Powerhouse Ultimo is poised to undergo a stunning metamorphosis as it shuts its doors for a three-year renovation project set to redefine the heart of Sydney’s cultural precinct.
With just a handful of weeks remaining until the doors close on 4 Feb 2024, eager visitors are seizing their last chance to experience the museum’s current offerings. However, this closure is not the end; it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
The transformative journey, with a whopping $250 million budget, is expected to invigorate the exhibition space that can house an even more impressive array of objects, an intuitive visitor flow, and flexible exhibition areas that will catapult applied arts and sciences into the spotlight.
A key focus of the project will entail preserving the historical gems that have graced Ultimo for over a century. The original power station from 1899, the Turbine Hall, and the 1901 Post Office building will all find their place within the new space. A fresh, green public square will emerge, promising not only a tranquil oasis but also studio spaces for creative minds and the sciences.
With the clock ticking down to the closure of Powerhouse Ultimo, visitors have just a few weeks left to soak in the wonders of the current exhibitions and attractions:
- “1001 Remarkable Objects”: Step into a treasure trove of wonder as you explore 25 rooms brimming with an astounding array of captivating objects. Some of these treasures have never seen the light of the exhibition halls before.
- “Absolutely Queer”: Join in the celebration of Sydney WorldPride 2023 with this exhibition, which delves into the rich tapestry of Sydney’s queer creatives throughout the years, highlighting their invaluable contributions to the city’s vibrant culture.
- “Paradise Camp“: Immerse yourself in Yuki Kihara’s thought-provoking photographic tableaus, as they delicately dissect the intricacies of gender and colonial legacies, placing them squarely under the microscope of scrutiny.
Whilst Powerhouse Ultimo takes its much-needed hiatus, culture enthusiasts need not despair. Powerhouse Parramatta, a cutting-edge cultural institution designed by Moreau Kusunoki and Genton, is slated to open its doors in 2025, marking a historic milestone as the first state cultural institution of NSW based in Western Sydney. Moreover, the Castle Hill site will continue to intrigue visitors throughout 2024, despite its expansion projects.
Published 9-Jan-2024
