Barangaroo Pier Pavillion

Barangaroo Pier Pavilion is Sydney’s newest waterfront landmark — a sculptural civic space that blends sustainability, cultural storytelling, and architectural elegance. Designed by Jessica Spresser and Peter Besley, the pavilion was selected from over 170 entries in a 2020 national design competition. Opened in April 2025, it now anchors Watermans Cove as a gathering place for community events, reflection, and connection to Country.

What sets this project apart is its material innovation and symbolic form. The pavilion’s façade is clad in custom oyster shell terrazzo, crafted from over 450,000 recycled Sydney rock oyster shells — a nod to the area’s long history of shoreline gatherings and feasting. Its triangular plan echoes the geometry of nearby coves, while 85 slender columns support a 7-metre-high canopy punctuated by a circular oculus that frames the sky. Above, a 407-square-metre landscaped roof garden — planted with nearly 2,500 native species — creates microhabitats for birds and insects, reinforcing the pavilion’s role as a living, breathing part of the harbour’s ecology.  This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can honour place, history, and sustainability — all while creating a timeless public space for generations to enjoy.

Group DLA were engaged to provide Building Code of Australia (BCA) and DDA Access (DDA) consultancy throughout the design development phases of the project, including  certification on behalf of the Crown throughout the multi-staged program. Our involvement also included assessment of extensive Fire Engineering, Energy Efficiency and DDA Accessibility Performance Solutions.