Designing a Muslim Millennial Neighborhood Community Center in Gedung Johor with an Empathic Architectural Approach

Abstract

Indonesia, as one of the countries with the largest Muslim population in the world, also has a significant millennial population. This generation needs a physical space that not only serves as a place of worship, but also supports social activities and self-development that suit their character and lifestyle. Therefore, a residential neighborhood-scale Muslim millennial community center with an embracing empathic architectural approach is able to address their social and spiritual needs in a balanced manner. The methodology used is research-based design that focuses on the characteristics, needs, and problems of millennials. Data were collected through literature studies, field observations, interviews, and questionnaires to Muslim millennials in Medan city, then analyzed to formulate design concepts elaborated through the principles of empathic architecture to produce functionally and emotionally relevant design solutions. The result of this study is the design of a community center with an empathic architecture theme applied in a program of spaces and activities such as mosques, multipurpose halls, pavilions, educational spaces, commercial spaces, parks, and sports facilities. The main concept is embracing space, which is the composition of building masses that "hug" public spaces as the heart of shared activities. These spaces are designed for all ages and walks of life, with interactive experiences such as curbside seating, dining areas and shops, open-air libraries, and sports fields. Architecturally, the design is developed through zoning that strategically separates quiet and active areas, and pedestrian circulation that connects zones with a progressive spatial experience. The mass layout is designed to be open and human-scaled, while the building façade features natural materials, wide openings, and simple yet expressive forms. Several elements such as open shaded spaces, informal circular seating areas, and landscape integration are part of the architectural details that support user interaction and emotional comfort. In addition, the empathic approach is also realized through the use of facade details inspired by the Javanese community in Medan Johor, as well as the presence of an open pavilion and multipurpose building as a form of empathy for the traditions and communal activities of the local community. The design not only addresses functional needs, but also provides an immersive and empowering spatial experience, making it a place of social and spiritual growth for Muslim millennials in the contemporary urban context.