Another noteworthy proposal for the Central Mosque of Pristina in Kosovo; this time, from Zurich-based architecture firm, Dürig AG. They envision the new mosque as an interplay between the individual and the community. "Mosques are places of worship for the Islamic community where the single believer joins a larger body for the ceremonial act of worship and prayer." Singular elements combine to make a larger, more meaningful, whole. "Thus, [our proposal] stands as a materialized representation for the individual within the Islamic community of Kosovo."
Natural daylight softly descends through the modulated plenum, creating a uniform prayer hall. Perforations throughout the facade and interior wooden panels enable a visual transparency that, Dürig AG expects, should spawn a dialogue between individuals inside the mosque and pedestrians in the city.
A lack of prayer space and a disproportionate coverage of mosques between the old and new areas of Prishtina spurred the municipalities to pursue a place where "understanding, humanity, tolerance, respect and sincere love shall be cultivated and where enlightening values shall be brought forward," says, Naim Tërnava the Grand Mufti of Kosovo.
81 proposals for the new Central Mosque were submitted for evaluation earlier this year. After jury evaluation, none were awarded the first prize. Instead, two proposals were awarded second place, along with one third place winner. Follow us for continued coverage of the competition entries.
