Transformation of Cutaway at Barangaroo reaches halfway mark

The transformation of the Cutaway - a cavernous space that sits below the eastern end of Barangaroo Reserve on Sydney’s waterfront - into a premier cultural destination has reached the halfway mark.

The space is being transformed from a concrete shell, exposed to the elements, into one of the city’s premier cultural facilities and outstanding venues.

The final design for the transformation by FJC Studio was selected due to its relationship to traditional custodians and the surrounding environment with the construction contract for the redevelopment being awarded to FDC Construction - an Australian owned leading building delivery partner with over 34 years of experience.

Project Director FDC Construction & Fitout Emma Thomy shared “we’re making excellent progress, with half of the fitout now complete, including the internal mezzanine structure, feature cladding underway to the entrance, skylight install nearing completion and fitout works now commencing. The Cutaway is a once in a lifetime project, a masterclass of innovative and sustainable construction set to become a significant cultural landmark for our city.”

With the metro open, and Central Barangaroo given the green light, the new and improved Cutaway is set to be the beating heart of the Barangaroo precinct, providing an iconic space capable of hosting a diverse range of events

The Cutaway first opened in 2015 as a raw concrete shell with the new design addressing key needs and improve functionality, including an enclosed space, enhanced acoustic capabilities, flexible event spaces and new amenities.

The ambitious project is reshaping the space into an outstanding venue for events, exhibitions, festivals and installations.

Aligned with Barangaroo’s sustainability principles, the project has achieved several remarkable environmental milestones including diverting over 90% of construction waste from landfill, and reduction of carbon emissions by more than 50% as compared with standard benchmarks.

Construction is expected to be completed in late 2025, with event programming to commence in 2026.

The Cutaway’s transformation will strengthen Barangaroo’s reputation as a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

For more information, visit: NSW Government | The Cutaway