The Kuwait State Mosque

Notes

The project is the result of an international competition hosted by the government of Kuwait in 1976. One of the main design requirements was for the Mosque to have an Arab-Islamic style. In order to design this religious architecture according to contemporary needs, the architect proposed a language that flows between the open and enclosed spaces. The large complex consists of a series of connected rectangular courtyards organized around a large domed prayer hall (72m by 72m) which is lit by 144 windows. The dome is 30m in diameter and 40m above ground and rests on monumental columns that exaggerate its height even more. Different courtyards served different purposes. To the north, there is a small courtyard that has next to it, a special entrance for the Emir of Kuwait. To the east, a large courtyard contains a water fountain for ritual washing­—under which a 5-level car park was excavated and can accommodate for 500 cars. The mosque has one minaret, and is built with pre-cast concrete. It has become a landmark and symbol for the State of Kuwait. 

Sources

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