Francis Greenway – Sydney’s revolutionary convict-era architect
Convict architect Francis Greenway left his mark all over Sydney, with buildings such as the Hyde Park Barracks, Conservatorium of Music and Macquarie Lighthouse. He played a crucial role in transforming the fledgling colony.
Who was Francis Greenway?
Francis Greenway was the revolutionary architect who played an integral role in the transformation of Sydney, Australia from a small colony to a modern city.
Despite being a convicted criminal, Greenway was appointed as the colony’s Acting Civil Architect in 1816 by the governor Lachlan Macquarie.
Greenway designed many iconic buildings in Sydney, including the Hyde Park Barracks and the Conservatorium of Music.
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- Taronga Zoo – the zoo with harbour views (and plenty of cute Aussie animals)
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Greenway’s appointment as Acting Civil Architect
Governor Lachlan Macquarie appointed Greenway as the Acting Civil Architect in 1816 to fulfil his ambitious plans for Sydney’s infrastructure and public buildings. This decision caused controversy as Greenway was a convicted forger.
13 brilliant experiences in Sydney you should book
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- (Highly recommended ✅) Go behind the scenes of Australia’s most famous building on an Opera House tour.
- Dine as the city lights up on sunset dinner cruise around the harbour.
- Combine beers and stories on a historic pubs tour through the convict-era Rocks district.
- Stand on your board and catch waves during Bondi Beach surfing lessons.
- Go to wombat and kangaroo-spotting hotspots on a Southern Highlands tour.
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Francis Greenway’s first commission
Greenway’s first commission for Macquarie was to build a courthouse according to a book’s plans. However, Greenway claimed that he could do far better with a free rein.
He lost the battle over the courthouse but was given much more artistic freedom for future projects.
One of his most famous designs is the Hyde Park Barracks, which was built to house convicts sent from Britain. Despite its purpose, Greenway’s use of inset arches gave the chunky red brick building a lighter feel.
The building now serves as a museum depicting the lives of convicts. Another famous design is the Conservatorium of Music, which was originally built as the stables for Government House. Greenway designed the building with turrets and castellations, an over-the-top design for a stable.
Francis Greenway’s architectural style
One mark of Greenway’s buildings is that he doesn’t stick to one particular style. His first effort for Macquarie was the Macquarie Lighthouse at Dunbar Head, which made heavy use of curves and simple symmetry, with the two cupola-topped side sections giving it a somewhat phallic look.
Francis Greenway’s legacy
Despite being a convict, Greenway’s contributions to the transformation of Sydney were significant. His designs continue to stand the test of time and are an important part of Sydney’s history.
Other works by Greenway include the Obelisk in Macquarie Place and St Matthew’s Church in Windsor.
More New South Wales travel
Walk the America Bay track in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.
Where to stop on a Port Macquarie to Brisbane road trip.
Walk the Maitland Bay Track on the Central Coast.
Learn some history on a Rocks ghost tour.
What is Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in Sydney?