Islam & First Impressions

Van invites Drew Marshall to explore the world of Islam through the lens of architecture as a living expression of belief, migration, conflict, humility, community behavior, and identity. Drew, an Islamic Studies expert and community advocate, guides us through the evolution of mosque design from Abraham and early Mecca to its global adaptations across the centuries. 

The conversation delves into the lived experience of entering a mosque, exploring transitional spaces, ritual washing (wudu), light, pattern, sound, and spatial choreography that prepare a person emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually. 

The episode then pivots into the “modern identity crisis” of Muslims in America. Drew speaks candidly about colonialism, wars in Muslim countries, the challenge of loving a land whose government harms your homeland, and the spiritual obligation to contribute positively anyway. He frames gratitude not as passivity, but as civic responsibility: promoting a better parking culture, cleaner roads, community contributions, and service as a form of worship.

The episode closes with a challenge: that contemporary Muslims, like all faith groups, must examine themselves through tradition without abandoning it — the concept of the mujaddid, someone who renews the faith for the times. Sacred design, in this frame, isn’t about buildings. It’s about behavior, belonging, and the everyday rituals that shape how a community is perceived and how it perceives itself.

We envision a world where design and religion work together to spread love, empathy, and charity faster than divisiveness, selfishness, and hate. To achieve this, we aim to bring the stories of those driving this change—both big and small—into the spotlight, allowing ideas for positive transformation to spread quickly and reach those who need them most.

Nate is the Head Pastor at Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church https://rccpc.org/

Van is a Service Designer and Illustrator, and his work can be found at https://www.vansheacreative.com/