Ancher Mortlock Woolley: Wentworth Building, University of Sydney, 1968?–1972
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The Wentworth Building at the University of Sydney is characterized by its sculptural architecture, in particular the cantilevered top floor above the lighter-looking substructure composed of various shaped elements. The combination of straight and round parts creates a particularly dynamic effect.
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The demolition of the Wentworth Building has been under discussion for quite some time. In 2023, the university published its 2032 Strategy, a ten-year plan that includes several construction and conversion projects. As part of this, the Wentworth Building demolition project appeared to be progressing. The University announced that the Wentworth Building would be demolished by the end of 2027 and replaced by a much larger building with commercial floors, food stalls and a new home for the School of Architecture, Design and Planning (ADP). At the time, however, there was reportedly no official demolition permit. In a report from April 2024, a statement from the university's media office is cited in which it is mentioned that options are currently being examined on how “to enhance our student experience in the Wentworth Building, including a possible redevelopment with a focus on student services, student support, and social spaces, and a potential retail hub. No decision has yet been made.” The future of the building is therefore unclear.
This building was included in the red list, published in our exhibition catalog SOS Brutalism: A Global Survey (September 2017). After a status review on November 26, 2024, it is still classified as red (endangered) in the online database.