Cambridge Mosque wins the British Stirling Prize 2021
The Abu Bakr Mosque in Cambridge, designed by Marks Barfield Architects, was awarded the prestigious British Stirling Prize on 14 October 2021. The Free Form team at Blumer Lehmann is responsible for planning and implementing the complex timber structure for Europe’s first eco-friendly mosque.
Sustainability and climate protection were key considerations in Marks Barfield Architects’ design for the Abu Bakr Mosque in Cambridge and represent for them the understanding, deeply rooted in the Islamic religion, of human beings as the guardians of creation. A focus on nature also influenced other aspects of the structural concept, such as its eco-friendly timber construction. The architecture and materials, which are European in every respect, combine with the use of Islamic design forms to create one harmonious whole. English regional building techniques fuse with Islamic traditions to form a compelling prototype of a modern British mosque.
This coexistence of two worlds culminates in a roof structure composed of Free Form tree-like supports and a vault opening up above. Together, they create a breathtaking atmosphere of shelter and security for the approximately 1,000 worshippers. The tree-like supports and geometric space structure were made by Blumer Lehmann from multi-curved laminated spruce beams in keeping with the concept of an eco-friendly mosque. The hall is crowned by a gilded dome, visible from afar, which was pre-assembled by Blumer Lehmann and lifted onto the ceiling structure by crane.
Our Free Form specialists advised and supported the architects during the development phase before we were awarded the contract for timber construction planning, production and assembly of the entire Cambridge Mosque following an invitation to tender.
Stirling Prize
The Stirling Prize is named after the British architect James Stirling and is awarded by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The RIBA Stirling Prize has been awarded annually since 1996 to the architects whose building has made the ‘greatest contribution to British architecture in the previous year’. The Cambridge Central Mosque has already won a number of awards, including the RIBA East Project Architect of the Year Award, RIBA National Award, Wood Award, Structural Timber Award and Civic Trust Award.
