Sancaklar Mosque

Sancaklar Mosque in Büyükçekmece, Istanbul, is a prime example of contemporary mosque architecture. Designed by Emre Arolat, the mosque was inaugurated in 2013 and has since garnered significant attention and acclaim for its innovative design, including winning the ArchDaily Building of the Year Award in 2015 for religious structures.

Design Philosophy and Features

• The mosque is situated in a serene natural setting, surrounded by rolling hills and greenery. This tranquil environment plays a crucial role in the mosque’s design, which aims to integrate with the natural surroundings and create a peaceful space for worship.
• The exterior of the mosque is characterized by its raw concrete construction, reflecting a connection with nature and emphasizing simplicity.
• Inside, the mosque follows a minimalist and contemporary style. The prayer area includes steps for worship, offering a unique spatial experience.
• The mosque features natural lighting, particularly in the prayer area near the qibla wall, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
• There is a separate section and entrance for women, accommodating inclusivity in worship.

Sancaklar Mosque stands as a significant contribution to modern Islamic architecture, redefining traditional mosque design through its integration with nature, simplicity in form, and focus on creating a contemplative and spiritual environment for worshippers.

• The mosque’s design seeks to address the fundamental challenges of creating a religious space, emphasizing the spiritual and contemplative aspects over ornamental design.
• It is situated in a rural area, separated from the densely used highway and surrounded by the structures of a gated community. This setting plays a crucial role in the mosque’s design, emphasizing a contrast between the hectic external world and the tranquil environment of the mosque.

Architectural Features

• The upper courtyard of the mosque, surrounded by high walls, delineates a clear boundary between the chaotic external world and the peaceful public park within the mosque’s compound.
• The only architectural element visible from outside is a long overhang extending from the park. This overhang leads to a pathway in the upper courtyard, guiding visitors to the mosque.
• As one progresses through the site, moving downwards and entering the mosque between the walls, the outside world is left behind, and the structure seamlessly integrates with the topography.
• The mosque interior, reminiscent of a simple cave, offers a dramatic and awe-inspiring space for prayer and solitude with God. Slits along the qibla wall not only reinforce the direction of prayer but also allow sunlight to filter into the prayer area.

Integration of Nature and Human Craftsmanship

• The project thrives on the tension between natural elements and human creation. The natural stone stairs, following the terrain’s natural slope, and the slender reinforced concrete ceiling that forms the overhang at a height of 6 meters, create a contrast that enhances this dual relationship.

Sancaklar Mosque stands out as a modern architectural marvel, redefining the traditional concepts of mosque design by focusing on simplicity, contemplation, and the seamless integration of the structure with its natural surroundings.

Location

• Address: Karağaç Mah., Sırtköy Çiftliği Mevkii G 84 Bulvarı, 34500 Büyükçekmece, Istanbul.