Evolution of Architectural Elements in the Mosques of Pakistan: Style, Influences, and Modernity
Through the ages, mosque architecture has shown regional variations in its design and style, which have their own importance and identification varying from region to region. South Asian Mosque architecture has its own style based on its cultural heritage. The legacy is maintained, and Pakistani, mosques are constructed by following the traditions. In contemporary mosque architecture, a break from tradition is evident, and new trends are introduced to adorn the architectural elements in built form and on surfaces. In the present research, focus on the evolution of mosque design and different influences like Arab, Persian and Turkish on the architectural elements are the main objectives of the study.
The present research is based on the developmental course of architectural decoration in built form, like façades, minarets, domical structures, mihrab, mimber, muadhin pew, and arches of mosques, and on surfaces, such as mosaic work, lattice work, inlay work , tile work, metal work, stucco work, relief work, calligraphy, marble, and wood carvings. The use of different decorative techniques on surfaces enhances the value of the place, and traditional and modern designs show the evolution of decorative elements in Pakistani mosque construction. The discussion of decorative techniques and modifications to style is a significant part of the research. In order to understand how traditional techniques are alive to continue the traditional styles and maintain artistic representation, the study focuses on those mosques that present a visible comparison among traditional and modern techniques and elements.
The methodology for case study and data collection is based on in-person visits to mosques and public libraries, interviews with architects, artisans, and calligraphers, and searching of websites. The Chicago manual style of qualitative research writing will be adopted to discuss this observational and exploratory research. Almost every province of Pakistan will be visited, but those mosques will be selected for research, which will show the developmental course of architectural decorative elements and foreign influences on the elements.
Keywords: Decorative techniques, Contemporary trends, Turkish influences, Development, Design, Elements.