Neoclassical Marvel: Ahmet Hamdi Akseki Mosque Shines with Thoughtful Lighting Design

The Ahmet Hamdi Akseki Mosque, designed in a neoclassical style, stands as a magnificent symbol of the Anatolian Seljuk State. Its grandeur is evident in the main dome, boasting a remarkable diameter of 33 meters, and four towering minarets reaching a height of 66 meters. Spanning a total closed area of 80,000 square meters, this mosque is a true architectural marvel.

Throughout the structure, the Seljuk-star-pattern, one of the most significant symbols of the Anatolian Seljuk State, is prominently featured. These intricate patterns can be found in the cross sections of the minarets, adding a touch of elegance and historical significance to the mosque.

When it came to the facade lighting, the design team aimed to create an iconic symbol for the city of Ankara. Their approach focused on enhancing the perception of the architecture and defining the structure. By strategically highlighting the main architectural elements and incorporating shadows, the team achieved a visually stunning lighting effect.

To bring their vision to life, the design team utilized lighting fixtures of different wattages and various optics. Detailed 3D modeling of the mosque was carried out, resulting in photorealistic renderings from different angles. This allowed the team to fine-tune the lighting design and ensure a positive outcome.

One notable lighting feature is the long-distance light throws from the minarets, aimed at creating a captivating moonlight effect on the main dome. Narrow beams of light were also used on the minarets to accentuate the star-shaped cross sections, with a smooth degrading light effect that gracefully highlights the balconies.

The main facade of the mosque showcases two opposing lighting strategies to break the routine. While the columns are accented from the front, the big star-patterned daylight apertures are accentuated from the back, creating a striking contrast. The horizontal structures of the building are emphasized, adding depth and dimension to the architecture.

Moving to the interior, the design approach was to create a simple, calm, and peaceful environment. Natural daylight and artificial lighting were combined to achieve this desired atmosphere. Surprisingly, no chandeliers were used in the design, as the prayer areas were evenly illuminated by double-focus downlights placed around the dome.

Indirect lighting played a key role in enhancing the architectural elements and creating a sense of tranquility. Both horizontal and vertical planes were utilized to achieve this effect. The dome itself was uniformly lit with RGB fixtures, providing flexibility in choosing colors, while narrow-beam projectors accentuated the center-piece from four vaults. The appliques on the walls contributed to the overall perception of the interior, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

The Ahmet Hamdi Akseki Mosque stands as a testament to the meticulous design and attention to detail by the ZEVE Lighting Design Studio architectural studio. Its neoclassical style, incorporation of historical symbolism, and thoughtful lighting design have made it a true architectural gem in the heart of Ankara. This mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also as a source of inspiration and admiration for all who have the privilege of experiencing its beauty.

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