HERITAGE ADVICE
2015 – 2022
Design 5 – Architects are proud to be appointed as heritage architects as a part of the large consultant team lead by ARM Architects and the Sydney Opera House.
Extracts from AIA jury citations:
“The design team’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the refurbishment, which has revitalised the concert hall while thoroughly respecting and enhancing the original design. Technical virtuosity, engineering innovation, and skilful integration of existing and new materials define the reimagined interior. The incorporation of sophisticated new systems for acoustics and lighting, simultaneously celebrate and enhance the heritage of the original space while reconciling its previous shortcomings.
Performing delicate surgery to a much-loved World-Heritage-listed building, this renewal project manages to not only meet, but transcend, all of the project challenges to achieve something truly special. The result is a renewed Concert Hall for the next generation, on par with the world’s great halls.
This is a rare example of a heritage intervention handled with such masterful technical skill, care, craft, creativity and deft precision as to make the interventions almost invisible – all achieved amidst the most complex of heritage, stakeholder and functional controls. Beyond respect and reverence for the original work, the architects have also managed to bring something special and ineffable to the table: a sense of joy, surprise and delight for visitors that resonates so well with the spirit of the original work, and brings the voices of Utzon and Hall into constructive dialog. Respecting the legacies of both Jørn Utzon and Peter Hall, the project demonstrates exceptional virtuosity, striking a delicate balance between preserving the iconic character of the original space, whilst subtly infusing it with contemporary elements. The reconfigured hall and stage now create an orchestral experience, described as both vibrant and intimate, with sound quality that resonates with the brilliance of a Stradivarius violin.
Completed in its 50th year, the Sydney Opera House concert hall refurbishment is a masterpiece – a symphony of design, innovation, and acoustic excellence. This is truly an achievement that deserves the highest recognition, and we applaud the entire project team for their remarkable performance.”
AWARDS
2023 AIA (National) Lachlan Macquarie Award for Heritage
2023 AIA (National) Emil Sodersten Award for Interior Architecture
2023 AIA (NSW) Architecture Medallion
