The new Sydney Fish Market, designed by 3XN Architects with BVN Architecture and ASPECT Studios, has seen the final roof panel installed on top of the 200-metre-long floating roof canopy, forming the iconic building’s crowning glory. The completion of this roof marks a pivotal moment in the project, as the focus shifts from structural work to internal finishes, bringing the building one step closer to construction completion.

“The revamped market will be truly spectacular, offering a world-class, authentic seafood for an expected six million annual local and international visitors – ensuring it remains one of the most popular tourist destinations on offer in our harbour city,” says NSW Premier Chris Minns.

“This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our construction team and partners,” says NSW Regional Director Daniel Murphy at Multiplex. “We can’t wait to see visitors enjoying this impressive building when it opens to the public.”

The roof’s supporting structure is comprised of 594 timber roof beams – with the longest beams up to 32 metres in length – and was completed in December 2024. Combined with over 400 roof panels, the roof weighs a staggering 2,500 tonnes and will undergo finishing touches including waterproofing in the weeks ahead.

Related: Insight into the design with 3XN’s Fred Holt

“Today marks a significant milestone with the completion of the roof at the new Sydney Fish Market, a testament to world-class engineering and design,” says Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper. “The roof not only enhances the market’s aesthetic with its magnificent wave-like form now in place, but also the environmental sustainability of the building.”

Since construction began, delivery partner Multiplex has awarded more than $670 million in contracts to Australian suppliers for services including maritime piling, steel reinforcement and installation of the roof cassettes. The new Sydney Fish Market is set to offer a vibrant mix of retail, dining and community spaces, including fresh seafood market, restaurants and a seafood school. The new market will create a dynamic hub for both locals and tourists, celebrating Sydney’s reputation as a global seafood destination.

The new Sydney Fish Market is key to the transformation of Blackwattle Bay, which will unlock a connected waterfront promenade from Rozelle Bay to Woolloomooloo, 1,100 homes on the old fish market site and more than 6,000 square metres of public space, improving pedestrian and cycling links.

3XN
3xn.com

BVN Architecture
bvn.com.au

ASPECT Studios
aspect-studios.com.au

Images
Multiplex, Infrastructure NSW

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