Sydney’s newest architectural landmark, the Pier Pavilion, has officially opened at Barangaroo, marking a major milestone in the precinct’s transformation and the NSW government’s commitment to accessible public spaces.
Designed by Besley & Spresser and selected from over 170 entries in a 2020 national competition, the Pavilion stands as a striking tribute to the harmony between land, sea, and sky, offering a unique space for the community to gather, relax, and enjoy everchanging views of Sydney Harbour.
The Pavilion’s design is both innovative and sustainable.
Rising over seven metres, its triangular form features curved sides, 85 structural steel columns, 17 unique trusses, and more than 20,000 fixing components.
At night, its lantern-like structure radiates light, creating a dramatic presence on the waterfront.
The Pavilion is clad in custom terrazzo, crafted from over 450,000 recycled Sydney rock oyster shells sourced from the East Coast, combined with Australian marble chip, sand, and cement-a nod to the site’s cultural and maritime heritage.
A 407-square-metre green roof, planted with nearly 2,500 native, drought-tolerant species, provides vital habitat for wildlife and features sandstone boulders, hollow logs, and a remotely monitored irrigation system.
A seven-metre-diameter oculus in the roof allows natural light to flood the space, enhancing the connection with the sky above. Inside, the ‘Cella’ houses a servery and storage for community events, while an 18-metre double-sided seating area invites visitors to take in the harbour’s breathtaking views.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said: “The Pier Pavilion is a remarkable addition to Barangaroo, and it showcases our commitment to creating vibrant, accessible public spaces where the community can come together.
“With the Metro completed, the Cutaway fitout at 50 per cent, and plans for Central Barangaroo and Harbour Park given the green light.
“We are starting to see the full vision of Barangaroo come to light.
“The Minns Labor government is focused on building better communities.
“This means ensuring we deliver the right balance between residential and commercial development, and public amenities and community infrastructure.”
The Pavilion was delivered by Stephen Edwards Constructions over 13 months, with women in trades contributing 7 per cent of total work hours-three times the industry average-highlighting the government’s commitment to workforce diversity.
Mathew Edwards, Managing Director of Stephen Edwards Constructions, said: “Being part of the Pier Pavilion project has been a privilege for Stephen Edwards Constructions from start to finish.
“This space truly reflects the fusion of thoughtful design, sustainability, and functionality, ensuring it will remain a cherished community asset for years to come.”
Sustainability is at the heart of the Pavilion, with almost half a million oyster shells recycled, over 92 per cent of construction waste diverted from landfill, and the use of cross-laminated timber for its durability and low carbon footprint.
Infrastructure NSW Head of Projects Bruno Zinghini described the Pavilion as “more than a landmark-it’s a celebration of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.”
“The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail demonstrates the dedication of everyone involved in bringing this iconic vision to life,” said Zinghini.
Architects Peter Besley and Jessica Spresser emphasised the Pavilion’s civic and environmental significance. Peter Besley said: “We gave the Pavilion a distinctly civic feel; all are welcome here. The Pavilion is intended to remain for a long time, and to figure in people’s memories of Sydney.
“We think the shells will be particularly memorable for children.”
Jessica Spresser added: “The Pavilion references human gathering by the sea through its use of recycled Sydney Rock Oyster shells.
“We wanted to pay respect to the long history of oyster feasting in the area, and to celebrate the use of a recycled material in the public realm.
“We began the design process by focusing on the natural elements that compose the site. Sydney Harbour is a unique and beautiful landscape, and the building is uniquely positioned to respond to it.
“This is achieved not just through materiality, but through its form, which opens like a book toward the mouth of the Harbour.
“It also contains a large oculus which is open to the sky, allowing light and the elements to enter.”
The Pier Pavilion is now open to the public at Watermans Cove, Barangaroo, set to host community events, performances, markets, and serve as a tranquil retreat for locals and visitors alike.
