Renowned Ghanaian Architect David Adjaye Designs Multi-Faith Complex In Abu Dhabi

• Celebrated Ghanaian architect David Adjaye has designed a new multi-faith complex in Abu Dhabi that was commissioned by the United Arab Emirates
• The mega-complex called the "Abrahamic Family House" accommodates a mosque, church and synagogue
• The project inculcates many architectural designs often seen in mosques, churches and synagogues worldwide

The United Arab Emirates commissioned Ghanaian architect David Adjaye to design an interfaith complex called the Abrahamic Family House.

The mega interfaith project accommodates a mosque and church - the Gulf Arab nation's first-ever purpose-built synagogue.

The design, which well-known Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye created, blends several architectural forms often seen in mosques, cathedrals and synagogues worldwide. The architecture was designed to highlight the similarities between the three Abrahamic religions.

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The multi-faith complex comprises the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, His Holiness Francis Church and Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue.

In an interview with CNN, David Adjaye said:

What you'll see in all the projects is that it's always about a filtering of light, a splitting of light. In the Mosque...the light surrounds you until you get to the silence and the stoicness of facing Mecca. In the church, you hear the sound of rushing water. For me, water is so important in Christianity.

The synagogue is the first specifically designed Jewish house of worship in the UAE; it points towards Jerusalem like most synagogues worldwide.

According to David Adjaye, each structure is a cube of 30 meters (98 feet) by 30 meters and is unique. The unifying concept provides a common ground for encouraging tolerance and understanding.

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Meet David Adjaye, the Ghanaian architect who has designed important buildings in America, Norway and Russia

In an earlier story, YEN.com.gh wrote about how celebrated Ghanaian architect David Adjaye has designed important buildings worldwide. Sir David Adjaye is known for designing iconic structures like the USA's National Museum of African American History and Culture. He received an award from the British government for his excellent deeds and became the first African to get the Royal Gold Medal and the first black architect to receive the honour in its 173-year existence.

Source: YEN.com.gh