Abstract

Islamic principles drawn from Qur’anic and Prophetic teachings position the masjid (mosque) as a community space for prayer, learning and social engagement. Masajid (plural) originally acted as holistic environments for both individual well-being and societal harmony. This draws on the Islamic worldview that human life is interconnected, and that spiritual spatial practices should integrate within rhythms of daily routine. This role has been diminished over time, leaving masajid underutilised and detached from the broader communities they serve. In contemporary South African suburbs, these disconnections are deepened by physical segregation through high boundary walls, altered daily routines and heightened stress levels. Consequently, the masjid’s potential to serve as a unifying civic hub remains largely unrealised.

Bayt al-Wahda (بيت الوحدة), an Arabic term meaning House of Unity, aims to reestablish the masjid as a multifunctional community node in the suburb of Emmarentia, Johannesburg. This builds on an existing real-world adaptive reuse project of a former Shul (synagogue) which has been sold to be used as a masjid in response to changing demographics and shifting community needs. Wahda is guided by a research-for-design investigation of spatial practice within masajid. It integrates insights from theory with findings from multiple-case study analysis of masajid in diverse contexts. The theoretical framework considers spatial practice theory, with a focus on Lefebvre’s spatial triad to bridge the gap between how spaces are formally designed (conceived space), and how spaces are used and experienced (spatial practice and lived space). Design strategies were developed from the research to guide the design. These include flexible and adaptable design, inclusivity, user agency and sensory immersion.

The resulting design proposes a singular node at the center of the community that incorporates daily activities. This includes the masjid (designated place for Islamic prayer), the commons (workshops, discussions and workspace) and the table (shared kitchen and restaurant that supporting local home industries). 

The project is supported by key stakeholders, including the Emmarentia Muslim Association (EMA) who represent the community in decision making, and Awqaf South Africa focusing on community welfare and economic empowerment. Bayt al-Wahda seeks to renew the masjid’s positive impact on collective well-being, serving not only those who enter for prayer. It is a space where sacred and secular practices converge to unify the community.

Keywords: Mosque architecture, community centre, spatial practice, placemaking, sacred space design