Modern Islamic architecture has recently been taken to a new level with such buildings being erected such as the
Burj Khalifa, currently the world's tallest building. The Burj Khalifa's design is derived from the patterning systems embodied in Islamic architecture, with the triple-lobed footprint of the building based on an abstracted version of the desert flower
hymenocallis which is native to the Dubai region. Nature and flowers have often been the focal point in most traditional Islamic designs. Many modern interpretations of Islamic architecture can be found in
Dubai due to the architectural boom of the Arab World. Yet to be built is
Madinat al-Hareer in
Kuwait which also has modern versions of Islamic architecture in its epically tall tower.
Another example of modern Islamic architecture is the
King Abdulaziz International Airport's Hajj Terminal, designed for pilgims on the
Hajj in
Saudi Arabia. The terminal's
Bangladeshi architect
Fazlur Khan received the
Aga Khan Award for Architecture for "An Outstanding Contribution to Architecture for Muslims". Khan was also the inventor of the
tube structure design used in all
supertall skyscrapers since the 1960s.
Interpretation
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Common interpretations of Islamic architecture include the following: The concept of
Allah's infinite power is evoked by designs with repeating themes which suggest infinity. Human and animal forms are rarely depicted in
decorative art as Allah's work is considered to be matchless. Foliage is a frequent motif but typically stylized or simplified for the same reason.
Arabic Calligraphy is used to enhance the interior of a building by providing quotations from the
Qur'an. Islamic architecture has been called the "architecture of the veil" because the beauty lies in the inner spaces (courtyards and rooms) which are not visible from the outside (street view). Furthermore, the use of grandiose forms such as large domes, towering minarets, and large courtyards are intended to convey power.