Welcome to the “musholla,” a sacred Islamic space dedicated to the five daily prayers and the recitation of the Koran. These serene havens can be found as intimate rooms within public institutions, airports, and homes, or as standalone structures.
Project Name: Musholla
Office Name: Erik Petrus Architects
Project Status: Built
Completion Year: 2023
Project Location: Pangandaran, Indonesia
Gross Built Area (m2/ ft2): 80,40 m2
Usable area: 52,10 m2
Area site: 87,70 m2
Photo Credits: Mario Wibowo
Unlike larger mosques that host grand congregational prayers and feature pulpits, mushollas offer a more personal and community-centered experience. They are not just places of worship; they are cultural hubs where the local community gathers for various activities. In Indonesia, mushollas have become a staple in urban design, seamlessly integrated into larger complexes.
In the picturesque seaside town of Pangandaran, Java, a musholla stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and cultural harmony. Pangandaran, known for its stunning beaches, azure seas, and lush jungles, is the perfect backdrop for this architectural gem. The mastermind behind this design is Erik Petrus, a Czech architect celebrated for his iconic buildings that marry elegance with emotion. His innovative approach and sensitivity to space create buildings that are both unique and awe-inspiring. Petrus’s work in Indonesia showcases his talent for blending modern architecture with local culture and nature, offering not just visual beauty but an atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.
This musholla is located adjacent to the De Residence Pangandaran, a residential complex also designed by Petrus. The musholla was built to express gratitude to both God and the local residents for the development of the nearby residential area. It serves as a local center where residents come together for prayer and various social activities. The community has embraced the musholla enthusiastically, seeing it as the spiritual and social heart of their locality.
The musholla’s design is based on a trapezoidal plot and features two main sections: the prayer hall and the support area. The prayer hall is surrounded by an outdoor covered walkway made of perforated bricks, which shield the interior from direct sunlight while providing a communal space. These perforated bricks create a mesmerizing play of light and shadow inside. The prayer hall itself is elevated and crowned with a cylindrical dome, featuring a narrow window that allows light to filter in, symbolizing divine presence. This light enhances the spiritual experience, making worshippers feel closer to Allah. The slit-like window in the dome also points towards Mecca, guiding prayers in the right direction.
The support area, attached to the prayer hall, serves the neighboring De Residence Pangandaran complex. It is a two-story building housing a laundry and staff facilities, ensuring that both practical needs and spiritual practices are catered for within this harmonious design.
The musholla in Pangandaran is more than just a building; it is a beacon of community, spirituality, and architectural excellence.
