In this episode of Deconstructed, host Matthew Lloyd Roberts is joined by Shukri Sultan, a lecturer at Westminster University, to explore the story of Al Manaar Mosque in West London. Together, they unpack how this unassuming building became a vital hub for faith, community, and resilience — especially in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire.

Correction, the correct meaning of the word masjid is not "place of prayer", a more accurate translation would be "place of prostration”.

The end quote is attributed to Mariyama Sanyang, Community Coordinator at Al Manaar, who took the time to speak with Shukri about the many wonderful things the centre offers the local community, as well as her personal connection to the space. You can learn more about her work through her Instagram: @callmemaryiama.

From its architectural form to its social function, Al Manaar offers a powerful lens into how buildings serve more than just physical needs — they shape and shelter the emotional and cultural lives of their communities.

Join us as we examine the mosque’s design, its role in public life, and what it reveals about the broader relationship between built space and belonging.

The Open City Podcast is supported by Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app and produced in association with the Architects’ Journal, London Society, C20 Society and Save Britain's Heritage.

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Deconstructed is recorded and produced at the Open City offices located in Bureau. Bureau is a co-working space for creatives offering a new approach to membership workspace. Bureau prioritises not just room to think and do, but also shared resources and space to collaborate.

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