Intercultural Design | Project 2 Field Study
23/2/2025 - 2/3/2025 Week 4
Gao Yuan Yi 0373945
GCD61304 Intercultural Design / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
Project 2 Field Study
Project 2
Muslim Architecture Research Record
During this research, my team and I explored the artistic and cultural values of Muslim architecture. This was not just an academic study but also a meaningful cultural exchange.
Research Background
Our study focused on Muslim architecture, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of its artistic styles, historical backgrounds, and how it has evolved and integrated into different regions. We collected data through field visits and various sources.
Luckily, our team members came from different countries, and one of them, a Chinese Muslim, shared valuable data about mosques in her hometown. Additionally, our Muslim classmates and friends provided photos and information about mosques from their own regions, which enriched our research materials.
Research Content
We gathered materials on mosques from different countries, mainly including:
Muslim Architecture in China
Chinese mosques blend traditional Chinese architectural elements with Islamic design.
Examples:
- Tongxin Grand Mosque – A wooden structure with classical Chinese-style flying eaves.
- Nanguan Mosque – Features a grand main hall and a distinctive Arabic-style dome.
- Dongguan Mosque – A fusion of Chinese traditions and Islamic elements, making it one of the most iconic mosques in Ningxia.
These buildings show how Islamic culture has merged with local architectural styles, creating unique artistic expressions.
Muslim Architecture in Malaysia
To further our research, we visited several well-known mosques in Malaysia. One of the most impressive was Putra Mosque, built with soft pink marble and combining Middle Eastern and traditional Malay elements, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.
Other notable mosques we studied:
- National Mosque of Malaysia – A modern Islamic structure with a unique folded-roof design.
- Malacca Straits Mosque – Built by the sea, this "floating mosque" appears to float on water at high tide, creating a stunning visual effect.
Muslim Architecture in Other Countries
Beyond China and Malaysia, we also examined mosques in other regions. For instance, we studied:
- Amr ibn al-As Mosque in Egypt – One of the oldest mosques in Africa, rich in historical significance.
- Al-Azhar Mosque – Not only a religious center but also a key academic institution in the Islamic world.
Research Methods
To collect data, we used multiple research approaches:
- Field visits – Observing mosque architecture, decorations, and spatial layouts.
- Interviews & discussions – Speaking with Muslim friends and mosque staff to understand cultural meanings.
- Literature & online research – Reviewing academic papers and historical records for background information.
- Surveys – Gathering opinions on people’s awareness and interest in Muslim architecture.
Findings & Insights
Through this research, I gained a deeper appreciation for the aesthetics of Muslim architecture. Mosques are not just places of worship but also expressions of culture and art. Whether it’s a Chinese mosque, Malaysia’s floating mosque, or the grand structures of the Middle East, each carries deep historical and cultural significance.
Additionally, I realized the importance of cross-cultural communication. Conversations with Muslim friends helped me understand that mosques serve not only religious purposes but also as community centers. Every detail—from calligraphy and geometric patterns to vine-like decorations—holds profound cultural symbolism.
Data collection drive:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qapp68_harwVeoSw9OP46wc3TVFXO0wx?usp=share_link
FEEDBACK
Week 4-6:
Specific Feedback
During weeks four to six, our group entered a more in-depth research phase, conducting field investigations to collect detailed insights into Muslim architecture. Following our tutor’s suggestion, we refined our focus from daily-item design to Muslim architectural design. The primary objective during this stage was to explore the cultural characteristics of Muslim architecture and analyze their application in modern design.
Research & Data Collection
- Group members gathered Muslim architectural references from various regions.
- A Muslim team member from China shared photos and background information on mosques in her hometown.
- Muslim classmates and friends from different countries provided information on local mosque architecture, giving our research a diverse cultural perspective.
Field Investigation
- Conducted on-site visits to several notable mosques in Malaysia, including the Putra Mosque.
- Through direct observation, we studied:
- Structural forms of mosques
- Geometric patterns and decorative elements
- Islamic calligraphy and color combinations
- Recorded extensive visual materials and research notes to support design analysis.
Analyzing Architectural Elements for Modern Design
- Organized and refined the collected research data.
- Began conceptualizing how Muslim architectural elements—such as geometric motifs, arched structures, and Islamic calligraphy—could be adapted for modern design applications.
General Feedback
The primary focus of weeks four to six was field investigations and comparative research on Muslim architecture from different regions. This process provided:
- A deeper cultural and historical understanding of Muslim architectural design.
- Firsthand visual analysis, allowing for a more detailed study of decorative styles and spatial layouts.
This research phase not only enriched our project foundation but also prepared us for the next design phase, where we will translate these insights into practical applications. Moving forward, we will focus on ensuring that our designs authentically reflect Muslim architectural culture while also meeting contemporary design standards.
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