The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced Luca Poian Forms as the winner of the international RIBA Competition to design a new mosque in Preston.

According to RIBA, "the client was looking for a truly inspirational design to create a timeless landmark building on a site near to Preston city centre and visible from the surrounding area." 

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The final design with the minaret tower is a reference to Lancashire's well-recognised cotton mill chimneys, paying tribute to its local history.

Luca Poian talked about his design proposal and winning the competition:

"By virtue of its scale, form, and materiality, the mosque will be executed as a highly refined building that celebrates Islamic tradition whilst also paying homage to British craft. Working on projects that will have a profound community impact is at the core of our ethos, as well as delivering uniquely iconic architecture that will stand the test of time. 

This competition was a truly unique opportunity to achieve both goals hand-in-hand, and we're looking forward to fostering a close relationship with our Client as well as with other key community stakeholders to ensure the project is delivered to the highest standard. We are thankful for the opportunity, and we look forward to carrying this project to fruition."

RIBA recently shortlisted Cambridge Central Mosque as one of six buildings for the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stirling Prize 2021, the UK's most prestigious architecture award, given to the UK's best new building.