As someone who is passionate about architecture and property development, I am always drawn to Melbourne for its diverse and beautiful buildings. From the bustling streets of the city centre to the quiet residential areas, there is a sense of history and character in every corner of this vibrant city.
I enjoy being involved in the building process and am excited by construction. I’m an avid fan of stunning architecture. I’ve travelled much of the world, to large and small cities, and am intrigued and fascinated by the diversity and beauty of different buildings and their styles. The way they interact and adds to their surroundings, the way they shape the feel of a setting, and the way they influence how individuals interact with them.
Shrine of Remembrance
As long as I can remember, the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne has been a must-see on my list of buildings to visit. It’s not just a building, though; it has a special significance as a memorial to the Australian men and women who have served their country in times of war and peace. The Shrine was first opened in 1934, and underwent a major renovation in 2014. It’s a fascinating mix of architectural styles, blending references to ancient Egyptian pyramids and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in Turkey. From the balcony of the Shrine, you can look out over the Shrine Reserve, which is a beautiful and peaceful place to reflect.
St Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is a beautiful and historic building located in Melbourne, Australia. It is a notable example of the neo-Gothic architectural style and was designed by the renowned English architect William Butterfield.
The Cathedral is built in the shape of a traditional Latin cross, with a long nave, side aisles, short transepts, and a tower at the crossing.
The interior stonework is a mixture of different materials, including sandstone and limestone, which give the building a warm and inviting appearance.
The spires are made of Sydney sandstone and are a slightly different colour than the rest of the building due to their younger age.
Many people find a sense of peace and calm when visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral, making it a popular destination for those seeking a moment of solitude and reflection.
State Library of Victoria
The Domed Reading Room sounds like a beautiful and peaceful place to spend an afternoon. A well-stocked library is indeed a wonderful thing, and the design of the space can certainly enhance the experience of being there. A dome-shaped ceiling is a particularly striking feature that can add a sense of grandeur and openness to a reading room. The wooden chairs also add to the charm of the space, providing a comfortable and cozy atmosphere for reading and contemplation. Give me the Domed Reading Room as a perfect setting for reading books and quiet solitude and I am a happy man.
Old Treasury Building
The Old Treasury Building in Melbourne, Australia was designed by 19-year-old architect John James ‘JJ’ Clark in the Renaissance Revival style. The exterior of the building was constructed with sandstone from the Bald Hills quarry and bluestone foundations from Footscray. The floor above the basement is one metre thick. Using local materials for construction can give buildings a sense of connection to the place where they are located.
Royal Exhibition Building
Did you know that the Royal Exhibition Building (picture in the main image at the top of this post) was the first building in the country to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage status? Completed in 1880, it was built to host the first official World’s Fair in the Southern Hemisphere. Though smaller sections have been lost to fire or other damage, the Great Hall has survived. Few things say ‘Melbourne’ to me as much as seeing the great dome!
Read about more buildings that I love in Melbourne at johnsage.net.au >>