Design for Parramatta Riverside Theatres on exhibition

The $188 million proposal for the redevelopment of Parramatta's Riverside Theatres is currently on exhibition on the NSW government's state significant applications portal, with the public invited to have their say on the designs.

Cox, 3XN Architects, Aileen Sage, Turf Design Studio and Bangawarra won a design excellence competition for the project in May 2024. According to the City of Parramatta, the design team "have created a visionary design that blends contemporary architecture with First Nations inspired interiors."

Envisioned as the centrepiece of Parramatta's emerging cultural precinct, the proposed revitalisation of the city's Riverside Theatres aims to transform the venue into an internationally renowned cultural destination. The council noted that their aspiration for the project is to generate a "vibrant hub for creativity in the heart of Parramatta" that attracts visitors and creates opportunities for local businesses.

The revitalised building will feature a collection of performance spaces, including a new 1,500-seat Broadway-style Lyric Theatre replacing the building's existing Lennox and Raffertys Theatres, a refurbished 760-seat Playhouse Theatre, a 341-seat Black Box Drama Theatre and a 116-seat Studio Cinema. A new bar and cafe is also situated on the river side of the proposed building.

In their architectural report, the design team noted that together with the retained Playhouse Theatre, the new program establishes a cluster of four separate volumes. Clad in glass-reinforced concrete rainscreens, the proposed envelope is intended to link these distinct parts into a unified whole while echoing the dappled light of tree canopies. On the ground floor, an undulating soffit is envisioned to create a soft expression that lends itself to a more human scale.

The council noted that the "proposed design respects Parramatta's rich cultural heritage, thoughtfully integrating contemporary architecture with elements that honour the area's historical significance, creating a harmonious blend of past and present."

With respect to both new and old parts of the building, council claim that the design is "industry-leading" in accessibility, "ensuring a dynamic and inclusive experience for audiences, artists and the wider community."

Around the venue, various civic works are aimed at transforming the Parramatta riverfront into a connected and inspiring public place. A new pedestrian- and cycle-friendly path linking several bridge underpasses are intended to provide better access to the river, while a new circular gathering space aspires to provide a landscaped setting for impromptu performances, individual reflection and group gatherings.

The public is invited to have their say on the proposal until 28 April. Following public comment, the project is set to commence construction in late 2025 and open to the community in 2028.