Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: The Retal Mosque, a cutting-edge architectural concept designed by Pace, has earned global recognition by winning the Future Project: Competition Entries category at the 2024 World Architecture Festival (WAF). Held in Singapore, the WAF is the world’s largest live-judged architecture awards program, celebrating groundbreaking designs that redefine architectural norms.
The Retal Mosque, located in Nesaj Town 2, Dammam, Saudi Arabia, captivated the jury of 175 industry experts, who reviewed over 480 projects from 71 countries across 43 categories. The mosque’s innovative design merges spirituality, modernity, and sustainability, offering a transformative experience that reimagines the traditional mosque concept.
A Modern Sanctuary: Described as a “floating gem,” the mosque’s striking design serves as an oasis within the urban environment. Architect Tarek Shuaib, CEO of Pace, explained, “Our vision was to create a mosque that resonates with both the traditional and contemporary sensibilities of the community. The experience of entering the mosque is meant to feel transformative, like stepping into a sanctuary where the outside world slows down.”
The mosque features separate, thoughtfully designed spaces for male and female worshippers. Its elevated structure shelters a sunken male prayer hall, fostering an atmosphere of introspection, while the ground-level female prayer space emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity.
Sustainability at Its Core: True to Retal’s vision, “We build for generations,” the mosque incorporates sustainable principles inspired by LEED and WELL standards. The design uses passive shading through a large canopy to minimize thermal heat gain, while its sunken prayer hall naturally reduces temperatures.
The surrounding courtyard integrates greenery, reflective pools, and pathways that enhance thermal comfort and create a serene environment. The mosque also employs an innovative grey-water recycling system, channeling rainwater for irrigation and fountains, reinforcing its role as an environmentally conscious community hub.
Architectural Innovation Meets Spiritual Depth: Reflective pools and a rotating canopy oriented toward the Qibla provide worshippers with a meditative setting that harmonizes natural elements of light and water. Shuaib added, “The Retal Mosque represents the future of religious spaces – places that embrace modernity without losing sight of cultural and spiritual depth.”
The project’s commitment to sustainability, beauty, and community-centered design has set a new benchmark for religious spaces worldwide. The award solidifies Pace’s reputation as a leader in global architectural innovation.
Global Recognition: Commenting on the win, Shuaib said, “We are incredibly honored to receive this prestigious global award. It reflects the creativity and hard work of everyone involved and highlights our dedication to creating designs that resonate on a global scale.”
The Retal Mosque stands as a testament to the evolving role of architecture in fostering spiritual and community connections while championing sustainability. As it garners international acclaim, it serves as a beacon for the future of religious architecture, blending tradition with modernity to inspire generations to come.
