What the study found
The study found that mosque development in Greater Phoenix is shaped by a range of local contextual factors, not just design preferences. It highlights demographic, economic, social, and civic relationships as part of the process from conception to construction.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say this matters because mosques are growing rapidly in U.S. cities, while architects, designers, and planners have limited resources for creating context-sensitive solutions. The study suggests this framework can help address practical community needs rather than focusing only on aesthetics.
What the researchers tested
The article used a case study of eight mosques in Greater Phoenix, also described as the Valley of the Sun. It examined mosque construction within a relational regional context and drew on an interdisciplinary framework to understand the urban development process.
What worked and what didn't
The findings indicate that interfaith solidarity, relationships with city officials, and architect advocacy played important roles in shaping mosque designs. The article also says that factors such as demographics, economics, and social conditions influenced development from conception to construction.
What to keep in mind
The abstract describes a case study of eight mosques in one U.S. region, so the scope is limited to that setting. It does not provide detailed limitations beyond noting that the article shifts attention away from prior work focused mainly on aesthetics.
Key points
- Mosque development in Greater Phoenix is shaped by demographic, economic, social, and civic factors.
- Interfaith solidarity, city officials, and architect advocacy are identified as important influences.
- The study uses a case study of eight mosques in the Valley of the Sun.
- The authors say the work shifts attention from mosque aesthetics to development processes and community needs.
- The abstract frames the study as an interdisciplinary contextual framework for mosque construction in the U.S.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Mosque design in Phoenix is shaped by local context
- Authors:
- Hassnaa Mohammed
- Institutions:
- Indiana University Bloomington
- Publication date:
- 2026-02-28
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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