Must see: Sydney Opera House

Jeffrey Burk — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 03:39:47 +0000

Arguably the most recognizable building in the world, The Sydney Opera House, was designed by architect Jorn Utzon in 1957. The inspirational series of roof shapes create a monolithic form that draws visitors toward it from land and sea. The view of the sail-like roof forms from the Manly ferry is undeniably beautiful as the building appears to float on water. It is approximately 185 m (611 ft) long and 120m (380 ft) wide at its widest point. The highest roof vault (above the Concert Hall) is 67m (221 ft) above sea level. Approaching the Opera House by foot is just as rewarding. The stairs cascade down the front of the building are faced with pink aggregate granite which was quarried at Tarana in New South Wales.

There are a number of restaurants on the bridge side of the Quay with a view of the Sydney Opera House, however Aria has an amazing, sweeping view of The Opera House and the Harbour Bridge from their main dining room.

Must see: Notre-Dame-du-Haut

Jeffrey Burk — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:20:57 +0000

Notre-Dame-du-Haut is the architect Le Corbusier’s chapel in Ronchamp, France. I had to make the pilgrimage as I was obsessed with this building ever since studying it in Architecture school. Now to describe the building and the experience getting there: the building is surreal. Sublime. Ironic. While getting there was an adventure in train schedules, bus stops and hitch-hiking. The sailing concrete forms were definitely unlike anything I have seen before or since. Well worth the trouble to visit in one’s lifetime.

I, Wanderer » Must See

Must see: Sydney Opera House

Must see: Notre-Dame-du-Haut