Research Article
The Perception of the Grandeur of Mosque Architecture:
A Barthesian Semiotic Analysis of Traditional and Modern Mosques in Pidie, Aceh
Putri Puspa Sari*
,
Elysa Wulandari,
Safwan
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
49-60
Received:
6 May 2026
Accepted:
16 May 2026
Published:
28 May 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijaaa.20261202.11
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Abstract: A comparative study on grandeur perception in mosque architecture in Aceh, specifically between historic and modern buildings through a semiotic approach, has not previously been conducted. This study aims to identify and compare the architectural and non-architectural elements that constitute the perception of grandeur in Masjid Po Teumeureuhom (17th century) and Masjid Raya Pidie-Labui (1984), using Roland Barthes’ semiotic approach. The research question posed is: how is the perception of grandeur formed in traditional and modern mosques in Pidie through architectural composition analysis and Barthes’ two-order semiotic model? A qualitative descriptive-comparative study was conducted through three procedures: 1. Facade composition analysis based on five architectural composition principles (scale, balance, proportion, harmony, and contrast); 2. Barthesian two-order semiotic reading (denotation, connotation, myth) applied to nine facade elements; and 3. In-depth interviews with 8 informants, consisting of 3 key informants (mosque leaders and local historical sources) and 5 participant informants (congregants and visitors). Data triangulation was performed between physical observation, semiotic readings, and informant narratives. Results show that Masjid Po Teumeureuhom achieved grandeur in 7 of 9 compositional elements studied, whereas Masjid Raya Pidie-Labui achieved grandeur in only 3 elements, with its primary weakness being the inconsistency of style adoption that obscures architectural identity. These findings imply that architectural grandeur in mosques is not solely determined by building size, but by the consistency of meaning, integrity of cultural identity, and historical depth embedded in each architectural element.
Abstract: A comparative study on grandeur perception in mosque architecture in Aceh, specifically between historic and modern buildings through a semiotic approach, has not previously been conducted. This study aims to identify and compare the architectural and non-architectural elements that constitute the perception of grandeur in Masjid Po Teumeureuhom (1...
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Research Article
The Effectiveness of Passive Security Design Strategies in Event Centre Architecture in Nigeria
Abdullahi Yusuf*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
61-70
Received:
6 May 2026
Accepted:
15 May 2026
Published:
4 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijaaa.20261202.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: The growing frequency of security events in public assembly buildings has created a demand for design-based security techniques that enhance safety without sacrificing architectural quality or user experience. Passive security design solutions, which rely on environmental design rather than mechanical surveillance, offer a long-term and non-intrusive method of crime prevention. This study investigates the effectiveness of passive security design solutions in event centre architecture in Nigeria, using Abuja as a case study. A structured questionnaire was administered to 112 built-environment professionals, including architects, engineers, event centre managers, and security personnel. Cronbach's alpha values varied from 0.679 to 0.818, demonstrating adequate internal consistency. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, the Relative Importance Index (RII), mean score ranking, and the Kruskal-Wallis H tests. The findings indicate that landscape and building design are the most effective passive security strategies (RII = 0.766), followed by access control and physical security measures. Major roadblocks include high initial costs, regulatory constraints, and a lack of professional capability. Resistance to change, skilled labour availability, and material access all demonstrated statistically significant differences between professional and age groups. According to the study, including passive security early in the planning phase can significantly increase safety at Nigerian event venues. Aside from identifying effective solutions, the article provides a feasible multi-layered design framework that incorporates passive security concepts into site layout, spatial zoning, illumination, and supporting technology. Architects and policymakers can use a design-based framework and spatial strategy to build safer event centre environments.
Abstract: The growing frequency of security events in public assembly buildings has created a demand for design-based security techniques that enhance safety without sacrificing architectural quality or user experience. Passive security design solutions, which rely on environmental design rather than mechanical surveillance, offer a long-term and non-intrusi...
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