ENVISIA, a low carbon concrete from Boral Concrete was selected by the architect for the impressive Punchbowl Mosque in south-west Sydney. ENVISIA was used extensively during the project including for the 102 ornamental vaulted dome shapes inside the mosque.
Architect Angelo Candalepas of Candalepas Associates selected ENVISIA for its light appearance and good off-form finish while the engineers were able to take advantage of its low shrinkage characteristics. ENVISIA’s finish also provided a stunning canvas for master calligraphers to hand-paint the 99 names of Allah in Arabic in gold on the domes.
The mosque’s minaret features a skylight at its peaked centre while each concrete dome contains tiny holes to elegantly allow shards of light to penetrate into the mosque during the day.
The Punchbowl Mosque is part of a precinct that also includes a community building, a two-level basement car park and courtyards. Construction started in 2015 and is ongoing.
The striking building has garnered much admiration in the construction space with recognitions including:
- Candalepas Associates: Sulman Medal for Public Architecture, Australian Institute of Architects NSW, July, 2018.
- Candalepas Associates: National Award for Public Architecture, Australian Institute of Architects, November, 2018.
- Wood & Grieve Engineers' NSW structural team: Finalists, Association of Consulting Structural Engineers NSW, 2017.
