INFLUENCE OF MIHRAB GEOMETRY ON ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE IN MALAYSIAN MOSQUES USING COMPUTER SIMULATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v24i44.2310Keywords:
Mosque Architecture, Architectural Acoustics, Mihrab GeometryAbstract
Acoustic quality is essential in mosque architecture as it influences speech intelligibility and worshippers' auditory experience. Although the mihrab is a prominent architectural element, its contribution to the overall acoustic performance of mosques remains insufficiently understood. This study evaluates the influence of mihrab geometry on the acoustic performance of six Malaysian mosques using ODEON room acoustic simulation. Three acoustic parameters, namely Sound Pressure Level (SPL), Speech Transmission Index (STI), and Reverberation Time (RT), were analysed to compare different mihrab configurations. The findings reveal that variations in mihrab geometry have only a limited effect on acoustic performance, whereas prayer hall volume, ceiling configuration, and surface materials exert greater influence on speech intelligibility and sound distribution. The study highlights the importance of considering holistic architectural design strategies in mosque planning while preserving traditional mihrab forms. These findings provide practical guidance for architects, planners, and conservation practitioners in designing and conserving acoustically effective mosque environments.
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