual concepts into an architectural reality. Utilizing earth as the primary material, the design accentuates the dualities of the universe and the mutual dichotomies expressed through diverse forms, textures, and colors.
Through engagement with this religious space, the design seeks to deepen individual and spiritual consciousness. It provides a foundation for individuals to explore their connections to themselves, nature, and the universe, reinforcing the understanding that we originate from the earth and enhancing our comprehension of life experiences.
