Sydney Open 2016

By Josh Ives

What’s the first thing you want to do when you get off the plane in NYC besides run to get a hotdog from a street vendor? That’s right, you go and get yourself to the Empire State Building and ride that sucker to the top for your first selfie of the day. The same goes with the Taj Mahal in India or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. There’s something awe-inspiring about great architecture that draws us in. Whether it’s the latest innovative design or a rustic old landmark from a time gone by, there’s no doubt that buildings tell a story.

So, if you’re an architecture enthusiast or just simply looking for something a little out-of-the-ordinary to fill a day with, I once again have your back. Don some comfortable attire and a decent pair of shoes, because you’re about to go explore our beautiful little city at the Sydney Open 2016.

From historic landmarks to the latest in modern interior vision, you’ll be handed the key to the city and be taken on a journey that has spanned 200 years of our finest man-made wonders. With over 50 buildings opening their doors, and unprecedented access with guided focus tours at each place, you won’t know where to look next! Whether it’s scaling a skyscraper or admiring the lobby, you’ll have the chance to wander through art spaces within the CBD, Barangaroo and all the way down to Walsh Bay and the Rocks.

What’s a personal article without a little bias? I happen to love trekking around our metropolitan jungle and will be sure to grab a ticket. Here’s where I would recommend prioritising during your adventure:

Two International Towers, Barangaroo

New is always better, right? Having only recently opened its doors, the towers still have that new building smell – although that may just be 100% fresh air ventilation boasted by this climate-friendly behemoth. Combining world-class sustainability with innovative design, Tower Two will be sure to drop jaws. Listen to the leading architect talk about how the Two Towers went from blueprint to green reality on the 42^nd floor and pay special attention to the amazing ‘vertical villages’ space design of the offices – these are a series of flexible and connected areas between levels that encourage a sense of community between floors. Howdy neighbour.

Reserve Bank of Australia

Located at 65, Martin Place; rock up to discover the big boss of banks and be pleasantly surprised at just how…cool it is. For you Potterheads, imagine the Gringotts of our city; the bank is more of a gallery, exuding a fantastic collection of modern art and sculpture. Designed by a renowned art-lover, Dr Coombs (or ‘nugget’ to his mates) had a little more in mind than a dusty old building with a few tellers and ATM’s. Be sure to check out the grandeur of the double-level lobby, supported by granite-faced columns and a ceiling of gold anodised aluminium that could give the Sistine Chapel a run.

Pier 2/3

For the culture vultures, get down to Pier 2/3 in Walsh Bay for a little history feast. Built in 1912 and completed in 1921, you can actually smell the history of this place. Once a major location for Sydney’s shipping and trade, this two-storey pier stands proudly heritage-listed as a testament to its industrial roots with untouched original designs preserved for all to admire. I mention this particular location as a must-see as 2016 may be the last year to witness the pier in all its original glory. Next year will see re-development underway to transform the skeletal design into an arts precinct for Australia’s leading performing arts companies.

Don’t miss out on this awesome weekend. It comes but once a year. Grab your tickets HERE, clear your camera’s memory for some happy snaps and get out there!