The imposing and often controversial Brutalist style building is a multi-purpose and renowned event space in Sydney. Designed by the firm Joseland and Gilling in the 1970s, Sydney Masonic Centre boasts in-your-face concrete surfaces, bold curves and sharp diagonal lines, whereas its interiors introduce timber textures with oak framed glazing and bespoke oak furnishings. Besides playing host to countless talks, galas, conferences and weddings, the premier event space is also hosting a number of enchanting Candlelight concerts this season.
Situated on the corner of Castlereagh and Goulburn streets, Sydney Masonic Centre is located in the heart of the city’s central business district. The closest train station is Museum Station, only a 3-minute walk from the Centre. It’s also only a 10-minute walk from Central Station and Town Hall Station. If you’re getting there by car, there are two available car parks nearby, namely Secure World Square Car park and Secure Goulburn Street Car park.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about Sydney Masonic Centre
1. The building’s history dates back to the late 1960s.
In 1967, Grand Architect TW Hodgson and architect Ronald Gilling of the prestigious Joseland & Gilling architecture firm were hired to design the SMC. It wasn’t until 1976 that the foundation stone was laid. The building was completed two years later and opened eventually on March 10, 1979, when it was also dedicated. The massive office tower we see today atop the Sydney Masonic Centre was completed in 2004.
2. The Centre offers 13 fully-accessible multi-purpose spaces.
Whether it’s a gala or a business meeting, with 13 versatile spaces, now you’ve found the space to plan your next event. From the impressive Marble Foyer to the Grand Lodge tiered 600-seat auditorium and lavish Banquet Hall, these multi-purpose spaces are fully equipped with state-of-the-art AV technology and complemented by elegant interiors.
3. There’s also catering included should you need it for your event!
With menus inspired by modern Australian cuisine, classic French techniques, or bold Asian flavours, the venue’s Head Chef provides tailored menus to the SMC’s clients. Always serving only delicious food prepared with fresh and local ingredients, on-site, within a fully licensed venue. From breakfast menus to cocktails and buffets, whatever you need for your next event, the SMC’s got you!
Candlelight concerts at Sydney Masonic Centre
The grandeur and splendour of the event venue provides an imposing background to the popular Candlelight concerts—intimate and candlelit tributes to some of the biggest names in music. This season, there are new concerts added to the list, featuring the works of Japanese anime composer Joe Hisaishi, the best of rock legends like Queen and Fleetwood Mac and timeless composers like Beethoven and Debussy. Whatever your music preference is, you’re sure to find something you enjoy from this incredibly vast repertoire.
What else can you do at Sydney Masonic Centre?
Besides these captivating concerts by candlelight, Sydney Masonic Centre hosts a myriad of events. From retail and trade exhibitions, international conferences and business meetings to graduations and wedding receptions, the spacious halls of the Centre have seen it all. Make sure to contact the venue and its organisers with all the details on your event and let them take care of the rest.
From weddings and business meetings to intimate concerts, Sydney Masonic Centre is the perfect spot for any occasion. Don’t miss out on this season’s mesmerising Candlelight concerts taking place at the impressive venue in Sydney’s central business district. The popular series is also illuminating other stunning spaces across the city, so make sure to check those out, too.