The Production of the Experience Through Ideology in Spaces of Worship

Spaces of worship are not merely physical structures for religious rituals; they also render the ideologies, values and worlds of meaning of particular belief systems spatially visible through symbolic elements, thereby producing diverse experiences. This study aims to examine how architectural configuration, symbolic language and atmospheric elements are conveyed in religious buildigs as ideological reflections and their potential effects on users experiences and behaviours. In this context, ideology is addressed as an element guiding individuals within particular religious thoughts and ideas, while worship spaces are considered reflections of these ideologies. The study reviews literature on worship spaces associated with different belief systems, focusing on symbolism, spatial configuration and effects on user experience. Accordingly, it examines how design components -such as colour, light, acoustics water elements, symbolic features, volumetric organisation and spatial arrangements- shape spatial experience in worship spaces and identifies shared concepts. Ultimately, sacred experience is understood to be shaped not only by rituals and practices but also by spatial configuration and sensory atmosphere. Accordingly, the study suggest that ideologies, understood as constellations of ideas and values associated with particular belief systems, can be conveyed in worship spaces through symbolism, spatial configuration and experience.