Architecture of Newcastle
Told through Novocastrian eyes
Architecture of Newcastle Part 1 Civic Park Precinct
The Architecture that surrounds Civic Park shows how Newcastle has grown up, but it also predicts the cities future. This film is the first part of a series discussing the iconic structures and art that surround the “Green Heart” of this constantly evolving city.
Architecture of Newcastle Part 2 Roundhouse
It has been called the ice cream cone, the egg cup, we argue if it’s modernist or brutalist, but we all agree its unforgettable. This is the story of how a uniquely shaped council administration building was built then re-birthed as a five star hotel. Maybe it's a metaphor for Newcastle.
Architecture of Newcastle Part 3 War Memorial Cultural Centre
The Newcastle War Memorial Cultural Centre has a phenomenal history. It is a War Memorial delayed by a war, built by the people for the people. It was filled with books, arts and music by a cricket crazed doctor and adorned by artwork connected to a feminist uprising. Only in Newcastle could this all make sense.
Architecture of Newcastle Part 4 Churches of Menkens
The two churches that border Newcastle’s Civic Park are both radically different but designed by the same architect only 6 months apart. The architect Fredrick Menkens was a brawler, drinker and gambler who overflowed with ideas. Over 100 building in the Hunter region came from the mind of this fascinating renegade. Menkens came from Oldenburg in Germany, to Newcastle in Australia, so he literally came from 'Old Castle' to Newcastle.
Architecture of Newcastle Part 5 Town Hall
The Architecture of Civic Park shows how Newcastle grew up and City Hall is a perfect example. Built as a Town Hall back when we were just a Town, by a Mayor inspired by an African adventure It was the centre of our democracy and our social heart for most of the 20th Century. It was home to Australia’s first female Lord Mayor who hoisted the Aboriginal Flag years ahead of any other City in the country. In fact, the orientation of its steps gave us Civic Park and many Novocastrians are a result of love found at the infamous Town Hall Dances. City Hall has now been lovingly restored and faces a bright new future. Enjoy
Architecture of Newcastle Part 6 NESCA House
Nesca House is the unsung hero of the buildings that surround Civic Park. Stunning inside and out, it was built to welcome Novocastrians to the future, promoting and providing all things electric to the entire region. Now it trains the fine artists of the future, serving as a part of our prestigious University of Newcastle faculties. Enjoy the Story of Nesca House.
Architecture of Newcastle Part 7 ArtGallery
Newcastle Art Gallery is an interesting building. Opened in the same year as Roundhouse, it was designed by a council architect to do two main things, preserve and present art. It does these this remarkably well, but it’s also understated, sublime and a wonderful example of Brutalism. Its biggest flaw is not its designers fault, four and a half decades after its completion the Cities collection has grown 500% and it now time for change. The greatest chapter of this building history is about to be written.
Architecture of Newcastle Part 8 Civic Fountain
If you’re looking to understand how far Newcastle has come as a city, look no further than Civic Fountain. This project had many enemies, both in power and in the community. Not only was it an abstract sculpture but was designed and built by a woman. The Mayor of the time was furious that a “House Wife” was in control of this major piece. Now it’s impossible to think of Newcastle without connecting it to the stunning work of Margel Hinder, which is surrounded by the quality work our own Brian Suters.