A building to inspire
A series of shells, the billow of sails, the crests of foaming waves – the Sydney Opera House’s silhouette is globally recognised. Together with the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it’s a sight that defines Sydney.
The vision of a genius
Jan Utzon’s design was not well-developed when it was picked as the basis for the new Sydney Opera House. But with its dramatic, peeling shell segments, it was the standout concept. It captured the judging panel’s imagination, trumping more conventional designs.
Engineers, architects and builders had to solve many challenges to make Utzon's design a reality. The roof alone took 5 years to perfect. Segments constructed in precast concrete and assembled onsite with specially designed cranes. In total, construction took 14 years!
Dive deep into the history of the Sydney Opera House with our City of Sydney Archives. Explore our Sydney Opera House collection or learn more about some of the other proposed sites.
Location, location, location
It’s hard to imagine the harbour foreshore without the Sydney Opera House. But Bennelong Point / Dubbagullee was not always the preferred site. More than 30 locations were considered, including converting the Queen Victoria Building. Other possible locations were opposite Hyde Park, The Domain between the Art Gallery of NSW and St Mary’s Cathedral. Even the Royal Agricultural Grounds at Moore Park were an option.
A very crowded house
Some of Sydney’s most memorable social and cultural moments have played out on the steps and forecourt of the Sydney Opera House. The ‘house for the people of Sydney’ has seen concerts , art installations, protests, Olympic events and millions of selfies. In 1997, tens of thousands of people came to see Crowded House play, free.
A canvas
The sails of the Sydney Opera House are a canvas on which both human and natural light play. Projection on the sails during Vivid Sydney delights millions of people every year. But the way the 1,056,006 tiles reflect the changing light throughout the seasons is arguably much more beautiful.
Discover Sydney Opera House events, tours, performances and more at What's On.
Published 20 October 2023, updated 6 February 2024