THE MOSQUE OF SHELTER

In the remote village of Anfgou, where winters are cold and life is shaped by isolation, the
mosque is more than just a place to pray. It becomes a safe and welcoming shelter—a
place for both the body and soul. While the mosque (masjid) is mainly for prayer, it has
always been a place for learning, gathering, and helping the community. This design
brings back those values and creates a space where people can come together, find
comfort, and belong.
The mosque is designed to feel warm, humble, and connected to the land. Instead of
being tall and monumental, it stays low and protective—like an embrace. It follows the
courtyard mosque layout, where rooms face inward, creating a calm and private space
while staying open to the community. At its center is a simple prayer hall, facing the Qibla,
with thick walls to keep warmth in during cold months. Small windows let in natural light
without losing heat. A central courtyard with shade trees like olive and almond provides
space for people to gather. Covered walkways surround the courtyard, offering shelter
from the sun and snow and smooth transitions between indoors and outdoors.
This mosque is a shelter in every way—protecting from the weather, supporting the
community, and offering spiritual peace. The design is guided by six main ideas.
1. Shelter:
• Thick walls to block cold winds and keep warmth inside.
• Shaded areas to stay cool in summer.
• Seating areas inside welcome people even outside prayer times.
2. Shade and Shadow
• Arcades and verandas create natural shade.
• Light wells bring in soft, filtered light without heat.
3. Climate Control Pockets
• Green plants and small trees inside help cool the air.
• Water features like small basins in the courtyard bring freshness and beauty.
4. Communal Spaces
• A large open courtyard for community events and gatherings.
• Flexible rooms for teaching, group activities, or emergency shelter.
5. Accessible and Expandable
• A simple, modular layout that can grow with the community.
• Ground-level access with no steps, so everyone can enter easily.
6. Sustainable and Simple Construction
• Use of local materials: rammed earth, stone, and wood.
• Natural heating and cooling through orientation and ventilation.
• Easy-to-maintain finishes, using natural plasters and paints.
This mosque is designed to serve as the heart of Anfgou—a warm, peaceful, and lasting
place for prayer, safety, and community life.