Sydney Opera House Historical Timeline

Architectural competition and construction

A competition was held for the design of the Sydney Opera House, attracting 233 entries from architects in 32 different countries. The winning design was based on a massive red granite platform, with soaring white-roofed shells shaped like sails that were to be covered in Swedish-made tiles.

It took 16 years to complete the Sydney Opera House and while there were complex engineering problems and skyrocketing costs, it was received with public acclaim once finished. It is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture and highlights the creative genius of Jørn Utzon, together with the capabilities of the Danish engineering firm Ove Arup and Partners and the Australian contractor HR Hornibrook.