The new fish market, which is twice the size of the existing site and as big as three Queen Victoria Buildings side-by-side, is the largest fish market in the southern hemisphere.
It was designed by Danish architects 3XN GXN in association with BVN Architecture and landscape architects ASPECT Studios, with space for retail, tourism, and wholesale operations all under one roof. It is surrounded by 6000 square metres of outdoor space and seating overlooking the harbour in three directions.
Fishmongers at the new Sydney Fish Markets on the first day of trading. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer
From behind glass walls, visitors will get a behind-the-scenes insight into Dutch-style auctions where bidding always starts at the highest offer.
“We have turned an introverted industry inside out, putting the back-of-house operations on display and making the theatrics and intense choreography of seafood trading and movement part of the public experience,” 3XN partner and Australia director Fred Holt said.
The publicly accessible market hall level accommodates 12,200 square metres of fishmongers, restaurants, cafés and specialty vendors, creating the atmosphere of a lively, intimate marketplace.
“The project’s location demanded a structure capable of managing salt water and air, humidity, cold-chain logistics and heavy machinery – all while welcoming millions of visitors a year. Achieving that balance of opposing pressures shaped every decision that was made,” Catherine Skinner, principal at BVN said.
Read the full article here
