Project Description

In 2020, Infrastructure NSW conducted an open competition for a new pavilion located on the waterfront at Barangaroo, Sydney. This unbuilt project was one of 173 entrants in the competition.

Our scheme sought to create a shimmering canopy suspended over the site, reflecting the surroundings and activity below. This was achieved with reflective panels hanging beneath a glass and timber roof structure. We looked at this canopy as being like the scales of a fish, flashing light and movement, or the sun reflecting off the sea. In this way we tried to key the building into its location and its history as an indigenous fishing ground.

In a civic sense, the reflective nature of the canopy was a positive - reflections would give the building a sense of movement, visible to the city's citizens and tourists as they pass along the pathways of the Wulugul Walk that surround the pavilion. It would also reflect the activity that takes place beneath it, doubling the sense of busyness in the space and providing artistic opportunities for those exhibiting sculpture or performing there.

We sought to produce a design that is not only engaging but also respectful - respectful of site, history, environment and context.