The Infinite Light pavilion marks the start of Ramadan and highlights Bradford's cultural diversity.
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A new site-specific pavilion, named Infinite Light, has been unveiled in the heart of Bradford city centre as part of the celebrations for the 2025 UK City of Culture. This artistic installation, designed by artist Zarah Hussain and architectural designer Fatima Mejbil, marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan and the launch of the Ramadan Festival 2025.
Connecting communities through design
The Ramadan Tent Project, in collaboration with Bradford 2025, commissioned this project, which follows the inaugural Ramadan Pavilion designed by Shahed Saleem in 2023. The pavilion will be located in Centenary Square starting from February 14, serving as the second edition of the Ramadan Pavilion initiative.
This year’s structure embodies the festival’s theme of Connection, drawing inspiration from various architectural traditions to create an inclusive space for all communities in Bradford. As Ramadan commenced on March 1 this year, the pavilion stands as a timely focal point for reflection, gathering, and cultural celebration throughout the holy month.
Architectural inspiration and design elements
The design features a double-archway structure, with the lower arch influenced by the colonnaded courtyards of sacred and civic spaces, including those surrounding the holy sanctuary in Mecca, built in the 16th century. The higher arch references Venetian Gothic architecture, known for its pointed forms and intricate stonework, reminiscent of elements found in Bradford’s City Hall, designed in the 1870s by local architect Henry Francis Lockwood.
Each evening during Ramadan, the pavilion will be illuminated at sunset, marking the end of the daily fast. As a key element of the Ramadan Festival, it serves as a contemplative and welcoming space, designed to foster engagement across different communities.
Highlighting Bradford’s cultural heritage
The presence of the pavilion in the city centre aims to showcase Bradford’s rich cultural heritage while providing visitors with an opportunity to explore Islamic arts and architecture. The biennial Ramadan Pavilion first appeared in 2023 at the V&A Museum in South Kensington, designed by architect Shahed Saleem. This year, its placement in Bradford aligns with the city’s designation as the UK City of Culture 2025.
The Ramadan Festival, organized by the Ramadan Tent Project, includes a series of artistic, cultural, and community events, alongside Open Iftar, the UK’s largest communal Ramadan gathering. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community and cultural exchange during the holy month.
Contemporary mosque design and cultural narratives
Islamic architecture continues to inspire contemporary design, merging historical influences with innovative approaches to space and form. In related news, the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 has opened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, showcasing over 60 works that explore spirituality and cultural narratives through art, architecture, and design. Additionally, East Architecture Studio has been awarded the inaugural Almusalla Prize at the Biennale for their interpretation of a contemporary prayer space, integrating natural light and local materials to create a meditative environment.
More broadly, this editorial examines how contemporary mosque design is evolving towards context-driven architecture, reflecting the changing cultural and spatial needs across different regions.
