Utzon’s method of Critical Regionalism is all the more valid today with our fascination for technology often overcoming us and resulting in an impressive but soulless behemoth or bauble. As NSW burns and petrol prices climb more than a token approach to sustainable design is also required and an architecture “tied to geographical and cultural context” is all the more important for longevity.

Exceptional buildings like this go beyond a symbolic representation of place, they give back more than they take. And whilst this is the most famous example of Utzon’s work I encourage you to have a look at his residential work, the perfect inspiration, a benchmark for timeless design. His Mallorca House embraced its setting on many levels – local stone, adapted local building techniques, distilled in to a handful of component parts. All come together to create a unique home – see how he choreographs and intensifies views with depth and geometry.
What are your favourite timeless buildings? Why do you think they have stood the test of time?
Photography : Joanne Nataprawira