A high-profile project in the CBD
Located within Sydney’s iconic Harry Seidler-designed building, the 9 Castlereagh Street project highlights what’s possible when architectural ambition meets technical precision. Designed as a premium retail frontage, the brief called for a seamless curved display window, full-height glazing and integrated lighting – all within a tight, highly visible site.
Design intent that meets engineering reality
From day one, this wasn’t a typical install.
The O’Brien Glass Building & Fitout team was tasked with delivering an elegant, transparent facade that concealed its complexity behind clean sightlines and flawless finishes. This required:
· Installing large curved laminated glass to exact tolerances
· Engineering custom framing to hide fixings and manage thermal movement
· Integrating lighting within millimetres of glazing and structure
· Ensuring every seal, junction and reflection met strict visual expectations
Collaboration at every stage
With so many disciplines interacting, collaboration was essential. O’Brien worked closely with architects, builders and specialist trades throughout the 18-month program. Early modelling, mock-ups and iterative design reviews ensured the project stayed aligned to the architectural vision.
Quality through process
Precision was upheld through strict QA measures – from factory inspections to CNC-manufactured framing and controlled site jigs during installation – with prefabrication playing a significant role in reducing site variables and protecting quality in a busy CBD environment.
While the engineering was complex, the true success of this project lies in the skill and dedication of our glaziers and expert team; steady hands, problem-solving instinct and the kind of craftsmanship that only comes from years of experience. Their expertise has created an iconic, customer-ready frontage that enhances the experience for everyone who enters the space.
The result?
The completed facade is a striking blend of form and function: a curved-glass installation that delivers strong street presence, architectural clarity and long-term performance. It reflects the ability the O’Brien Glass Building & Fitout team have to deliver complex, bespoke commercial glazing solutions – far beyond routine replacement work.
Inspired by what’s possible? Talk to the O’Brien Glass Building & Fitout team about how we can support your next project.
