Overview
We all know how pretty Sydney is on the outside, but she's not all surface. There are hundreds of alternative perspectives awaiting you on the inside — and that's what Sydney Open is all about. For one weekend a year, this event gives you the chance to explore the intestinal passages of the city's most spectacular buildings. And, in 2016, there's a bunch of new additions to the program.
Leading these is the Botanic Gardens' brand spanking new The Calyx, whose design is inspired by a flower's sepals, as well as the EY Centre, where you'll see the latest in sustainable design. Meanwhile, step into an epic, seven-storey atrium in the Macquarie Group's No. 1 Martin Place, and get a glimpse of three, heritage-listed transformed for contemporary use in the Hassell studio at Pier 8/9. Other newcomers include Barangaroo's International Towers, Walsh Bay's Pier 2/3 and Arup Studios and Workshop.
A stack of favourites will be making a reappearance, too. At Central Station, you can visit the ghostly, no-longer-used Platforms 26 and 27 and climb up the 302 stairs inside the sandstone Clock Tower. After that, try crossing to St Mary's Cathedral Tower to squeeze up its 120 Hobbit-sized steps. For a dose of history, there's also the Australian Museum's original wing, The Mint, St James (Australia's longest-running church), Chippendale's Mortuary Station and the Reserve Bank's incredible art collection.
All in all, more than 70 buildings will fling their doors — and hearts — open to the public. If you're keen to see loads of them, your best bet is to invest in an open ticket, which lets you in everywhere. To add an educational experience to your adventure, book a focus tour. You'll get the guidance of an expert, as well as access to secret, hidden spaces.
Sydney Open takes place on November 5 to 6 at various locations around the city. For more information, visit the Sydney Open website.