Australia is the smallest of the seven continents of the world. This continent is part of a vast geographical region called Oceania, located in the south of the Pacific Ocean. Oceania has fourteen countries in total; all have different cultures and traditions. One common factor from these nations is their similar influence when it comes to architectural designs. The neoclassical Greek order is familiar to some structures in Australian countries.
Parliament House, Canberra, Australia
Canberra is the capital of Australia, and it is where you can see the Parliament House. Established in May 1988, this Australian grand structure serves as the meeting place of the Parliament Australia from that year until now. The Parliament House cost more than AUD 1.1 billion to build, and by the looks of the building, it is apparent that it required a massive amount of money. The design of the building includes different styles, as well as neoclassical and modern designs with the façade of giant Doric columns, which is notable. Parts of the building have different themes wherein the House consists of 4,700 rooms.
Auckland War Memorial Museum, New Zealand
This museum is one of the most historic places in New Zealand, where it consists of several valuable historical information. It holds various relics including, manuscripts, historical documents, and pictorial art, which possess the nation’s history, natural history, and military history.
The museum has a neoclassical design – and is known to be one of the most iconic in Auckland. The eight fluted Doric columns in the façade of the building are an attraction to many people, which signifies the greatness of this incredible structure.
Public Trust Office of Napier City, Napier City
This building, located in Napier city, is no longer the Public Trust Office since 1998 after they left. Today, it is still known by some as the Public Trust building, which is now on a lease, and the top floor is a gymnasium. When Public Trust was still present in the building, it served as a government building, which caters customers regarding their assets.
The building has a unique design, with its rectangular shape, and Doric colonnade surrounding it. It is apparent on the premise that it has a strong influence from the neoclassical Greek architectural orders.
ASB Bank of Napier City, Napier City
This building is formerly the Bank of New Zealand until ASB Bank used the premise. ASB functions as an ordinary bank to provide secured storage for its customer’s money.
The design of the building pretty much resembles some of the ancient Greek structures, notably the Temple of Nike. Of course, Doric columns are present in the building, along with other Greek orders.
The Shrine of Remembrance – Melbourne, Victoria
A war memorial built in remembrance of the men and women of Victoria who served in World War I. Its design incorporates Doric columns, symbolizing strength and resilience.
General Post Office (GPO) – Sydney, New South Wales
The GPO, with its grand façade, features Doric columns that contribute to its majestic presence in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. While the building now serves as a retail space, its historical and architectural significance remains.
Parliament House – Hobart, Tasmania
The façade of Parliament House in Hobart is adorned with Doric columns, reflecting the building’s status and the solemnity of its purpose within Tasmania’s capital.
Old Government House – Brisbane, Queensland
As one of the oldest surviving buildings in Queensland, Old Government House is an excellent example of colonial architecture, with Doric columns that add to its historic charm.
State Library Victoria – Melbourne, Victoria
The library’s classical façade, including Doric columns, symbolizes the institution’s foundational role in the intellectual and cultural development of Victoria.
The Australian War Memorial – Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
While its style is more Byzantine than purely Neoclassical, the Memorial incorporates Doric columns in some of its structures, blending different architectural influences to honor the memory of Australia’s soldiers.
Supreme Court of Victoria – Melbourne, Victoria
This historic building features Doric columns that emphasize the gravity and authority of the judicial process within the state of Victoria.
Final Thoughts
These buildings, spanning across various states and territories, demonstrate Australia’s engagement with classical architectural principles, using Doric columns to convey strength, stability, and beauty in public and historical buildings.