The Ismaili Centre, designed by Moriyama Teshima Architects in association with Charles Correa Associates, uniquely responds to established Islamic building traditions, while incorporating contemporary architectural form, materiality, and construction methods. The architectural language distinguishes a community that is both informed by its past and modern in its outlook, inviting peaceful faith and contemplation, intellectual discovery, and public outreach.
The first of its kind in North America, the unique roof of the prayer hall is constructed of elegant structural steel trusses of various depths and dimensions, which are covered by a double layer of glass. The glass rises in the shape of an inverted cone and is pieced together to form a translucent fractal skin. Charles Correa describes Moriyama Teshima Architects' roof design as a “tremendous tour de force”.
Developed along with the Structural Engineers and Building Envelope Consultants, the team was able to design a structure that withstands the harsh Canadian climate, while maintaining its architectural integrity. During the day, as sunlight is filtered and diffused through the translucent glass, the serene prayer hall inspires users to physically and spiritually connect with both the sky above and the ground below. At night, the glass roof glows like a beacon in the dark sky, rising elegantly above the surrounding landscape.
Set within a 6.8 hectare park (designed by Vladimir Djurovic with Moriyama & Teshima Planners), the Ismaili Centre shares a site with the Aga Khan Museum (designed by Fumihiko Maki with Moriyama Teshima Architects). The complex is a symbolic marker of the permanent presence of the Ismaili community in Canada, and an ambassadorial space intended to foster understanding of pluralism.
