Parramatta’s iconic community and civic hub PHIVE has welcomed one million visitors over a 12-month period for the first time and more than 2.14 million visitors since opening in September 2022.
The $136 million building has become a hive of activity, with the community embracing its library, discovery space, wellness and maker spaces. It’s drawn crowds with special events like Sea of Light, Space Play, Creature on top of weekly favourites like children’s story time, yoga, Zumba, Tai Chi, and a variety of creative arts, cultural workshops and STEM classes.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said Council’s vision for this bold project in the heart of Parramatta Square is now a reality.
“PHIVE’s popularity continues to grow and has been embraced by our community who love the wide array of events, programs and services,” Cr Zaiter said.
“Bringing one million visitors in one year is no small feat – Council has worked hard to ensure the facility is welcoming, a great place to study or work, and provides programming that is affordable, fun and unique, making our community and visitors want to come back again and again.
Cr Zaiter said PHIVE set the standard for the design and function of PAC and provided inspiration for the bold design of the future Riverside Theatres.
“Global cities are always at the forefront of innovation and Parramatta’s PHIVE really showcases what can be achieved for the community when we aim high.
“Parramatta Square has become the go-to destination for locals and tourists with PHIVE and Parramatta Town Hall only a stone’s throw away from the new Powerhouse Parramatta and the reimagined Riverside Theatres.”
PHIVE has won and been commended in numerous awards domestically and internationally at least 18 times.
This includes winning the 2024 Best Designed Buildings and Landscapes Civic Centre award at the International Architecture Awards, receiving a 6-star, green star rating accreditation and being shortlisted for Public Library of the Year at the 2023 International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).
