The Exchange is wrapped in mesmerizing wooden spirals

Ribbons of wood wrap around Kengo Kuma’s community center The Exchange , which opened in Darling Square, Sydney, Australia this year. At six stories high and with a striking spiral shape, the building is the Japanese architect’s first in the country. The building is wrapped in 20,000 meters of light-colored wood, offering passersby glimpses of the activity inside from any angle. “Our goal is to achieve an architecture that is as open and tangible as possible to the community, and that reflected in the circular geometry that creates a building that is accessible and recognizable from many directions,” said Kuma.

Darling Square is a neighbourhood located on the western fringes of Sydney's central business district on Darling Harbour. "The timber screen wraps the exterior of the building in a dynamic and exciting way, a historical reference to Darling Harbour originally being a hive of commercial and a focal point as a market exchange." Inside the building, there is a library, a daycare, a market and a makerspace to support startups and technology. There is also a rooftop bar and restaurant with views of Tumbalong Park, the Chinese Gardens and Cockle Bay. Darling Square and The Exchange are being developed by property developer and contractor Lendlease as part of the regeneration of Darling Harbour. The development has been overseen by architecture studios OMA, Hassell and Populous. The redevelopment will provide housing for 4,200 people and is expected to create 2,500 jobs, as well as attract more visitors and activities to the area.