Sydney's Powerhouse Ultimo renovation gets $1.3 billion boost
The government of New South Wales has set aside AUD 1.3 billion (approximately EUR 78 million) for the refurbishment of Powerhouse Ultimo, signifying the concluding stage of a cultural revitalization in Sydney. This initiative represents the most significant cultural funding since the inauguration of the Sydney Opera House half a century ago, aiming to convert Ultimo into a museum dedicated to applied arts, design, and technology. The renovation is being carried out by Durbach Block Jaggers, Architectus, Youssofzay+Hart, and Studio Tyrell. Powerhouse CEO Lisa Havilah envisions establishing a premier institution. The museum will include four exhibition areas, a plaza spanning 2,000 square meters, and a redesigned entrance. Powerhouse Parramatta, crafted by Moreau Kusunoki, is set to debut in 2025, alongside enhancements to Powerhouse Castle Hill and Sydney Observatory.
Key facts
- AUD 1.3 billion investment by New South Wales government
- Powerhouse Ultimo renovation is final phase of three-site cultural project
- Largest cultural investment since Sydney Opera House
- Architecture team: Durbach Block Jaggers, Architectus, Youssofzay+Hart, Studio Tyrell
- New features: 2,000 sqm plaza, internal courtyard, reoriented entrance
- Powerhouse Parramatta opening in 2025, designed by Moreau Kusunoki
- Powerhouse originated as MAAS in 1879, holds 500,000+ objects
- Current building is a 1902 power station, renovated in 1988
Entities
Artists
- Lionel Glendenning
Institutions
- Powerhouse
- New South Wales Government
- Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences
- Durbach Block Jaggers
- Architectus
- Youssofzay+Hart
- Studio Tyrell
- Moreau Kusunoki
- Centre Pompidou
Locations
- Sydney
- Australia
- New South Wales
- Ultimo
- Parramatta
- Castle Hill
- Darling Harbour
- Central Precinct
- Blackwattle Bay
- Pyrmont
- Macarthur Street
- Goods Line
- Darling Square