November Update: a New Mosque

This month, much of our focus has been on the detailed M&E design for an extension for a mosque, a complex project that brings together engineering, coordination, and a high level of precision. As with any bespoke building, there are unique challenges that need careful attention; this isn’t a straightforward office block with a predictable 9–5 occupancy. A mosque is used throughout the day with constant fluctuations in usage and large peaks at prayer times. Designing for unpredictability is one of the engineering challenges we’re navigating on this project. Here is how it’s going so far.

The first priority has been coordinating the below-ground services before foundation works progress. This includes planning underground electrical cables, gas ducts, and drainage routes. Drainage in particular must be positioned early, as these runs need to work around the foundations and align precisely with the above-ground layouts.

Next, as we’ve previously talked about, lighting is critical for design and function. Lighting for a mosque involves understanding usage patterns, preferred lighting tone, and the required light levels for different spaces. We are currently preparing lighting points and specifications so that the final selection of fittings can be incorporated smoothly into the design. This includes selecting low-energy light sources with suitable control gear and using automatic controls where appropriate. All external lighting is being developed in line with CIBSE Lighting Guide 6 and the ILE guidance on minimising obtrusive light, ensuring the mosque remains well lit without creating unnecessary spill.

We have been mapping out all the internal services and setting out how the water, gas, and electrical systems will run through the building. This includes detailing pipework, ducting, and cable routes to ensure proper separation between services, such as keeping water pipes clear of electrical cables, and providing adequate space for future equipment. Our work covers the configuration of small power upgrades, intruder alarm, CCTV, and access control systems.

One of the most significant aspects of this project is the ablution area, where worshippers will wash their feet before prayer. At peak times as many as 300 people may come through in a 10-15 minute window. This creates a short, intense demand for hot water. However the usage pattern isn’t consistent, sometimes only 30% might use the foot-washing area, other times 70%. With that unpredictability, we have to design the system to handle the highest expected load, ensuring rapid recovery and stable temperatures.

We are reviewing the ventilation needs across all areas. This includes assessing extract requirements for toilets and ablution spaces and ensuring the fresh air supply meets current ventilation regulations. We’re looking at occupancy levels, how CO₂ will be managed, and whether this can be supported by opening windows or if mechanical ventilation or MVHR units will be needed. We’re also checking for any additional ventilation requirements linked to heat gains, heat losses, and general use of the spaces.

The client would also like the option for air conditioning in the future, so part of our work now is to ensure the building can accommodate it later. However, in a building of this scale we can’t make assumptions about the equipment. It is much larger than a detached house, which means domestic-type cooling systems aren’t suitable. To leave the right space, ducts, and power supplies in place, we need to know what type of system will eventually be installed and how it will be arranged.

We’ve also had discussions with the client and architect about the heating strategy. Initially we were told to design full underfloor heating throughout, which we completed, then were later asked to add radiators on the upper floors. These are the types of clarifications we work through with the team to ensure the final system is both practical and cost-effective.

This mosque project continues to be an interesting and rewarding challenge. With its mix of specialist requirements, it’s an engineering puzzle we like working through. As we move into the next phase, we’ll continue refining the design and we look forward to delivering a robust and efficient building. If you’d like similar support on a complex project, we’re always ready to help.