Resting on the shores of Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Opera House is an eye-catching addition to an area already blessed with inspiring views. Its sublime form makes it one of the most distinguished buildings of the 20th century, housing a concert hall, opera and drama theatre as well as a playhouse and studio.

The Opera House's design was the vision of Danish architect Jørn Utzon, whose proposal was selected over 232 entries in a public competition. Its appearance is reputedly based on slices taken from an orange, resulting in the distinctive egg-shell shape that creates the optimum performance setting for opera, ballet and theatre.

The attractive canopy was a considerable challenge for engineers and marked one of the earliest uses of computer analysis in building design. The shells were constructed using precast concrete with 'ribs' as support and covered in crème coloured Swedish tiles. Both the architect and engineers claimed this solution as their own invention and the project was completed with more than its fair share of controversy.

As one of the most well-known performing arts centres in the world, the Sydney Opera House broadens the city's multi-faceted appeal. Its expressionist features add a sophisticated balance to Sydney’s built environment which is dominated by steel and glass.

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