Sydney’s QVB getting a 35.7 million dollar makeover
Sydney’s QVB is receiving a well-deserved facelift and will be completely repainted as part of a $35.7 million dollar refurbishment.
Internationally renowned colourist, George Freedman, has devised a spectacular new colour scheme that will highlight the beautiful architecture of the building whilst providing a backdrop for a world-class shopping experience.
As part of the design process, colour test patches have been applied throughout the building and he says that it is important to review these colours in-situ and under different lighting conditions to ensure their suitability.
Over the coming months, further colour tests will be undertaken and refinements will be made to the colour scheme in consultation with key stakeholders.
Voted Sydney’s favourite building in a recent survey, the Queen Victoria Building is a beautiful structure where history, culture, architecture and style converge in a retail environment that is unique by international standards.
Amidst a backdrop of startling Romanesque design, the QVB houses the best of Australia’s contemporary fashion, health and beauty, food, art, gifts, jewellery, homewares and antiques.
The Queen Victoria Building, now affectionately known as the QVB, was designed by George McRae and completed in 1898, replacing the original Sydney markets on the site.
Built as a monument to the long reigning monarch, construction took place in dire times, as Sydney was in a severe recession.
The elaborate Romanesque architecture was specially planned for the grand building so the Government could employ many out-of-work craftsmen – stonemasons, plasterers, and stained window artists – in a worthwhile project.
Originally, a concert hall, coffee shops, offices, showrooms, warehouses and a wide variety of tradespeople, such as tailors, mercers, hairdressers and florists, were accommodated.
The QVB fills an entire city block bound by George, Market, York and Druitt Streets, with the dominant feature the mighty centre dome, consisting of an inner glass dome and an exterior copper- sheathed dome.
Glorious stained glass windows and splendid architecture endure throughout the building and an original 19th century staircase sits alongside the dome.
Every detail has been faithfully restored, including arches, pillars, balustrades and the intricate tiled floors thus maintaining the integrity of the building.
Report by The Mole
John Alwyn-Jones
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