Spiritual Coexistence SERIES  •  Project FEATURE

Harmony – The Abrahamic Family House by Adjaye Associates

The Abrahamic Family House stands as a new center for learning, dialogue, and religious practice in Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Cultural District. This visionary project encompasses a mosque, a church, and a synagogue, alongside shared spaces dedicated to fostering interreligious dialogue and understanding.

Each house of worship within the Abrahamic Family House is meticulously designed to accommodate the practices and traditions of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. This architectural marvel symbolizes unity amidst diversity, embracing different beliefs, nationalities, and cultures.

"The design of the Abrahamic Family House integrates symbolic elements from three major religions into clear geometric forms, fostering a sense of unity and harmony."

The architectural concept features three distinct cubes resting on a pedestal, each surrounded by courtyards adorned with triangular water features. The use of off-white concrete reflects both religious symbolism and the natural landscape of the UAE.

The design of the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, oriented towards Mecca, incorporates delicate GRP lattice screens that filter light and circulate air. Monolithic columns symbolize stability and order, guiding visitors towards the mihrab. Spaces for ablution and a pyramid-ceilinged chamber for purification further enhance the mosque's architectural significance within the Abrahamic Family House.

The St. Francis Church, facing east to capture the morning sun, features a forest of columns that invite natural light into its interior. Inspired by St. Peter's Basilica, oak pews and a minimalist crucifix reflect inclusivity and ecumenical openness. Adjacent to the church, a baptistry with a conical form and scattered windows creates a serene environment for spiritual rituals, blending ancient tradition with contemporary design.

The Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue, oriented towards Jerusalem, employs V-shaped columns reminiscent of palm fronds from the sukkah, used during the Jewish festival of Sukkot. A bronze mesh tent symbolizes the original tabernacle and filters daylight into the sanctuary.

The Abrahamic Family House also includes a secular community space known as the Forum, designed to serve as a focal point for gatherings and educational programming. A raised garden offers panoramic views of the religious structures, promoting unity while respecting their individual identities.

This visionary project aims to achieve an Estidama 2 Pearl rating, employing passive cooling strategies and energy-efficient lighting technologies to minimize environmental impact and create a sustainable, welcoming environment.

Moreover, the garden within the Abrahamic Family House not only serves as a climate-moderated oasis but also as a symbolic representation of unity and diversity. Featuring locally sourced trees such as the ghaf and date palms, it provides a tranquil space for reflection and community engagement, emphasizing the project's commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural inclusivity.