INS Multi-Faith Praying Room

Jason 8.1

Schedule For the Room:

Time Activity / Access Type Notes / Color Code (LED)

06:00
– Morning Reflection (Open to All) Calm lighting (light blue)
07:00
07:00
– Light Breakfast (Self-Serve) Vegetarian only (soft green)
08:30
08:30
Muslim Prayer Time (Priority Qibla & Wudu facilities available
–
Access) (gold)
10:00
10:00
– Meditation Hour (Open to All) Guided by volunteers (lavender)
11:00
11:00
Christian Prayer & Reflection Rosaries/Bibles available (light
–
(Priority Access) beige)
12:30
12:30
No talking; soft instrumental
– Lunch (Quiet Zone)
(grey)
14:00
14:00
Open Scripture Reading (All Scriptures in multiple languages
–
Religions) (cream)
15:30
15:30
Hindu & Buddhist Devotion Time Incense tray (electric) optional
–
(Priority Access) (orange)
17:00
17:00
Open circle discussion (light
– Tea & Talk (Interfaith Dialogue)
yellow)
18:00
18:00
Muslim Prayer Time (Priority
– Quiet, respectful time
Access)
19:30
19:30
Peace Night: Music or Readings Shared poems, songs, or silent
–
(Open to All) music (navy blue)
21:00
21:00
Dimmed lights; journaling
– Evening Quiet Time (Open to All)
allowed (indigo)
22:00

Map:

Annotations of things in the room:

Item Description Why
Prayer For Prayer chairs without arms are designed to offer
Chairs accessibility comfort and flexibility during prayer or meditation.
（No and ease of They are lightweight, simple, and provide support
Arms） movement without restricting movement, making them ideal
during for those who prefer sitting rather than kneeling or
prayer. using cushions. Arranged to create a peaceful and
private space, these chairs cater to the diverse
needs of worshippers. Many religions value comfort
and freedom during prayer, and arm-free chairs
allow individuals to sit in positions that align with
their practices, ensuring everyone can pray
comfortably and focus on their devotion.

Meditatio Soft seating Meditation cushions and zabutons help provide

n for comfort during meditation or prayer. The cushion
Cushions meditation raises the hips for better posture, while the
& or floor- zabuton, placed underneath, softens the knees,
Zabutons based ankles, and feet. These are useful for people who
prayer. prefer sitting on the floor while praying or
meditating. They create a peaceful and comfortable
space, allowing individuals to focus on their practice
without discomfort. Using cushions and zabutons
also respects traditions where sitting on the floor is
common.

Benches For short Benches near the entrance offer a comfortable

Near rests, place for people to sit before or after entering the
Entrance waiting, or prayer room. They provide a spot to rest, remove
contemplatio shoes, or reflect quietly. These benches create a
n before welcoming atmosphere and help maintain the
entering. cleanliness of the prayer area by encouraging
visitors to leave their shoes outside. The benches
are designed to be simple and unobtrusive,
ensuring they blend with the peaceful environment
of space.

Acoustic Reduce noise Acoustic panels are used to reduce noise and create
Panels and create a a quiet, peaceful environment in the prayer room.
quiet They absorb sound, preventing echoes and
environment. minimizing distractions, so visitors can focus on
their prayers or meditation. These panels help
 maintain a calm atmosphere by controlling noise
from the surrounding areas. They are designed to
blend in with the room's decor, ensuring the space
remains serene and conducive to spiritual practice.

Small For storing Small lockers provide a safe and convenient place
Lockers personal for visitors to store their personal belongings while
items during using the prayer room. These lockers help keep the
prayer. space tidy and organized, ensuring that items such
as bags, phones, and valuables are securely stored.
They offer peace of mind to worshippers, allowing
them to focus on their spiritual practice without
worrying about their belongings. The lockers are
designed to be simple, discreet, and easy to use.

Portable For privacy Portable partitions or Shoji screens are used to

Partitions or separation create private spaces within the prayer room. They
or Shoji by gender or allow individuals to have a quiet and personal area
Screens group. for prayer or meditation, while still maintaining an
open and peaceful atmosphere. These screens are
lightweight and easy to move, providing flexibility in
arranging the space as needed. Their simple,
elegant design adds a sense of tranquility and can
be adjusted to suit the needs of different
worshippers.

Foldable For kneeling Foldable meditation benches offer a portable and

Meditatio support convenient option for those who prefer sitting
n during during prayer or meditation. These benches are
Benches longer lightweight and easy to fold, allowing worshippers
meditations. to set them up or store them as needed. They
provide comfortable support for proper posture,
especially for those who cannot sit cross-legged on
the floor. The compact design makes them ideal for
a variety of spaces, and they can be easily moved
or stored when not in use.

Small To hold Small tray tables provide a convenient surface for

Tray prayer items, placing personal items, prayer books, or small
Tables books, or offerings during meditation or prayer. Their compact
offerings. size allows them to fit easily in the prayer room
without taking up too much space. These tables are
portable and can be moved as needed, offering
 flexibility for worshippers. The simple design
ensures they do not distract from the peaceful
atmosphere of the room while still being functional
and practical for visitors.

Digital Displays The digital prayer time screen displays prayer times
Prayer accurate for different faiths, making it easy for worshippers
Time prayer times to know when to pray. It’s simple to read and helps
Screen for multiple keep everyone on schedule, allowing visitors to
faiths. focus on their prayers without worrying about time.

Compass Helps A compass or digital Qibla indicator helps

or Digital Muslims face worshippers find the correct direction for prayer. It
Qibla Mecca for ensures that visitors, especially those unfamiliar
Indicator prayer.m with the area, can face the Qibla (the direction of
the Kaaba in Mecca) accurately. This tool provides
convenience and supports worshippers in
maintaining the proper alignment during prayer.

Shoe Encourage Labeled shoe racks offer a neat and organized place
Racks removal of for visitors to leave their shoes before entering the
（Labeled footwear; prayer room. The labels make it easy for people to
） maintains find and retrieve their shoes, keeping the area clean
cleanliness. and orderly. This helps maintain the sacredness of
the space and ensures a respectful and convenient
environment for all.

Slippers Encourage Slippers are provided for visitors who prefer to keep
removal of their feet covered while in the prayer room. They
footwear; offer comfort and cleanliness, allowing worshippers
maintains to move freely while maintaining respect for the
cleanliness. sacred space. Slippers are a practical solution for
those who don't want to walk barefoot but still wish
to follow the tradition of removing shoes before
entering.

Wudu- For Muslim Wudu-friendly sinks or foot basins are designed to

friendly ablution help worshippers perform the ablution (wudu) ritual
Sinks/Foo before before prayer. These sinks or basins are low to the
t Basins prayers. ground and easy to use, making it convenient for
visitors to wash their hands, face, arms, and feet.
They provide a hygienic and respectful way to
prepare for prayer, ensuring that worshippers can
 complete this essential practice in comfort and
privacy.
Ablution With anti-slip An ablution station is a designated area for
Station tiles, worshippers to perform the ritual washing (wudu)
benches, and before prayer. It includes features like low sinks or
towel hooks. foot basins, anti-slip tiles, and benches to ensure
comfort and safety. This station allows visitors to
prepare for prayer in a clean and private space,
maintaining both hygiene and respect for the
sacred ritual.

Hand Placed at Hand sanitizer stations are placed at the entrance

Sanitizer entrances/ex and key areas of the prayer room to ensure visitors
Stations its. can clean their hands before and after prayer. They
promote hygiene and help maintain a clean
environment for all worshippers. The stations are
easily accessible and encourage everyone to follow
proper cleanliness practices while using the space.

Disinfecti For wiping Disinfecting spray and tissues are provided for
ng Spray mats, chairs, worshippers to clean surfaces, such as prayer mats
& Tissues and shared and chairs, before use. These ensure that the space
surfaces. remains hygienic and safe for all visitors. The spray
and tissues are conveniently placed for easy
access, allowing worshippers to maintain
cleanliness while respecting the shared space.

Waste To maintain a Waste bins with multi-lingual signage are placed

Bins clean and throughout the prayer room to encourage proper
(Multi- respectful disposal of trash. The signs, displayed in multiple
lingual space. languages, ensure that all visitors understand
Signage) where to dispose of waste. This helps maintain
cleanliness and promotes a respectful, organized
environment for everyone using the space.

Qur’an For Islam, The Qur’an, available in Arabic, English, and

（Arabic & kept clean Chinese, offers visitors the ability to read and reflect
English & and placed on the sacred text in multiple languages. This
Chinese） respectfully. ensures accessibility for people of different
backgrounds and helps create an inclusive space for
worshippers. The availability of these translations
allows everyone to connect with the teachings of
Islam, regardless of their primary language.
Bible For The Bible is available in multiple versions, including
（Multiple Christianity, different translations and denominations, to
Versions） Includes accommodate diverse Christian worshippers. It
Catholic, provides access to the holy text in languages such
Protestant as English, Chinese, and others, allowing people to
editions. read and reflect on the teachings of Christianity in a
way that resonates with their faith. This inclusive
selection supports worshippers from various
Christian traditions and backgrounds.

Bhagava For The Bhagavad Gita, a key scripture in Hinduism, is

d Gita Hinduism, in available for visitors in multiple languages,
Sanskrit and including English and Chinese. It offers profound
translated spiritual guidance and wisdom, allowing
languages. worshippers to connect with its teachings. The
Gita's presence in space provides a way for
individuals to reflect on their spiritual journey and
engage with the philosophical principles of
Hinduism in a respectful and inclusive environment.

Dhamma For The Dhammapada and other Buddhist sutras are

pada/ Buddhism, in available in various languages, including English
Sutras Selected and Chinese, to provide spiritual guidance for
teachings Buddhist worshippers. These texts offer teachings
and verses. on ethics, mindfulness, and wisdom, helping
individuals on their path to enlightenment. The
presence of these scriptures allows worshippers to
reflect on Buddhist principles and engage with the
philosophy of peace and compassion in an inclusive
and respectful space.

Torah/ Judaism The Torah and Tanakh, available in Hebrew, English,

Tanakh and Chinese, provide access to the sacred Jewish
（ Hebrew/ scriptures. These texts offer teachings on law,
English/C history, and spirituality, serving as a guide for
hinese） Jewish worshippers. By offering these versions in
multiple languages, the space ensures that people
of different backgrounds can engage with the Jewish
faith, promoting inclusivity and respect for diverse
religious traditions.
Cross If approved, Cross necklaces or wall crosses are provided as
Necklace placed symbols of the Christian faith. These items serve as
s or Wall discreetly. a reminder of Jesus Christ’s teachings and sacrifice.
Cross The presence of these crosses in the space allows
Christian worshippers to connect with their faith
and express their spirituality in a visible and
meaningful way, offering comfort and reflection.

Rosary For Rosary beads are provided for Christian

Beads meditative worshippers, particularly those who practice the
prayer. Catholic tradition. The beads are used for prayer
and meditation, helping individuals focus on their
spiritual journey. The presence of rosary beads in
the space allows visitors to engage in meaningful
reflection and deepen their connection to their faith
through structured prayers, such as the Rosary.

Meditatio Gentle sound Meditation bowls or bells are available for visitors to
n to use during meditation or prayer. These instruments
Bowls/Bel open/close help create a calm and focused atmosphere, aiding
ls sessions. in mindfulness and spiritual reflection. In traditions
such as Buddhism, the sound of the bell or bowl
symbolizes the start or end of a session, helping
individuals center their thoughts and connect with
their spiritual practice.

Prayer Optional use

Bells for mindful Prayer bells are used to create a peaceful
meditation. atmosphere for prayer or meditation. The sound of
the bell helps people focus and connect with their
spiritual practice. It’s used in many religions, like
Buddhism and Hinduism, to signal the start or end
of a prayer session.

Mantra For chanting Mantra scrolls or cards feature spiritual phrases or

Scrolls or or silent chants that are repeated for meditation or prayer.
Cards recitation. These mantras help people focus and deepen their
spiritual practice. They can be used in various
religions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, to bring
peace and mindfulness during worship or reflection.

Kippahs Head Kippahs, also known as yarmulkes, are small caps

coverings worn by Jewish individuals as a sign of respect and
 available for reverence for God. Wearing a kippah is a traditional
those who practice during prayer or in religious spaces.
need. Providing kippahs in the space allows Jewish visitors
to maintain this important custom while fostering
inclusivity and respect for their faith.

Prayer Used during

Shawls prayer, Prayer shawls, or tallits, are worn by Jewish people
（Tallit） especially by during prayers. The shawl has special fringes called
men. tzitzit, which remind them of God’s commandments.
Offering tallits in the space helps Jewish visitors
follow this important tradition while making the
space welcoming to everyone.

Sikh Optional for Sikh head coverings, such as turbans or scarves,

Head respectful are worn by Sikh individuals as a sign of respect
Covering entry. and humility. Wearing a head covering is an
s important part of Sikh tradition, especially during
prayer or in religious settings. Providing these
coverings in the space helps Sikh visitors practice
their faith while creating an inclusive environment
for all.

Incense Symbolic An electric incense tray is used to create a calming

Tray offering – atmosphere with the scent of incense. Unlike
（Electric） non- traditional incense, this electric version is safer for
combustible indoor use, as it doesn't involve open flames. The
in airports. tray can be used during meditation, prayer, or
reflection, helping to enhance the spiritual
experience in space.

Overall Explanation:

The multi-faith prayer room I’ve designed is a space meant to bring people
together, regardless of their religious beliefs. It features a variety of elements to
accommodate different faiths, such as prayer chairs, meditation cushions,
religious texts, and prayer items like kippahs, prayer shawls, and incense trays.
The room also offers practical features, such as labeled shoe racks, wudu-friendly
sinks, and hand sanitizer stations, ensuring comfort and cleanliness for everyone
who enters. The space is designed to be peaceful and welcoming, with acoustic
panels to reduce noise and create a serene environment for prayer and
reflection.

In my opinion, this room is more than just a physical space—it is a symbol of

unity and respect. By providing a place where individuals from different faiths
can come together, share experiences, and pray in peace, it helps foster
understanding and tolerance. This room encourages people to see the beauty in
different beliefs and practices, promoting harmony in a diverse world. It is a
reminder that, despite our differences, we all share a common desire for peace,
respect, and spiritual connection.