Originally an Engineering School, the John Woolley Building now stands before you. This building is named after the first Principal of The University of Sydney. Its walls whisper tales of science, literature, and perhaps a little confusion.
The John Woolley Building’s story began between 1906 and 1908. Walter Liberty Vernon, a government architect, designed it. Later, Leslie Wilkinson added his touch in 1922. The John Woolley Building was crafted in Federation Arts and Crafts style. Its face brickwork and stone dressings add to its charm.
Note the curved lecture theatre. It protrudes externally and notice the chequerboard pattern gables. Don’t miss the tapered chimney. These details mark it as the first in a series of unusual buildings on the campus.
Once upon a time, the clock face from the Main Building’s clock tower found a new home here. It was relocated to the south wall of the John Woolley Building. It faced the Teacher’s College.
In 1910, a photograph captured the John Woolley Building. It was then the Engineering School.
Today, the John Woolley Building houses literature and linguistics. Many say it has the most confusing floorplan on campus. Levels 2, 3, and 4 are accessible from Science Road. Level 1 can only be reached from Manning Road.
Belmadar undertook a mechanical upgrade to the heritage-listed John Woolley Building. This included a mechanical plant room. Air-conditioning was installed throughout the building.
The John Woolley Building stands as a testament to change. It has evolved from an Engineering School to a hub for literature. Its confusing layout adds to its unique character. The John Woolley Building is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living, breathing part of the University of Sydney.