Australian icon set for makeover

The world-famous Sydney Opera House, a premier tourist destination in Australia, is to undergo a $202 million renovation, the largest since it opened its doors in 1973.

Those famous arches will soon include a new Creative Learning Centre for children and families, who can participate in workshops, creative play activities and performances.  There will also be a separate space for a permanent digital classroom where students will be able to work with artists in programmes spanning drama, music, maths, science, literature, history and other study areas.

An updated entrance and foyers under the monumental steps will boast everything from new elevators to digital art canvases, and provide better access for those with disabilities. A new multi-function centre, where conferences and weddings with views of the harbor can be held, will be another highlight of the renovation.

One of the major undertakings will be the improvement of the acoustics in the main concert hall, which will be redesigned by Melbourne-based ARM Architecture. The updated concert hall will feature a 3D sound system and quieter air-conditioning.  In addition, the renovation will lower the stage and install a ceiling with reflectors to try and improve the distribution of  the sound.