As the primary author, I conducted in-depth research and analysis for this study on revitalizing the civic and architectural spirit of mosques in the Balkans. My role encompassed developing the conceptual framework, examining historical and contemporary mosque architecture, and identifying socio-cultural factors affecting their design and use. I led the design case study in Skopje, which serves as the foundation for proposing a harmonious blend of traditional motifs and modern architectural approaches. My contribution extends to the formulation of design strategies aimed at enhancing the aesthetic and community significance of mosque spaces in the region, drawing insights from renowned architectural theories and integrating them into practical applications.
Research paper Title
Reviving the Civic and Architectural Spirit of Mosques in the Balkans – A Skopje Case Study
Personal Biography
Ibrahim Beqiri is an award-winning architect and designer based in Istanbul, Turkiye, originally from Prishtina, Kosova. With a career spanning from 2014, Ibrahim has developed a versatile portfolio that includes architecture, urban design, interior design, and product design. He is the founder and lead architect-designer of SHAPE & SHADE, a vivid architecture and design atelier known for its transformative approach to spaces, buildings, and objects.
Ibrahim's expertise extends across various disciplines, blending architectural and graphic design to craft unique identities for spaces, objects, and products. His work is characterized by a strong affinity for natural hues and organic forms, reflecting his commitment to creating meaningful connections with the built environment.
He currently serves as a lead architectural designer, researcher, and urban designer at SANALarc, where he leads diverse, cross-cultural projects globally. Ibrahim also co-founded MODUL, an NGO focused on architectural education and critical discourse, and has been actively involved in community engagement through initiatives like the MODUL Academy.
Ibrahim's work has been recognized in numerous prestigious competitions, including the World Architecture Festival, where his project "Kamenica's Transit Oases" was shortlisted in 2024. His design for the 'Bold Shkam' chair, a modern interpretation of the traditional Albanian stool, will be showcased at the Dutch Design Week 2024.
Ibrahim holds a Master’s degree in Architectural Design from Istanbul Bilgi University and a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Prishtina University ‘Hasan Prishtina’. Fluent in Albanian, English, and Turkish, with basic knowledge of Spanish and German, Ibrahim continues to explore the intersections of architecture, design, and urbanism with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
Paper Abstract
This paper traces the historical evolution of mosques in the Balkans, examining their architectural and social significance. Historically, these mosques served not only as places of worship but also as vibrant community hubs, distinguished by intricate designs that reflected the cultural identity of the region. Over time, modernization, socio-political changes, and urbanization led to a gradual decline in their architectural splendor and community roles.
In the 21st century, many mosques have become disconnected from their historical functions, with modern designs often lacking the aesthetic and social depth of their predecessors. This paper analyzes the gap created by modernism and its impact on mosque architecture in the region.
Methodologically, the study focuses on analyzing the site of the mosque, extracting the functions within, and examining its relationship to the surrounding urban fabric. It also evaluates the materials and volumetric composition used in the design. Using a case study from Skopje, the paper illustrates how brick—a symbolic material—can blend tradition with modernity to harmonize past and present architectural styles.
At the heart of the design philosophy is the seamless transition from the outer to the inner, from the tangible to the intangible. The inner courtyard becomes a sanctuary, symbolizing the journey from noise to silence, reflecting Islamic rituals. Inside, simplicity prevails, with subtle floral motifs and a dome that shifts from white to blue, representing the earthly and eternal.
The paper advocates for a reimagining of mosques as centers of spiritual and communal life. It emphasizes the need to reconnect with the Ottoman architectural spirit while addressing contemporary needs, restoring mosques as focal points of both beauty and community.
Keywords:
Albanian Mosques, Identity Preservation, Civic Mosques, Reviving Mosque Spirit, Architectural Revival, Balkan Mosques
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed consequat velit at ante bibendum, in dictum elit dignissim. Integer ac ligula eu quam commodo elementum. Aliquam erat volutpat. Phasellus ut justo vel sapien efficitur cursus. Proin nec leo vel dolor gravida consectetur.
Ut id tortor nec turpis lacinia feugiat. Aliquam erat volutpat. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas. Vestibulum nec cursus nisl. Integer ut quam ac nulla venenatis iaculis vel vel turpis. Fusce hendrerit arcu at dui euismod, id suscipit justo pulvinar. Nulla facilisi.