Federation Square stands tall and proud beside a dignified Flinders Street Station. The two buildings, though both iconic features of Melbourne are in complete contrast of each other. The station gives you a glimpse of the city as it was a hundred years ago; while the Square, a mere thirteen years old, represents a youthful Melbourne with all its aspirations.WRAP on Southbank follows a similar theme of marrying old with new, where a brick walled heritage warehouse welcomes you only to lead you into modern apartment accommodation. Among the many hotels South Bank Melbourne has to offer, this one is sure to intrigue you with its unusual ‘exterior wrap’ design.
Federation Square too has been designed to capture your imagination. The city block sized structure sits above operational rail lines, on a site that once held the city morgue, a fish market, corporate offices and rail yards. It is now referred to as a ‘Modern Piazza’ that plays host to international events, cultural exhibitions and even houses several specialty shops, eateries and bars. The design of the building, or interlocking buildings, has the definition of ‘Federation’ at its core. The spaces open at all angles, providing linking but different panoramic views. Outwardly, the buildings connect and have a cohesive appearance but are still distinctly individual. The entire effect is further enhanced with a jigsaw of zinc, glass and sandstone triangles fitting together to complete the outer façade.
City planners always dreamed of bringing the CBD and the Yarra River together and now they have. Now the city’s most popular public space, it has even earned itself sixth place on the Best Public Squares of the World list. It is centrally located in close proximity to the National Gallery of Victoria, Crown Casino, Melbourne Aquarium and Melbourne Cricket Ground.The venue has a year round calendar of events. Entrance to the Square itself is free but prices vary for ticketed events.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
