pleated brick walls craft folding facade over java mosque by ismail solehudin architecture

Jami At-Taqwa Mosque in Cibinong by Ismail Solehudin

The Jami At-Taqwa Mosque in Cibinong, Indonesia, designed by Ismail Solehudin Architecture, explores the relationship between architectural form, spirituality, and community. The design concept draws from the word masjid, ‘place of prostration,’ and expands upon the spiritual act of sujud (prostration). Inspired by the writings of Imam Al-Ghazali, the architects interpret sujud as an act that metaphorically folds the vastness of the cosmos, bringing the worshiper closer to the Divine. This metaphor of ‘folding the expanse’ serves as the foundation of the project’s architectural language. The mosque’s primary form is characterized by folding roofs and pleated walls. These gestures establish a dynamic architectural identity while shaping a spatial experience defined by natural light, shadow, and material warmth. The folded surfaces evoke movement and continuity, reflecting themes of devotion and community presence.

all images courtesy of Ismail Solehudin Architecture

translating abstract spiritual concepts into built form

Located along a busy urban street, the mosque incorporates an arcade and a planted buffer to minimize noise and dust from surrounding traffic. The design team at Ismail Solehudin Architecture extends the mosque’s folding motif through a canopy structure above the arcade, creating a gradual spatial transition from exterior to interior. This threshold space functions as both environmental protection and a contemplative approach to the prayer hall. The arcade also organizes circulation to the ablution facilities and prayer areas. Separate pathways for men and women maintain spatial privacy and prevent overlap of movement. The ground floor accommodates the men’s prayer hall, while the upper level houses the women’s prayer area, both connected through the articulated arcade system.

The minaret is positioned along the qibla axis, serving as both a structural and symbolic marker of orientation. Its form continues the folding geometry of the facade, emphasizing verticality and reinforcing the spiritual axis of the mosque. Exposed brick with perforations provides natural ventilation and visual texture, while exposed concrete is used for the roof structure. The combination of these materials produces a balanced atmosphere, robust yet permeable, grounded in its urban setting while inviting openness and light. The resulting architecture supports communal worship while remaining connected to its environment, translating abstract spiritual concepts into built form.

Jami At-Taqwa Mosque in Cibinong is designed by Ismail Solehudin Architecture

the design explores the connection between architecture, spirituality, and community

light and shadow play across the building’s geometric surfaces

the minaret aligns with the qibla axis, reinforcing the mosque’s spiritual direction

exposed concrete roofing complements the warm texture of the brick

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project info:

name: Jami At-Taqwa Mosque, Cibinong — Melipat Hamparan Jarak Alam Raya

architect: Ismail Solehudin Architecture | @ismailsolehudinarchitecture

location: Cibinong, Java, Indonesia

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom