Impact of Lighting Design on Visual Comfort: A User-Centered Study of Al Irsyad Mosque

Abstract

Masjid Al Irsyad, located in Kota Baru Parahyangan, is a prominent example of contemporary architecture that emphasizes formal simplicity and the optimization of both natural and artificial lighting as key elements in shaping the comfort of worship spaces. Lighting in mosque architecture plays not only a functional role but also contributes to the spiritual and aesthetic atmosphere that supports solemnity in worship. This study aims to analyze visual comfort based on user perceptions of natural and artificial lighting conditions in Masjid Al Irsyad. The research applies a qualitative-descriptive approach, with data collected through non-instrumental visual observation, photographic documentation, and a questionnaire distributed to 30 respondents who were users or visitors of the mosque. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods based on the Likert scale and classified into comfort categories using an interval percentage method that has been tested in previous research. To strengthen the validity of the results, additional statistical analyses were conducted using ANOVA and multivariate correlation tests. The results show that natural lighting achieved comfort scores of 76.6% for lighting arrangement, 70.6% for spatial layout, and 77.5% for spatial impression. Artificial lighting received scores of 80.8% for lighting arrangement, 74.8% for spatial layout, and 67.7% for spatial impression. Overall, the lighting in Masjid Al Irsyad was categorized as "Comfortable" based on user perception, except for the spatial impression of artificial lighting, which fell into the "Moderately Comfortable" category. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between visit frequency and perceived visual comfort, along with strong correlations between visual comfort and factors such as ambient temperature, sense of spiritual focus, aesthetic perception, and lighting clarity. This study highlights the importance of lighting as a critical design element that significantly influences visual comfort and spatial experience for users in mosque architecture.