Marvelous isn’t it? This magnificent structure before you is the Water Board Monument. More formally known as the Sydney Water Head Office building. It’s not just a building. It’s a silent witness to Sydney’s growth. A testament to the city’s tireless efforts to manage its water supply.
The Water Board Monument wasn’t always a hotel. For decades it served as the headquarters for the Metropolitan Water Sewerage and Drainage Board. Imagine the hustle and bustle. The countless meetings. The crucial decisions made within these very walls. Decisions that shaped Sydney’s water infrastructure. A system vital to the lifeblood of the city.
Construction began in 1938. Completed on December 24 1939. This Art Deco masterpiece was designed by Budden and Mackey. Howie Moffat & Co were the builders. Sculptor Stanley Hammond added his artistic touch. He created the striking bas-relief panels above the Pitt Street entrance. These panels depict the history of Sydney’s water industry. Showing the evolution of technology over time.
The Water Board Monument isn’t just aesthetically stunning. Its construction details are remarkable. Think of the exquisite coloured granite and marble finishes. The intricate architectural terracotta tiles. The bronze and copper elements. These details make it one of the finest examples of Art Deco in Australia.
The building’s interior is equally impressive. Imagine stepping into the grand entrance foyer. The marble and travertine surfaces beneath your feet. The grandeur of the space surrounding you. The original surface finishes hinting at the building’s rich past.
In 2009 Sydney Water relocated to Parramatta. The building was sold. Converted into the Primus Hotel. Later becoming the Kimpton Margot Sydney hotel. This transformation shows how historical structures can adapt to modern needs. While retaining their charm and character.
The Water Board Monument stands tall. A symbol of Sydney’s ingenuity and resilience. It’s a reminder of the city’s continuous pursuit of progress. A legacy etched in stone. Granite marble and bronze. A legacy that continues to inspire. A legacy for you to explore.