Before us stands Masjid AI-Jihad. Sustainable design principles were embraced here. Completed in 2024 Masjid AI-Jihad features cross-ventilation. Rosters and grills facilitate this natural airflow.
But let’s step back a moment. Mosques in Indonesia boast a rich history. Early mosques often blended local architectural styles. Hindu, Buddhist, and Chinese elements were common. Domes and minarets weren’t always present.
Over time, that changed. The 19th century brought more orthodox styles. These were often imported during the Dutch colonial era. Indo-Islamic or Moorish Revival architecture became popular. Think onion-shaped domes and arched vaults. Minarets gained prominence too. Persian and Ottoman styles influenced design. Calligraphy and geometric patterns appeared. Many older mosques were renovated. Small domes topped their square hipped roofs.
Masjid AI-Jihad is located in Jakarta. The Al Huda Mosque in Jakarta uses color-changing RGB lighting for the interior dome. This lighting enhances architectural details. It also conveys spiritual emotions during prayer. PT. Desain Plus Energi designed the lighting. LIGHTALK linear wall wash floodlights illuminate the dome. MIC projectors also contribute to the lighting. JASPER directional recessed accent luminaires light the prayer room perimeter. The bright white light contrasts with the colorful dome above.
Mosque architecture varies across Indonesia. Early Javanese mosques had multi-tiered roofs. They also featured ceremonial gateways. Four central posts supported a soaring pyramidal roof. Decorative clay finials adorned the roof peaks. Minarets were not common until the 19th century. Calls to prayer originated from the serambi. The serambi is a roofed porch attached to the front of the mosque.
Sumatran mosques often resemble Javanese ones. However, they incorporate local styles. Minangkabau mosques boast horned roof profiles. These roofs are supported by concentric columns. Some mosques are built on islands in artificial ponds. Traditional Minangkabau woodcarvings embellish the facade.
After Indonesia’s independence, many mosques were renovated. Small domes were added to their hipped roofs. Since the 1970s, traditional buildings have been politically recognized. President Suharto supported mosque construction in less prosperous communities. These mosques often featured three hipped roofs above a square prayer hall. This design recalled the Great Mosque of Demak.
Today, Indonesian mosque architecture is diverse. Many mosques now follow Near Eastern styles. Persian, Arabic, and Ottoman influences are visible.
Masjid AI-Jihad represents a contemporary approach. Its design reflects modern sensibilities. It also embraces sustainable practices. The mosque’s cross-ventilation system minimizes energy consumption. This design choice aligns with current environmental concerns. It also reflects a commitment to responsible building practices. Masjid AI-Jihad stands as a testament to evolving architectural trends. It blends tradition with innovation.