George Street

As a original high street, George Street is one of the busiest street in Sydney. Located at the heart of Sydney CBD, it is treated as the icon of Sydney Australia.

The length of George Street is around 3 km. The north origin of street is The Rocks, near Sydney Harbour Bridge. And then extends to the southern end of Sydney, Central Station. Broadway is the continuation of George Street, turning westwards.

Along current George Street, there are numerous important buildings and precincts. There are more high-rise buildings than any other street in Australia. Walking through George Street, you can find residential buildings, commercial buildings, retails, restaurants, and headquarters or branches of Global 500.

The origins of George Street lie in the layout of the Sydney Cove Colony. It is reported that George Street is the first street in Australia.

As a long and major street through Central Sydney, George Street pass through a number of precincts or distinct sections. For example,
Central Station- the southern end of George Street;
China Town;
Town Hall;
Wynyard;
and The Rocks.

However, this busy street is facing a problem now. The traffic jam problem is becoming worse and worse year by year. Especially, during peaking hour, drivers cannot pass George Street easily. They should wait in the cars or buses. Therefore, local government announce a project- $1.6 billion light rail line. The potential benefits of the project are:
1. remove buses and install light rail to improve pedestrian access, and reduce the situation of traffic jam happen;
2. create George Street as a more modern and convenience district to meet, socialise, and shop.

Therefore, I think the project should be approved and a whole new George Street will be appeared in the future.

Dynamic Oxford Street

Oxford Street, London is famous all over the world. However, there is another Oxford Street, which is located in Sydney. Compared with London's one, Oxford Street Sydney has more functions and be more dynamic.

Oxford Street is a major thoroughfare in Sydney. It starts from Whitlam Square on the south-east corner of Hyde Park, another end point is Bondi Junction in the eastern suburb. Oxford Street pass through the suburbs of Darlinghurst, Paddington, Centennial Park, and part of Moore Park. As we know, there is no train line at eastern suburb of Sydney. Therefore, Oxford Street is the  only way which must be passed by most of public transportations and private cars. Bus 380 and 382 travel all along the Oxford Street, which can help you feel this amazing street.

Colourful Street (smh, 2014)

Busy Street (smh, 2014)

At the same time, Oxford Street is famous for its numerous of shops, bars, and nightclubs. That means, you can visit here at anytime you want, and you can find full of people at here. According to its diversified retails, it has become the most fashionable street in Australia. And it becomes very popular all over the world.

Besides, some heritage building could be found at here, such as, Paddington Town Hall, Victoria Barracks, and St Matthias Church Group. Oxford Street is a place where modern element and traditional culture can be combined successfully.

Victoria Barracks (smh, 2014)

However, this street is facing an important issue- the increasing number of crime. Therefore, local council has noticed some laws to prevent this situation from becoming worse and worse. I think relevant laws must change the close time of nightclubs, and require the limitation of alcohol purchased per person.

Problems at Oxford Street (smh, 2013)

Because of Westfield Shopping Centres are open at city and bondi junction. The alive of Oxford Street has disappeared. So locals and the government believe they should find out methods to keep the area alive and vibrant.

I think it should be interesting to see what happens to Oxford Street over the next few years.

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Sydney Opera House

With no doubt, if we treat Eiffel Tower as the postcard of France; Sydney Opera House should be the postcard of Australia. 

(Australian Government, 2014)

As the landmark of Sydney, it was designed by Danish Architect- Jorn Utzon. After being inaugurated in 1973, the Sydney Opera House became one of the greatest architectural work in 20 century. In June 2007, Sydney Opera House was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

It took 16 years to build, from 1957 to 1973. The main reason for this pretty long construction period should be the challenge of the roof. The technical challenge of how to construct the roof sails took four years to solve. The roof sails were based on the geometry of the sphere and Utzon used this to demonstrate the creative potential and the assembly of prefabricated, repeated components. It was seen as a structure at the leading edge of endeavour. 

(Australian Government, 2014)

However, when the time turns into 21 century, some problems have appeared for the architectural work. Therefore, Sydney Opera House received AUS$152m to redevelop the wide range of infrastructure. 

The funds will be spent on improving backstage access to the Opera Theatre, including a new loading dock and lift system, linked to the nearest road by tunnel. It is reported that more than 200 incidents happen annually, most of them have necessitated ambulances coming. Therefore, I think the Government should build a tunnel to connect the opera house to the main road. And also, the tunnel should be designed to carry the heavy goods vehicles. 

UNESC, 2014

I believe, after developing, Sydney Opera House will be much stronger for over 50 years. 

Hyde Park Sydney

The oldest public parkland in Australia- Hyde Park, should be one of the most well-known location as well. It was formed since 1810, named after Hyde Park London. During early time, it was the recreation and amusement of the inhabitants of the town and a field of exercises for the troops. Although earlier functions almost disappear, it has been treated as the best open place for residents and visitors around the world. 

With just over 40-acre size, it is located on the southern side of Sydney Centre. There is no shortage of lush grass if you want to claim a small piece of land for the picnic, enjoy leisure time, and take a break under the sunshine. At the same time, there are a large number of big, leafy trees in order to offer cooler shade for a break from the sum. 

As mentioned above, it was a racecourse and sporting ground playing host to all manners of competition. However, the only reminder of 19th century earlier competitive heritage is the huge playable chess set that features on the western side of the Park. 

The most important element of the Park is the Archibald Fountain, a gift from JF Archibald. Another notable design is the ANZAC War Memorial, which was open in 1934. 

Nowadays, it has become the spot for some parties and special events throughout the year. For instance, it has hosted the Sydney Food and Wine Fair, the launch of NAIDOC, the week-long Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander celebration, and quite a few pop-up events for the renowned  Sydney Festival. Also, Hyde Park becomes a Summer Playground on Australia Day with the park transforming into a children’s festival.  

I think the public facilities are convenience around here. As a accessible park, public toilets are available at here. Transportation system is express and flexible at here, such as lot of bus routes and two railway stations. If you plan to come here by bike, you can find bike parking as well. 

All in all, I think as a public parkland, Hyde Park is offering benefits for people in Sydney. 

Martin Place Sydney

In order to become an international global city, the city of Sydney contains a number of skyscrapers, clear and clean street furnitures, high-quality infrsatructure, traffic line & road cross line. At the same time, a beautiful square for people to have lunch, take a rest , or cross the city should be treated as another key element. Therefore, Martin Place is a good example to prove the functions of the square for the whole modern global city.

panoramic view of Martin Place (wikipedia, 2014)

Located at the heart of Sydney, it was formed since 19th century. During that time, it was a small plaza between George Street and Pitt Street. Since 1980, it has become the pedestrian-only all the way to Macquarie Street. As time goes on, Martin Place becomes one of the most important landmarks in Sydney.

The first function of Martin Place. It is the home of banks, e.g. the Reserve Bank of Australia, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Macquarie Bank, etc. Therefore, the finance and business centre has been formed at here.

Secondly, it is the place which offer the space for workers and visitors to criss-cross the city, sit down, and enjoy lunch. Besides, it is the platform for buskers and street marketing teams. Martin Place is the multi-cultural centre for people to feel the nature of Sydney.

Moreover, characteristic architectural buildings are built at here. With different architectural style, Martin Place has become the gallery of Architecture. The original post office is operating as well, which is designed by colonial architect James Barnet. Challis House which was designed by W.L. Vernon and other architects.  The state savings bank building with a distinctive terracotta and pink granite Beaux-Arts facade.

State Savings Bank (wikipedia, 2014)

Post Office (wikipedia, 2014)

Finally, it has the convenience transportation network surround Martin Place. At here, you can find the entrance of Martin Place Railway Station, the bus stop, and pedestrian route to everywhere of CBD.

entrance to railway station (wikipedia, 2014)

King George V Recreation Centre

With no doubt, the areas where people live and work- especially modern neighbourhood, need to be completed by provisions for sports and exercise. Therefore, City of Sydney create King George V Recreation Centre at the Rocks for residents.

The KGV recreation centre is located at the heart of the Rocks, provides lots of high quality sports and fitness facilities for local people. And also, it provides a range of community services to residents, workers, students and visitors.

The centre contains indoor sports place, where people could play volleyball, basketball, netball, etc., and outdoor sports area for hockey. Besides, the centre offer a wide range of courts for different levels of citizens to join fitness club.

As a local sports centre, it has been operated successfully. Since it could offer suitable courses and facilities for all of people, no matter what generations, what purposes, and what time. At the same time, the location of the centre is another element for successful local sports centre. At the heart of the Rocks, lots of visitors could use the centre as well. They could not only enjoy the natural sceneries of Sydney, but feel the modern spirit of Sydney residents. They could blend in the real life of Sydney.

However, I think local council should improve some facilities for KGV recreation centre. For example, council should provide places where people could stop and watch. I believe this centre will be improved in the future.  

Interesting Places at the Rocks

As the urban locality, tourist precinct and historic area of Sydney,  the Rocks contains plenty of interesting laneways and multi cultural elements. After visiting the Rocks last week, I will introduce some characteristic roads at this traditional area.

The First one is surgeons court, people could enter here via the arch from George Street. The former building at here was the first hospital in Sydney, which was built in 1788. The old brick walls on the opposite side of the modern restaurant. Two small  windows help me to remember my favorite Italian movie- Nuovo cinema Paradiso.

Atherden Street is the shortest street in Sydney, only around 30 meters. At the end of the street, a post-modernism style apartment is lying on the rocks. There is the place showing the balance between traditional and modern styles of Australia. The interesting road could allow some car park at here. That means the old street has useful function nowadays.

Nurse Walk should not be ignored at the Rocks, this nice street is quiet and peaceful. I think if you feel tired after walking at here or choose the suitable place for lunch at the Rocks, Nurse Walk is the best place for your requirements. This road is full of sunshine during the day and plants can be easily find along the road. At here you could get the feel of the old history of Sydney. The Nurses Walk is a great little laneway a few blocks back from the water front – there are several lanes off George Street to get to Nurses Walk. It is packed with nice little cafes and restaurants, along with some interesting little shops. There are a few plaques on the walls which relate to the history of the area. An interesting part of The Rocks and worth a visit.

Argyle Street Fair

As one of the traditional suburbs in Sydney, the Rocks is full of mystery and surprise. It is the combination of traditional and modern elements.

Every Friday to Sunday, the Argyle Street Fair open on Argyle Street and Playfair Street. There are lots of stores sale a large number of amazing stuff with lower prices compared with MYER or David Jones. The fair attract hundreds of people come here every week to take a break, find something interesting, and feel the natural scenery of the Rocks. 

 

 And also, on the both sides of Argyle Street, some restaurants, stores and cafe open. They are connected with open-air to form the pattern language. If you feel tired after walking along the fair, you could have a rest at street cafe and restaurants to see the pedestrians and classical buildings.

I think this fair could be the tourist point for Sydney civic visit route. This is the point to mix classic and modern. However, the place should be improved as well. The space between two stores is so narrow, this may cause crowded at here. Therefore, the environment of the fair cannot be comfortable.

Pacific Square at Maroubra Junction

Today I will introduce one shopping center near my apartment.

It is called Pacific Square, which is located at Maroubra Junction, on Anzac Parade. As a town center, it contains several shops, restaurants, supermarkets, some retails, the Gym, and residential.

Everyday, it attracts a large number of people come here, no mater what generations. Therefore, there is always a lively area in Sydney Eastern Suburb. I think the following paragraphs are reasons for this situation.

For instance, the normal trading hour of Coles at Maroubra is from 6 am to midnight; it has a quite long business hour for people to buy items.

Every Saturday, free animal farm is held at the outdoor of town center. It is the one of the most interesting events for families, especially for parents with their babies. This event could offer special opportunities for babies to feel the nature, enjoy the nature. Many parents believe that this experience is more important than watch cartoon or play video games.

Moreover, there are only two shopping centers at south-eastern suburb: Maroubra Junction and Eastgardens. However, the parking issue is really complicated at Eastgardens, people usually complain they cannot find car parking space successfully at there. On the other hand, the capacity of Pacific Square's parking area can satisfy citizens' demand.

At the same time, fountain is a significant element for lively element. People could sit around the fountain to have a rest, free chat with other people. Children are running around the fountain. Everyone at here could enjoy their times.

Without any doubts, this shopping center need to be improved as well. There is no direction map at the main gate of center, some people cannot find stores easily. Also, the categories of shops are not wide, more stores should be introduced at here.

All in all, this wonderful town center will become more and more beautiful in the future.

Exploring the Sydney Laneway

There are a large number of lane ways at the city of Sydney, they have various functions and shapes at city.  Today I will introduce the laneway of Sydney- Angle Place.

Angle Place is famous for its forgotten sone feature, which is part of the Laneways: By George!Hidden Networks project. There are lots of empty birdcages hanging in the sky, accompanied by the sounds of Sydney's lost birds which may have lived in this area, before the city including this laneway, replaced their native habitats.

Also,  there are some restaurants serving delicious food for people, especially those white collars working at Sydney CBD. In my opinion, this Angle Place is really necessary. Since this one should be belong to quiet backs according to A Pattern Language, people are facing scattered work everyday, they are always pushed by work communities, therefore, they need to take a break and be supported by some kind of quiet.  One of the main function of the laneway is offer a space for people to have a nice lunch, talk with friend, and temporally forget complex work.

Moreover, this laneway can connect Martin Place with George St. When George is crowded, you can choose this way to pass. At here, you can have a rest and slow down your pace to find out the art of Angle Place.

Victoria Street at Beaconsfield

This Wednesday, we visited Alexandria and Beaconsfield with our professor.

Right now, I prefer to  introducing an interesting street I found during the field trip- Victoria Street.

At the corner of Victoria Street and  Reserve Street, there is a signal STOP to warn drivers to reduce the speed and look at two directions of Reserve Street. This signal is really significant to avoid traffic accidents.

At the same time, there is a strange situation for parking area, one side of the road requires car must have 60 degree angle parking. This side, cars are required to be parked front to kerb. I think it is so hard for some drivers, and also sometimes drives cannot get off the cars successfully. On the other side of the street, parallel parking is required. I just wonder why on the same road but two different types? In my opinion, 

Moreover, the surface of the street is not flush, the middle of the street is higher than two sides. The reasons for this design, I think, not only because this design is easier for rain water to  fall into sewages; and also, this type of road side is convenience for people to get off from cars.

This street is combined with commercial and residential, but still very peaceful.  The local community has done something useful and  important in order to create this nice street.