Urf' Architecture

  The architecture as Urf refers to the custom or knowledge of practices in a given society. It is a principle that responded to the local context that adopted into the Islamic architecture design. Urf is the diversifying principle that makes one building unique among each other.

  The typical type of mosque are shape up with large spaces together with dome form that can been seen around the world. However, by having certain specific architecture language in a country, the mosque could turn up totally different but still remain the function as a mosque with 7 principle of islamic architecture.

  Integrating the principle of Urf into the design of the buildings means that the building adopt and utilise the special architectural features derived from the locality to provide comfort for users and slowly encourage the community to readily accept a new function building. However, it is important to note that these features do not conflict with the Sharia law of Islam. 

Examples:


 The mosque of Xi'an , China

The Great Mosque of Xi’an is located near the Drum Tower, Shaanxi province, China. It is the oldest and one of the most renowned mosques in the country, founded in 742. It was built and renovated in later periods (especially during the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty). It remains a popular tourist site of Xi’an, and is still used by Chinese Muslims (mainly the Hui people) today as a place of worship. Unlike most mosques in Middle Eastern or Arab countries, the Great Mosque of Xi’an is completely Chinese in its construction and architectural style, except for some Arabic lettering and decorations, for the mosque has neither domes nor traditional-style minarets.