Regular readers will know I’m a big fan of older types of architecture, particularly Art Nouveau and Art Deco (see next post) but I also like the newer stuff, when it has some character, and Melbourne is one of the most awe-inspiring cities I’ve ever been to for its state-of-the-art skyscrapers and other interesting contemporary buildings. Here are a few, mainly around the CBD, that caught my eye.
My favourite scraper is the Premier Tower www.premiertower.com.au on Spencer St, which was the first building I saw when I came out of Southern Cross Station coming from the airport.
It looks like an icicle that has started to melt.
Not sure what this one is called but it’s opposite the Carlton Gardens on La Trobe St.
The Barak Building was near my hotel and I walked past it many times without ever noticing that was a face in the facade, until very early one morning when the light caught it just right. It’s a portrait of influential Aboriginal artist and activist, William Barak (1824–1903).
I also like the wavy lines of Abode318 www.abode318.com.au on Russell St.
Not sure what this one is called on Swanston St opposite the uni, but I like it because it reminds me of the Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tokyo (my post here).
Lots of other skyscrapers made an impression me but there were too many for me to name.
And there was some lower rise buildings that were interesting too.
In terms of interiors, this goldfish bowl on Lonsdale St looks lovely at night.
And the lift area on the ground floor of MIT on Swanston St is reminiscent of a U-Bahn station.
You can get some nice views of the CBD from the Yarra River as well.
Some older architecture next…