The Gadigal people of the Eora nation
New South Wales
The Sydney Opera House was facing several problems by 2012, including outdated theatre machinery, poor acoustics, and accessibility issues. In response, CEO Louise Herron launched a “Decade of Renewal” leading up to the building’s 50th anniversary in 2023. ARM Architecture was appointed to revamp the Concert Hall, the last and largest of the renewal projects. The project aimed to improve the hall’s acoustics, functionality, and accessibility. New architectural interventions such as petal-shaped reflectors and sculpted timber panels were introduced to solve the Hall’s acoustic problems, while the stage was lowered and rebuilt with automated risers. Automated drapes and a new theatre machinery system were also installed. A passageway and lift were added to the foyers to improve the visitor experience and allow equitable access to all spaces. The result is a renewed Concert Hall for the next generation and a venue acoustically on par with the world’s great halls.
ARM developed a design that both respects the heritage of the Concert Hall and allows performers and patrons to experience the venue in new ways.
The well-considered interventions to the building fabric now provide equitable paths of travel to all levels. Inside the auditorium the ripples of beautiful brushbox diffusion, support Peter Hall’s vision and provide acoustic clarity and power that has moved some performers close to tears.
These benefits, coupled with upgrades to theatre systems and back of house spaces, have renewed the Concert Hall and provides a platform for performances that will define Australia’s cultural landscape for generations.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
