THE ACOUSTICS OF MASJIDS, LOOKING FOR FUTURE DESIGN CRITERIA

The masjid (Mosque) is the place of worship for Muslims. Despite its importance for millions of Muslims around the world, masjids do not receive sufficient attention as architectural spaces in which the acoustics represent a vital consideration in its mission. The lack of acoustic data regarding masjids has been reported repeatedly by many researchers. As a result, a research project funded by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology KACST was launched in mid-December 2013. The project aims to establish a set of acoustic design guidelines for masjids. This paper helps to explain this project and presents its main methodology and findings.