Kirikkale Nur Mosque Lighting Design by ZEVE Studio

The Kirikkale Nur Mosque, a stunning architectural wonder located in Kirikkale, Turkey, showcases the exceptional lighting design by ZEVE Lighting Design Studio. This project commenced with a profound question: Can light truly evoke emotions within us? Drawing inspiration from late Ottoman architecture, the mosque features a grand main dome, eight carrier columns, four secondary domes, five entrance domes, and four three-balcony minarets. The main dome boasts an impressive inner diameter of 20 meters and a height of 32 meters, while the minarets reach an impressive height of 61 meters. The mosque's design extends in both the west and east directions, enclosed by a domed portico that beautifully frames the courtyard.

The primary aim of the lighting design was to emphasize the mosque's spiritual identity and to establish it as an iconic landmark within the city of Kirikkale. To achieve this, the ZEVE design team employed a strategic approach, focusing on highlighting the main architectural elements while creating depth through the clever use of shadows. Different color temperatures were utilized to differentiate surfaces and materials, and various wattages and optics were applied to ensure a harmonious relationship among the illuminated surfaces. This meticulous attention to detail not only accentuated the mosque's beauty but also fostered a profound connection between the structure and its surroundings.

The interplay of light and shadow contributed to a mystical aura surrounding the mosque, enhancing its form and definition. The incident light, when cast from a short distance, created a mesmerizing three-dimensionality on the onion-shaped mini domes atop the carrier columns, allowing sparkles to dance upon the crescent shapes. In contrast, the patterned windows situated beneath the half-domes were illuminated, while the half-domes themselves remained in shadow, creating a striking visual effect. This careful orchestration of light transformed the mosque into a captivating spectacle, inviting admiration from all who behold it.

The lighting scheme was designed to be perceived from great distances, reinforcing the mosque's status as a symbolic representation of the city. In alignment with sustainable practices, lighting levels were meticulously limited to what was necessary to achieve the design's objectives. By utilizing efficient LED luminaires equipped with the appropriate optics, the project minimized energy consumption. Controlled uplighting techniques were employed to mitigate light pollution, ensuring that light spillage did not disrupt the tranquil surroundings. This commitment to sustainability reflects a modern approach to architectural design while preserving the mosque's historical significance.

The Kirikkale Nur Mosque has garnered international acclaim, receiving three prestigious awards in the architectural facade lighting category. The judges praised the application of 'just enough' light and the thoughtful integration of warm and cool light sources, which beautifully complemented the character of the façade elements. The ZEVE design team created detailed 3D models of the mosque, enabling them to produce photorealistic renderings from various angles. This allowed for precise adjustments to the lighting scheme, resulting in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant architectural masterpiece. In conclusion, the Kirikkale Nur Mosque stands as a testament to the profound impact that light can have on architecture, enhancing both its beauty and spiritual significance.

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