How does the mix of heritage and modernity define Melbourne’s architectural character? This week, our team member Judit reflects on her experience.
If you have ever visited or lived in Melbourne, you won’t be surprised to know that before the pandemic hit, this city had been ranked as the world’s most livable city for seven years in a row. There are many reasons: its culture, diversity, abundance of parks and green areas, safety, good coffee, and definitely not the weather. For me, the most remarkable is the architecture.
I remember my first impression of the city, coming from the airport. From far away, I could see all the giant skyscrapers, it was new and impressive, and I was even more dazzled when I found heritage buildings mixed in with all these skyscrapers. This made me love this city, this contrast of old and new, the fact that you never know what you will find in the next corner. Walk only 10 minutes from the city centre, and you are surrounded by beautiful Victorian houses. Even though you live in such a big city, these one or two-storey homes make you feel like you live in a small town.
Coming from Barcelona, where architecture is very important, with Gaudi’s heritage everywhere attracting tourists worldwide, I was not expecting to be surprised by Australian architecture. This discovery made me realise the importance of taking care of and maintaining heritage buildings and Victorian houses. After all, that is what makes this city so unique architecturally.
Judit Solerdelcoll — Mar 2nd, 2023
