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WJKK WJKF everyone, Just to add some much needed input to a discussion taking place on the main page regarding the design of Sikh Gurdwaras: https://www.sikhsangat.com/index.php?/topic/83132-gurdwara-designs/ TejS said: No. It's a very common misconception to refer to something as 'Arabian' architecture. The 'Arabian' style is very different and this is well articulated by the designs of Moorish Islamic architecture in Spain. This photograph from 1915 of the great mosque of Kufa demonstrates well I think what the Arabian architectural style of a mosque always was: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a2/Kufa_Mosque%2C_1915.jpg So you see, our Sikh Gurdwara architectural style is organically influenced by the Persian style (very different to the Arabian style) which itself was heavily based on the Byzantium style via the eastern orthodox Christian style. Indeed before Islam was even born eastern orthodox Christian churches were already erected using the Byzantium architectural style, i.e. onion domes: (see pictures of some orthodox churches below) In essence then, you need not concentrate too much on any 'islamic' influence and remember that the Sikh style of architecture cannot be separated from the natural and profound influence western Asia has had on the Punjab as a whole, regardless of whether it is language, buildings, culture or the layout of villages. And then, secondly, you need to remember that the Persian style that influenced us was in turn influenced by the eastern orthodox style which in turn was influenced by the Byzantium style. We, the Sikhs, didn't just fall out of the sky one day centuries ago....everybody is influenced by something...but don't get too hung up on any Islamic aspect because the muslims too were influenced by something that came before them.

Excellent link with pics of one of India's most underappreciated but most amazing architectural marvels. https://www.boredpanda.com/ancient-architecture-unesco-heritage-stepwell-victoria-lautman-india/

Hello brothers, I have come here to respectfully ask for help, I am an architect currently working on a project for a Sikh Temple in central London and I have been researching about Sikhism - beeing impressed with the tought and the path of the religion, it has helped me get a good insight on it. Although I need your help so I can understand better what are the needs in a Sikh sacred space, I want to project a building that allows Sikhs in London to be able to do all the practices in confort and in a place that is adapted to them. thank you so much in advance and peace be with you.