The shape derives from that of Islam’s holiest building, the Kaaba in Makkah, standing firm and proud but here chamfered into an angular conical form and tilted towards the qibla. It is deliberately taller than surrounding structures, to reflect the functional hierarchy. The material palette is earthy. Small gaps in the skin of inexpensive ulin-wood slats, mounted on a steel frame, create a cool airflow and allow spots of light to enter. The main daylight source is from a small opening in the roof. The privacy of prayer is underlined by entrance passageways tunnelling through the grassy slopes, and by a surrounding reflecting pond. The washroom and toilet are kept deliberately separate from the main block, low and unobtrusive. 

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture