Form, Function and Monumentality: A Critical Analysis of Jørn Utzon’s Late Work on the Sydney Opera House

The reengagement of Jørn Utzon on the Sydney Opera House in 1999 was considered an international coup and opportunity for healing closure to controversy sparked by his departure 32 years earlier. This paper investigates consequences Utzon’s analyses work completed collaborators thereafter, both with respect original successor, Peter Hall. A focus is proposal JPW Architects, a New Theatre replace existing theatre Hall 1973. controversial project challenges pre-existing narratives which as either “unfinished” or “salvaged” masterpiece. While 50 successful operation can be attributed contribution Hall, this becomes more complicated when within context monumentality. need accommodate evolving functional requirements fixed external form highlights inherent contradictions concept “modern monument.” By agreeing become reassociated most important work, signalled that he recognised these and, through three projects, demonstrated how building could continue evolve into future.