Efficacious Architecture in Muslim Societies: The Mosque

This book series discusses architectural excellence in Islamic societies by utilizing textual and visual materials developed over more than three decades. It is the continuity of the book project that was initiated earlier.  At the core of the discussion are the efforts, processes, and outcomes of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture that continues to recognize excellence in architectural and urban interventions within societies of cities and settlements within the global south, which are continuously challenged by a dramatic change in the economy, society, political systems, decision making, and environmental needs. The need for architectural awards and their validity is a point pondered on at times, even by mainstream professional architects. Are they necessary? The researchers assert, “yes.” Awards are critical; they validate the achievements of professional architects while making their contributions more widely acknowledged by the public, hence promoting excellence in architecture. Some awards recognize the extraordinary lifetime achievement of an architect while others praise projects for virtues offering guidance that change the status quo toward societal betterment. The Aga Khan Award for Architecture (AKAA) continues to focus its interest on these areas.