Why is Sydney's Wran Building at the Powerhouse Museum being demolished?

The Wran Building is being demolished as part of a $300 million redevelopment to modernize the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo, with the government citing the need to meet contemporary standards.

What are the concerns regarding the Powerhouse Museum's Wran Building demolition?

Critics are concerned about the loss of heritage and exhibition space, potential design changes altering the building's character, and the significant cost of the redevelopment.

When is the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo redevelopment expected to be completed?

The redevelopment of the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo, initially planned to reopen in 2027, is now forecast for completion in late 2028 or early 2029.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Iconic Wran Building Demolished, Sparking Outrage

Iconic Wran Building Demolished, Sparking Outrage

5 Feb

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Summary

Sydney's Wran Building at Powerhouse Museum is being demolished.
Critics argue the redevelopment sacrifices heritage and exhibition space.
The $300 million redevelopment timeline has been extended to 2029.

Iconic Wran Building Demolished, Sparking Outrage

Sydney's beloved Wran Building at the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo is undergoing demolition, causing significant public outcry. This iconic cultural landmark, standing for nearly four decades, is being dismantled, with its distinctive steel ribs already removed. Critics express dismay, fearing a diluted museum experience and a substantial loss of heritage and exhibition areas due to the $300 million redevelopment.

The Minns government asserts the rebuild is necessary for modernization. However, former museum officials contest claims of structural failure, attributing deterioration to neglected maintenance and proposing a cheaper repair. Concerns are also raised about design changes that will replace glass ends with brick, diminishing the building's characteristic openness and light.

Public backlash has erupted on social media, with many mourning the loss of a cherished childhood destination. Questions are also surfacing regarding the broader Powerhouse overhaul strategy and the relocation to Parramatta. The redevelopment aims to reorient the entrance, add new facilities, and alter heritage structures, but funding for operational requirements remains uncertain.