Buildings and architecture of Sydney

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St. James Church today, with the Sydney skyline in the background

Internationally, the Sydney Opera House is the most recognised symbol of Sydney and one of the most represtenitive pieces of Sydney architecture

Sydney’s skyline is not characterised by any particular architectural style, having accumulated its buildings over a period of time.

1 Early Architecture
2 Skyscrapers in Sydney
3 See also
4 References

[edit] Early Architecture

Many prominent architects are responsible for a large number of iconic Sydney structures, such as the colonial architect Francis Greenway. Between 1816 and 1818, whilst still a convict, Greenway was responsible for the design and construction of the Macquarie Lighthouse on the South Head at the entrance to Sydney Harbour. His works also include the Hyde Park Barracks, St. James Church and the new Government building. Opened in 1973, the Sydney Opera House was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon^[1]. Prominently located on Bennelong Point^[2], the building has been proposed for world heritage listing^[3].

[edit] Skyscrapers in Sydney

Height restrictions were lifted in the 1950s and the AMP Building at Circular Quay became Australia's tallest building several years later. The late 1980s and early to mid 1990s resulted in a skyscraper boom in Sydney, but height restrictions limited future buildings to the height of 235 metres, in part due to the close proximity of Sydney Airport. Harry Seidler was one of the main proponents of Modernism in Australia. His Rose Seidler House was a revelation to conservative 1950s Sydney, however it was his skyscrapers, particularly in Sydney, for which he received most attention. The largest structure is Centrepoint Tower standing at 309 metres, and containing restaurants and observation decks. Although both the MLC Centre and World Tower are higher measured to roof at 228 m and 230 m respectively, the tallest conventional skyscraper measured to its spire tip is Chifley Tower, completed 1992. With 134 skyscrapers over 90m, Sydney has the largest skyline in Australia. ^[4]