The Cutaway at Barangaroo has reached completion following a major fitout that introduces purpose-built exhibition and events spaces into the cavernous shell beneath Barangaroo Reserve.
Originally designed by WMK Architecture, the Cutaway opened in 2015 as a raw cavern that was intermittently used for events and cultural activations. The fitout project seeks to resolve long-standing constraints of the space including acoustics, accessibility and limited performance amenities.
Delivered by Infrastructure NSW in partnership with FDC Construction and Fitout and architects, and designed by FJC Studio with Shannon Foster of Bangawarra and artist Jake Nash, the newly completed space has capacity to hold up to 3,000 people for events.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the new Cutaway space joins the Sydney Opera House “as one of the great cultural and event locations on the iconic shore of Sydney Harbour.”
“This extraordinary space is unlike anything else in Australia – deeply connected to Sydney, architecturally striking and built to host major events that draw visitors, investment and creative talent to our city,” said Minns.
The venue accommodates 10,000 square metres of cultural and events spaces, including two mezzanine levels. It features both event and back-of-house spaces, including a main event hall, a pre-function space, gallery and exhibition rooms, a ticketing office, a commercial kitchen, green rooms, dressing rooms and a multipurpose educational space.
Among the defining features of the project are 13 sculptural tree-like structures, each composed of up to 115 interlocking timber pieces. The pieces vary significantly in scale, weighing between seven and 950 kilograms, and forming structures that reach seven to 17 metres in height.
Formerly open voids within the space are now enclosed with a two-layer glazing system that improves acoustic performance while drawing in natural light. Accessibility has been prioritised throughout the venue, with lifts connecting the basement car park through the venue to the parkland above and step-free access from the Barangaroo Metro Station now provided.
A network of overhead rigging points can be found throughout the space to support lighting, sound equipment and suspended installations.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism and Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the Cutaway will be the beating heart of Barangaroo.
“This … indoor cultural venue shows what’s possible when we invest in great design, sustainability and culture, supporting local jobs and energising our night-time economy for years to come,” said Kamper.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
