INTRODUCTION TO

ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE.
BUILDING COMPONENTS IN DETAIL.

Group 1 | BSC.INTERIOR DESIGN | 27th january2o25

1.Suhana
2.Sakshi
3.Rhimjhim
4.Chetan
5.Irfan
6.Sanjay
7.Lizibeth.

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Introduction to Islamic
Architecture.
 What is Islamic Architecture?
Islamic architecture is very unique as it reflects the
Islamic culture, spirituality, and artistry. It also blends
functionality with intricate decorative elements such as
geometric patterns, arabesques, and calligraphy.

− HISTORICALLY;

Islamic architecture originated in 7th century in

the Arabian Peninsula. It was mainly influenced
by Byzantine, Persian, and Roman architectural
traditions. Also the further east was influenced by
Chinese and Mughal architecture as Islamic
spread to southeast Asia.

GREAT MOSQUE OF DAMASCUS. -Syria

KEY FEATURES OF ISLAMIC

ARCHITECTURE.
 Use of symmetry and geometry.

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 Integration of calligraphy, arabesque patterns, and
ornamentation.

 Focus on creating spiritual and serene spaces.

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 Extensive use of domes, arches, and courtyards.

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BUILDING COMPONENTS OF
ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE.
 DOMES;
Domes are a prominent feature of Islamic
architecture, symbolizing heavens and vastness
of the universe.
They often appear as crown-like feature in
mosques, palaces and mausoleums.
The interior surfaces in the domes are often
decorated with intricate geometric patterns,
calligraphy, or muqarnas.
The drum[base] of the domes supports the dome
and may include windows for lighting.

 ARCHES;

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In Islamic architecture, arches are curved
structures that support the weight of walls and
other loads.
They serve both structural and decorative
purposes as they are of different types and
characteristics of various Islamic regions.

Types of arches in Islamic architecture

1.Horseshoe arch
Also known as a keyhole arch, this arch is often used in
Islamic architecture for its decorative appeal. It has a
dramatic widening and narrowing of its sides, and its
crown can be either rounded or pointed.

2.Pointed arch
This arch has a rounded design with a tapered apex. It
was an important element of Gothic architecture.

3.Ogee arch
Similar to the pointed arch, but its point is composed
of two s-shaped lines.

4.Multifoil arch
This arch has multiple circular arcs or leaf shapes,
resulting in a scalloped shapes.

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  MINARETS;

A minaret is a tall tower in Islamic architecture

that is used to call Muslims to prayer. They are
usually located near mosques and are often
topped with a balcony.
Their designs vary based on regional styles,
[ e.g., cylindrical, square, or spiral]. They are
decorated with tiles, carvings, or calligraphy.

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Author is licensed under CC

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 is licensed under CC BY-NC

 MUQARNAS;
Muqarnas is a decorative architectural style in
Islamic architecture that features a honeycomb-
like vaulting. It can be used for aesthetic
purposes or to serve a structural purpose.
Muqarnas enhance visual beauty and symbolize
the complexity of the universe.
Muqarnas is a three-dimensional image that fills
the inner parts of semi-domes.
It is made up of niche-like cells that are
subdivided into different shapes, such as
squares and triangles.
Muqarnas can be carved into the structure of a
wall and ceiling, or it can be added on as a
decorative surface.

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under CCunder
BY CC BY-SA-NC

 COURTYARDS[Sahn];
This is an open-air space within mosques,
palaces, or madrasas, often includes a fountain
or water basin for ablution [ritual washing].
It provides space for gatherings, prayers, or
relaxation.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

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  IWANS;
An iwan is a vaulted hall or space in Islamic
architecture that is open on one side and walled
on three sides. Iwans are often used as
entrances or as halls facing a courtyard in
mosques, madrasas, and caravanserais.
They were frequently used in Persian and
Mughal architecture.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under

CC BY-SA

 QUBBA[Tombs];
A Qubba is a domed structure or cupola in
Islamic architecture, often used to describe a
tomb or shrine. The word Qubba is Arabic for
"dome”.
A qubba is usually a tomb or shrine that
contains the remains of a saint, pious man, or
emir.
The interior of a qubba is often decorated with
geometric, stellate, or vegetal motifs.
Qubbas are symbolic of the vault of heaven.

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In North Africa, a qubba is often the tomb of a
local wali, or Muslim saint.
Qubbas are found in many parts of the Muslim
world, including North Africa, Bengal, and Iraq.
Some examples of qubbas include Qubbat al-
Sulaibiyya in Samarra, Iraq and the qubba at
Imadpur, Bihar Sharif, India.

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 ORNAMENTATION;
Ornamentation in Islamic architecture is the use
of decorative patterns and forms in Islamic art
and architecture. Islamic ornamentation is a key
part of Islamic cultural expression, and is rich in
symbolic meaning.

Elements of Islamic ornamentation

o Geometric patterns: Use simple shapes to
create intricate patterns that symbolize
order and god's law.
o Arabesques: Use curving plant-based
elements .

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 o Calligraphy: Use stylized Arabic script to
express god's message.
o Multiple-level design: Incorporates smaller
scale secondary elements into the
background areas of a primary motif.

Examples of Islamic ornamentation

Ceramic tiles: Can include geometric patterns, plants, and
Koran quotes.
Mihrab: A niche or alcove in a mosque or prayer space that
indicates the direction of prayer .
Façades: Can be covered in "repeat ornament", which is a
decorative element replicated many times.

 WATER FEATURES;
Water features in Islamic architecture are pools,
fountains, and water dispensers that are used
for aesthetic, cultural, and religious purposes.
They are often found in courtyards, gardens,
and public spaces.
Significance
-Water is a symbol of purity, fertility, and life-giving
properties.

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 -The Qur'an describes water as a blessing from God.
-Water is essential for life and survival.

 MASHRABIYA;
A mashrabiya is a latticework screen or window
that is a characteristic feature of Islamic
architecture. It is usually made of wood and is
often found on the upper floors of buildings.
Mashrabiyas are used to control light,
temperature, humidity, and airflow, and to
provide privacy.
Mashrabiyas began appearing in the Abbasid
era in the 13th century AD.
They were commonly used until the early 20th
century AD.
Mashrabiyas are designed to catch wind and
allow for passive cooling.
Water jars and basins can be placed inside to
increase evaporative cooling.
The latticework allows for a constant flow of
fresh air, which provides thermal and
environmental comfort.
Mashrabiyas are found in many countries,
including Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Lebanon,
Sudan, Australia, and Peru.

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LEGACY OF ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE.
Islamic architecture is celebrated for its decorative
mastery, blending calligraphy, geometric
patterns, and arabesques to create spaces of
spiritual and aesthetic significance. These elements,
seen in iconic structures like the Taj Mahal in India
and Alhambra in Spain, showcase the creativity and
symbolism integral to Islamic designs. The harmonious
use of patterns and ornamentation reflects both
cultural values and artistic excellence, emphasizing
unity, infinity, and a connection to the divine.
Beyond its decorative brilliance, Islamic architecture
has had a profound global influence, shaping
architectural styles across regions and eras. From the
Moorish palaces of Spain to the Grand mosques
of the Ottoman Empire, its principles have inspired
buildings worldwide. More than just functional
structures, these designs represent spaces of spiritual
serenity and cultural identity.The timeless legacy of
Islamic architecture continues to inspire modern
architects, proving its enduring relevance in art faith
and engineering.

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THANK YOU….

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