Architecture

Of all the Australian cities, Sydney has, by far, one of the world’s most easily identifiable skylines. Its many different styles give it a uniquely distinctive look, from Harbour Bridge and the Opera House at Darling Harbour to The Rocks, and North Sydney. If you are in the city and a fan of architecture then here are just a few of the most spectacular buildings and sights you just shouldn’t miss.

Sydney Harbour is said to be one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see, and they are not wrong. Reaching over an area of 240 km of shoreline it features large areas of parklands, reserves and gardens and the harbor on a sunny day is a dazzling blue sprinkled with colourful sailing boats, cruise boats and ferries.

At the harbor you’ll find Sydney Opera House, as famous as the Empire State Building and The Leaning Tower of Pisa, and, even though not yet 40 years old, the most famous symbol of Australia. Extending out into the harbour with its uniquely shaped ship sails roof it was designed by the Danish architect Jorn Utzon, and its contrast with Harbour Bridge is a stunningly beautiful sight to see. The Opera House was included in the National Heritage List in 2005, and inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2007.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge was proposed as far back as 1815 to make access between the northern and southern shore easier, although it wasn’t actually built until 1932. Designed by Sir Ralph Freeman it is another of Australia’s most recognized landmarks and the world’s largest steel arch bridge, reaching 134m above the harbor at its highest point. Called affectionately by the locals as the ‘Coathanger’, when it was first constructed the two eastern lanes were tram tracks, since then they have been converted into eight traffic lanes and two rail lines. The view from the bridge is breathtaking and BridgeClimb was started in 1998 where anyone who wants can join in climbing the monument, by day, twilight or night.

Sydney has over 130 skyscrapers, including Sydney Tower, The MLC Centre, Deutsche Bank Place, Chifley Tower, Aurora Place, Governor Phillip Tower and the AMP Centre. Sydney Tower is the tallest structure standing at 309m with one of the highest observation towers in the Southern Hemisphere. The tower sits upon Centrepoint, an office and shopping centre development, and, a major tourist attraction in the city, it can be seen from a number of vantage points throughout town and neighboring suburbs.

The MLC Centre reaches a height of 228m and has 67 floors. Way ahead of its time in its design, it was the first building in the Sydney CBD to provide a large open space in the centre of the city for the entertainment of tenants, shoppers and visitors. Harry Seidler was responsible for its design, along with some other Australian well-known buildings.

St Mary’s Cathedral is located in the heart of the city and represents the spiritual origins of the Catholic Church in Australia. Artists have donated wonderful gifts in stone and glass since it was first built and what has evolved is a unique place to find solace and prayer within the city. One of Sydney’s most treasured historic buildings it’s constructed in local sandstone and is a fine example of the gothic-style evocative of the great medieval cathedrals of Europe.

Designed by the 19th century architect, William Wilkinson Wardell, it was completed 100 years after he died and is the largest church in Australia. Its location on College Street means it is surrounded by the high rise development of the CBD, however its impressive structure and twin spires ensure it is a landmark that can be seen from every direction.

Sydney arranges various walks for the general public that takes in some of the cities most contemporary buildings. These architecture walks are a mix of architectural styles and designs and often follow a certain theme – they are a great way to see the city from a different perspective and are an enjoyable event whatever your interest.

Every year there’s an Architecture Festival which celebrates the city’s buildings and attempts to get the public interested in, and appreciate, their local environment. It features architectural tours of the city, activities at the World Heritage listed Sydney Opera House, talks, exhibitions and children’s activities; and attracts around 6,000 people from all walks of life.

Check out Sydney hotels online and experience the city’s natural beauty and magnificent harbour area. Stay at a hotel close by and you’ll be within walking distance of worldwide known Australian icons including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanical Gardens.