The Ribbon, Darling Harbour NSW
The Ribbon is one of Sydney’s most recognisable new landmarks. Located in Darling Harbour, the $1 billion, 30-storey mixed-use development was designed by Hassell and opened in late 2023. Its distinctive curved glass façade winds around dual elevated roadways, creating a striking architectural statement while housing the world’s largest W Sydney hotel and the new IMAX Sydney.
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The challenge
The Ribbon’s iconic design presented several unique access challenges.
The building's curved glass façades, recessed architectural features and internal atriums created areas that were difficult to reach using conventional rope access methods. Maintenance teams required safe and efficient access to both external and internal glazed surfaces while preserving the building’s architectural intent.
Several areas also demanded work positioning solutions capable of navigating the façade’s complex contours, while maintaining compliance with Australian Standards and ensuring user safety.
The Ribbon, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW
Our solution
Working alongside Karabiner Access and the project team, Kattsafe’s engineering team developed a tailored rope access solution designed specifically for the building’s unique geometry.
The solution included custom-engineered extendable Rope Access Needles were designed to provide safe access to the internal atrium areas. The extendable design allows ropes to be positioned clear of building edges and architectural features, helping technicians reach difficult maintenance zones safely and efficiently.
Kattsafe supplied Rigid Rail systems beneath the glass ceilings and skylights, as well as within sections of the building’s distinctive curved façade. The rigid rail provides continuous attachment for rope access technicians while delivering reliable and controlled access across complex maintenance areas.
A network of Purlin Mount Anchors was installed to provide lateral restraint for rope access operations along the building’s curved elevations. This allows technicians to maintain safe positioning while descending the façade, reducing swing hazards and improving access control.
Key benefits
Safe and compliant rope access solutions for a highly complex architectural structure.
Purpose-designed systems tailored to the building's curved façade and internal atriums.
Improved access to glazing, façades and skylight areas for ongoing maintenance and cleaning.
Continuous user connection through strategically positioned rigid rail systems.
Enhanced rope management and technician positioning with lateral restraint anchor systems.
Long-term durability and reliability suited to the ongoing operational requirements of a landmark Sydney development.
The Ribbon demonstrates how thoughtful engineering and customised access solutions can overcome even the most challenging architectural designs. By combining bespoke Rope Access Needles, Rigid Rail systems and Purlin Mount Anchors, Kattsafe helped deliver safe, practical access for the ongoing maintenance of one of Australia’s most distinctive buildings.
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Photo credit: Abseilers Crew
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