Sydney Unlocked

Friday, 02 May | Walking Tours

Sydney Metro

Hosted by: Woods Bagot
When: 4–5pm, Friday, 2 May

Meeting point: Front steps of Sydney Opera House

This tour offers a glimpse into the design behind Sydney’s largest railway station refurbishment and the addition of the new Sydney Metro. Explore the station’s architecture, discover the design philosophy, and see how it blends modern principles with functional transit design.

Quay Quarter Tower

Hosted by: 3XN Architects
When: 4–5pm, Friday, 2 May
Meeting point: Front steps of Sydney Opera House

Join 3XN Architects for a tour of the award-winning Quay Quarter Tower, a groundbreaking transformation that reused 65% of the original structure, saving 12,000 tonnes of carbon. Discover how this project set new standards for sustainable design.

Accessibility notes: 

Tour of the lower-level public areas only, including the podium garden. The tour will include the will use of stairs and escalators.

Quay Quarter Precinct

Hosted by: ASPECT Studios
When: 4–5pm, Friday, 2 May
Meeting point: Front steps of Sydney Opera House

Quay Quarter Lanes & Quay Quarter Tower

Explore Quay Quarter Lanes and Quay Quarter Tower with the design team and see how five laneways and two arcades were transformed into a vibrant, walkable space blending heritage and modern design. Discover how this landmark project blends design, nature, and public spaces to redefine urban life.

Sydney Theatre Company

Hosted by: Hassell
When: 4–5pm, Friday, 2 May
Meeting point: Front steps of Sydney Opera House

Join Hassell for an exclusive tour of Sydney Theatre Company for a behind-the-scenes tour of their iconic harbour-front home. Explore how the design preserves heritage while supporting theatre production, from set-making to performance, for the next generation.

Art Gallery of NSW

Hosted by: Tonkin Zulaikha Greer
When: 4–5pm, Friday, 2 May
Meeting point: Front steps of Sydney Opera House

Having recently undergone a refurbishment and the addition of a new extension, the Art Gallery of NSW is an icon of the Sydney landscape. Balancing the intersection of old and new, the recent architectural works are a testament to the power of thoughtful revitalisations and the importance of active cultural institutions to foster community and shape experiences.

State Library of NSW

Hosted by: Dr. Caroline Butler-Bowdon 
When: 4–5pm, Friday, 2 May
Meeting point: Front steps of Sydney Opera House

Join State Librarian Dr. Caroline Butler-Bowdon for a tour of the renewed State Library of NSW. As an important project for the creation (and recreation) of publicly accessible spaces, this tour will explore the intersection of heritage, community, and accessibility, and the essential role of architecture at its epicentre.