A new iconic landmark has opened in Barangaroo.
Barangaroo has officially welcomed a striking new civic landmark with the opening of the Pier Pavilion on 30 April 2025. Set on the edge of Watermans Cove, the pavilion is already drawing attention for its visionary design, sustainable materials, and inclusive ethos.
A Civic Space for All
Commissioned by Infrastructure NSW and funded through developer contributions, the Pier Pavilion was designed as a space for people to gather, reflect, and celebrate. Whether attending a cultural event or taking a quiet moment to enjoy the harbour, the Pavilion provides a calm and welcoming retreat within the city.
As Peter Besley, Director at Besley and Spresser, put it: “We gave the pavilion a distinctly civic feel; all are welcome here.”
The pavilion contributes to Barangaroo’s ongoing harbourside regeneration along Sydney’s western waterfront and reinforces its identity as a destination built for people.
Design Inspired by Land, Sea and Sky
The design by architects Besley and Spresser, selected from over 170 submissions in a 2020 national design competition, captures the geometries of Sydney Harbour through a lantern-like triangular form supported by 85 freestanding columns.
A standout element is the use of a custom oyster terrazzo cladding – a world-first application of more than 450,000 recycled Sydney rock oyster shells mixed with Australian marble chip, sand, and cement. The terrazzo pays homage to the ancient practice of oyster feasting on Sydney’s shores and expresses deep connection to place.
Director Jessica Spresser explained: “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.”
A Living Roof that Breathes with Nature
The 407-square metre landscaped roof mimics nearby headlands with 2,500 native and drought-tolerant plants, sandstone boulders, and hollow logs that serve as microhabitats for local insects and birds. A 7-metre-wide oculus in the roof allows weather and natural light to permeate the space below, blending indoor and outdoor experiences.
The entire roof deck is made from Cross-Laminated Timber, selected for its durability, low carbon footprint, and potential for disassembly.
Thoughtful Construction and Sustainability
Built over 13 months by Stephen Edwards Constructions, the Pavilion sets new benchmarks in construction sustainability and diversity:
- 92% of construction waste was recycled
- Over 450,000 oyster shells were repurposed, saving them from landfill
- Women in trades contributed 7% of total work hours – more than three times the industry average
Mathew Edwards, Managing Director at Stephen Edwards Constructions, said: “This space truly reflects the fusion of thoughtful design, sustainability, and functionality, ensuring it will remain a cherished community asset for years to come.”
Flexible Facilities and Community Value
Beneath the pavilion’s canopy lies a smaller internal structure known as the ‘Cella’, which houses a servery, storage and technical space to support public events. The site also features an 18-metre double-sided bench for seating and relaxation, inviting visitors to enjoy the expansive views of Sydney Harbour.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper described the project as a benchmark in civic architecture: “The Pier Pavilion is a shining example of how we can blend cutting-edge design with public accessibility and sustainability.”
Bruno Zinghini, Head of Projects at Infrastructure NSW, echoed this sentiment: “The Pier Pavilion is more than a landmark—it’s a celebration of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.”
A Lasting Legacy
With its elevated design, inclusive purpose, and environmental sensitivity, the Pier Pavilion is a memorable new chapter in Sydney’s architectural story. Whether seen glowing at night from the water or experienced up close, this Pavilion is designed to leave a lasting impression – especially for the younger generation.
“We think the shells will be particularly memorable for children,” added architect Peter Besley.
Barangaroo’s Pier Pavilion now stands as a beacon for thoughtful urban design, cultural connection, and community engagement – inviting all to share in its spirit.