Civic Walk: An Insider’s Tour of Newcastle’s Public Buildings

A stunning example of Brutalism, this is probably Newcastle's most easily recognizable building. Nicknamed the 'cork' or the 'round building', it is without a doubt a product of its time. Designed by Romberg & Boyd in association with Wilson & Suters, it was completed in 1977. Love it or loathe it, a building so easily photographed must be doing something right.

Standing proudly across Civic Square from the City Administration Centre, the prestigious Newcastle City Hall was commissioned in 1925. The brick and concrete building comprising a clock tower, balconies, balustrades and external stairs was clad in Sydney sandstone to create a grandiose edifice. In 1977, when the council moved to its current location, the city hall was carefully converted into a multipurpose Function and Conference venue suitable for a variety of public events.

Putting education back into the centre of public life, the University House is a classic Art Deco building with its curved sandstone walls, repetitive patterns and use of stainless steel window frames. Along with a couple University faculties and a cafe, it most notably houses the Conservatorium of Music which runs an extensive Musical program throughout the year.

Civic Park marks the geographical and symbolic heart of the Newcastle civic block, surrounded on all sides by public institutions. Well used and loved, the park is celebrated by its monumental fountain, designed by female sculptor Margel Hinder in 1966. Born in NY, Margel moved to Australia and became involved in the Australian Modernist movement. This sculpture was built in collaboration with local architects Wilson, Barnett & Suters.

The Newcastle War Memorial Cultural Centre was designed to house the city's Public Library, Art Gallery and Conservatorium of Music. Today, it houses the Newcastle Region Library and the Lovett Gallery, currently showing the "Wildlife Photographer of the Year" exhibition. A stunning collection of photographs well worth its gold coin donation running until July 30th. Also notable is the bronze scultpture permanently displayed in the foyer since 1957. Designed by Lyndon Dadswell, they represent "youth emerging from the conflict of war and looking with hope and courage to the future." Above their heads, one can read the words "In minds enobled here, the noble dead shall live."

The Newcastle Region Art Gallery was the first purpose-built regional Art Gallery in Australia. Built in 1977, it is another interesting example of Brutalist Architecture. Derived from Modernist Architecture, the style is typically characterised by repetitive angular geometry and exposed concrete in a raw state. In the years to come, the Art Gallery is scheduled to undergo extensive redevelopment which should include more storage and exhibition space for the collection, a cafe and improved retail space. In the meantime, 'Laverty 2' will be on show until the 14th of August while 'Citizen's Collectors' will remain until the 4th of September.