A preview of the future of Sydney Jewish Museum
An architectural marvel is taking shape in Darlinghurst, as the Sydney Jewish Museum undergoes a monumental transformation.
For a few weeks in September, the public has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to don hard hats and step onto the active construction site, a rare glimpse into the future of this vital institution.
The demolition work alone has been a massive undertaking, with more than 550 tonnes of steel, concrete, and brick already cleared. From within the cavernous, newly created void, visitors will see the framework for a spectacular, three-level spiral staircase that will become the visual centrepiece of the new Centre for Contemporary Jewish Life. The staircase is not just a stunning design feature; its glass construction is specifically designed to flood the space with natural light, a potent symbol of clarity and hope.
Sydney Jewish Museum staff take a peek behind the scenes of the building work in progress (supplied)
The project, which is central to the museum’s 2025 Capital Appeal, will double the museum’s footprint and is expected to be completed in early 2027. It’s an ambitious vision that aims to increase the museum’s capacity to welcome more than 100,000 visitors annually. The transformed building will house contemporary, technology-enabled galleries and education spaces, ensuring the museum’s mission of celebrating Jewish life, history, and culture continues for generations to come. This includes delivering vital Holocaust education and powerful messages of tolerance to a wider audience than ever before.
The significance of the project hasn’t been lost on community leaders. Greg Shand, the museum’s president, and CEO Kevin Sumption recently hosted a behind-the-scenes tour for leaders from the Central Synagogue and the Great Synagogue, as well as museum staff. David Lewis, President of The Great Synagogue, described the tour as a “milestone moment”. He praised the project’s “extraordinary” scale and ambition, noting that even in its early stages, it’s clear the new Sydney Jewish Museum will be a “world-class institution” that honours history while inspiring future generations.
The museum’s capital appeal events, running from September 7 to 15, offer more than just a peek at the construction. Guests will experience a special exhibition, engage in interactive encounters with AI-powered digital Holocaust survivors, and hear powerful, short talks from young community advocates. It’s an immersive experience designed to showcase the past and future of the museum and the broader community it serves.
For details about attending a tour or upcoming appeal events, visit: capitalappeal.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au/events.
