Our Architecture
Designed by Pritzker Prize laureate Glenn Murcutt AO in collaboration with Hakan Elevli, the Australian Islamic Centre in Newport, Melbourne is a globally celebrated architectural landmark.
Completed in 2016, the centre features 96 coloured lanterns inspired by Islamic geometry that flood the prayer hall with kaleidoscopic light. The building is precisely oriented towards Mecca and employs natural ventilation and passive cooling — a hallmark of Murcutt's environmentally responsive practice.
The centre won the Victorian Architecture Medal in 2017, the AIA National Award for Public Architecture, and was shortlisted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
World Architecture
Festival Winner 2017
A Dialogue Between Tradition & Innovation
Designed by the renowned Glenn Murcutt in collaboration with Hakan Elevli, the Australian Islamic Centre represents a masterful synthesis of Islamic architectural traditions and contemporary Australian design sensibilities.
The building challenges conventional mosque architecture by reimagining sacred space through the lens of Australian light, landscape, and climate. Every element serves both functional and spiritual purposes.
Award Winner
World Architecture Festival
Architectural Features
Natural Light Design
Strategic skylight placement floods the prayer hall with natural light, creating an atmosphere of spiritual tranquility.
Qibla Orientation
The entire building is precisely aligned towards the Kaaba in Mecca, ensuring accurate prayer direction.
Sustainable Design
Natural ventilation systems and energy-efficient features minimize environmental impact.
Water Features
Reflective pools and fountains create a sense of peace and echo traditional Islamic garden design.
Contemporary Geometry
Modern interpretation of traditional Islamic geometric patterns throughout the structure.
Gallery
Experience the beauty of our architectural masterpiece.
The expansive prayer hall with its stunning ceiling design
The contemporary façade featuring the 99 names
Intricate dome design with natural light
The serene courtyard with water features
Awards & Accolades
2017
Australian Institute of Architects Award
Public Architecture
2017
World Architecture Festival Award
Religious Building of the Year
2018
Aga Khan Award for Architecture
Shortlisted
The challenge was to create a building that speaks to both Islamic tradition and Australian identity - a place where faith, light, and landscape converge.
Glenn Murcutt AO
Pritzker Prize Laureate, Lead Architect
Experience It In Person
Photos can only capture so much. Visit the Australian Islamic Centre to truly experience this architectural masterpiece.
Plan Your Visit