The Cutaway reaches completion

What began in 2015 as a raw cavern beneath Barangaroo Reserve has been transformed into one of Sydney’s most distinctive new cultural venues. 

The Cutaway has officially reached completion, marking a major milestone for Infrastructure NSW and the many partners who have contributed to this once‑in‑a‑generation project. Carved into sandstone at the harbour’s edge, the venue now delivers a suite of stunning, purpose‑built event spaces capable of hosting everything from intimate exhibitions to large‑scale concerts, fashion shows and markets. 

The Space 

Spanning approximately 10,000sqm across 3 levels, the venue can scale up or down to suit different events, with spaces operating independently or together. New facilities include a main event hall, pre‑function space, gallery rooms and lobby, and a dedicated First Nations education space, all supported by comprehensive back‑of‑house amenities and full accessibility throughout. 

The Design 

Led by fjcstudio in collaboration with Shannon Foster of Bangawarra and artist Jake Nash, the bespoke architectural design is inspired by Country and cultural memory. Soft, cave‑like interiors, sculptural timber trees and expansive skylights work together to embed cultural storytelling directly into the fabric of the building. 

Sustainability 

Sustainability and universal access are central to the Cutaway’s operation, including all‑electric systems powered by renewable energy, natural seawater cooling and Australia’s first event space targeting a 6‑Star Green Star Buildings rating. 

The venue has now been handed over to Placemaking NSW, with a community event planned for May and event bookings opening from 1 August 2026.