In concept drawings, New York City Islamic center sports cosmopolitan look, secular focus
By David B. Caruso, APSaturday, October 2, 2010
On paper, NYC Islamic center looks modern, secular
NEW YORK — Sketches of the Islamic center planned two blocks from ground zero envision a futuristic-looking building with far more space for secular pursuits than religious worship.
Center developer Sharif El-Gamal tells The Associated Press the renderings are preliminary, but show the team’s desire to build something cosmopolitan and fun.
He predicted that once the facility is built, criticism will melt away.
The plans call for the largest part of the building to be taken up by a sports center.
The building’s main prayer space would be located on two levels in the basement.
As for the look of the place, it could fit in fine as an annex to Superman’s Fortress of Solitude, with white walls and floors and a crystalline feel.
Critics say it is offensive to build an Islamic institution so close to the World Trade Center site.
