Fed Square — Attraction in Melbourne

Federation Square is a venue for arts, culture and public events on the edge of the Melbourne central business district. It covers an area of 3.2 ha (7.9 acres) at the intersection of Flinders and Swanston Streets built above busy railway lines and across the road from Flinders Street station. It incorporates major cultural institutions such as the Ian Potter Centre, Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and the Koorie Heritage Trust as well as cafes and bars in a series of buildings centred around a large paved square, and a glass walled atrium.

Melbourne's central city grid was originally designed without a central public square, long seen as a missing element. From the 1920s there were proposals to roof the railway yards on the southeast corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets for a public square, with more detailed proposals prepared in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1960s, the Melbourne City Council decided that the best place for the City Square was the corner of Swanston and Collins Streets, opposite the town hall. The first temporary square opened in 1968, and a permanent version opened in 1981. It was however not considered a great success, and was redeveloped in the 1990s as a smaller, simpler space in front of a new large hotel.

Meanwhile, in the late 1960s, a small part of the railway lines had been partly roofed by the construction of the Princes Gate Towers, known as the Gas & Fuel Buildings after their major tenant, the Gas and Fuel Corporation, over the old Princes Bridge station. This included a plaza on the corner, which was elevated above the street and little used. Between the plaza and Batman Avenue, which ran along the north bank of the Yarra River, were the extensive Jolimont Railway Yards, and the through train lines running into Flinders Street station under Swanston Street.

After the 1999 State election, while construction was well underway, the incoming Bracks Government ordered a report by the University of Melbourne's Professor Evan Walker into the 'western shard' to be located on the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets, which concluded in February 2000 that the "heritage vista" towards St Paul's cathedral should be preserved, and the shard be no more than 8m in height.

Budgets on the project blew out significantly due to the initial cost being seriously underestimated, given the expense of covering the railyards, changes to the brief, the need to resolve construction methods for the angular design, and the long delays. Among measures taken to cut costs was concreting areas originally designed for paving.

The final cost of construction was approximately $467 million (over four times the original estimate), the main funding primarily from the state government, with $64 million from the City of Melbourne, some from the federal government, while private operators and sponsors paid for fitouts or naming rights.

The square was opened on 26 October 2002. Unlike many Australian landmarks, it was not opened by the reigning monarch, Elizabeth II, nor was she invited to its unveiling; she visited Federation Square in...

Federation Square, located in Melbourne, Australia, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. As an iconic cultural and architectural landmark, it offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere with a wide range of attractions, events, and amenities.

One of the notable features of Federation Square is its unique architectural design. The combination of modern and unconventional structures creates an interesting and visually striking setting. The square is comprised of a series of interconnected buildings, open spaces, and outdoor plazas, which provide a diverse range of experiences.

The square is home to a variety of cultural institutions, including the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. ACMI showcases the history and art of film, television, and digital media, while the Ian Potter Centre houses a vast collection of Australian art. Both institutions offer engaging exhibitions and interactive displays that appeal to art enthusiasts and history buffs.

Federation Square is also known for its lively events and entertainment. The central outdoor plaza often hosts concerts, festivals, and public gatherings, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors. The square's big screen, known as "The Edge," broadcasts major sporting events and cultural programs, drawing large crowds to enjoy the communal experience.

The square boasts a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it an excellent spot for dining and socializing. From casual eateries to upscale establishments, there are options to suit every taste and budget. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing visitors to soak in the atmosphere while enjoying a meal or a drink.

However, it is worth mentioning that opinions on Federation Square are divided. Some people appreciate its architectural uniqueness and the vibrant atmosphere it provides, while others feel that its design is too contemporary and clashes with the surrounding historical buildings. Additionally, the layout of the square can be confusing for first-time visitors, as it does not follow a traditional grid pattern.

In conclusion, Federation Square in Melbourne is a dynamic and engaging destination that offers a mix of cultural attractions, entertainment, and dining options. Whether you're interested in art, film, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the square has something to offer. Just be prepared for its unconventional design and the potential for differing opinions on...

I have never really spent time at Federation Square honestly since it was built,but that changed. Through an opportunity that came my way I have spent a considerable amount of time mostly at night. I have come to like it,at night mainly because of the colours that the buildings change to when the big screen is on. And at night especially over the weekend it can be very busy. Being that they are building the new train tunnel and what I think will be an entrance to the tunnel, unfortunately the view of St Patrick's cathedral is blocked temporarily but that can be for a long period of time. During the day the place will be full of people watching the big screen TV showing the Australian open and it's a fantastic atmosphere that's if the weather permitting. Unfortunately for this year's Australian open its raining but will not last and the hit weather will be back. At night now that's a different place all together. The unfortunate for that place is that the best places in that square are the one's that unfortunately are occupied by the SBS TV station. It's hard to believe that they would give the best view of the area to something that will not be utilised to showcase this beautiful City and the view of the Yarra River. So while that area is blocked and there is no life what's so ever there is only one bar down at road level which doesn't do justice to that space. Not because there is anything wrong with the bar but because the square at night attracts more than its fair share of people unfortunately some off them are there and behave like morons. That should not stop people who would like to enjoy Fed square at night should not be disheartened from going there. There is security and police to keep people safe. The one thing that stops fed square from being what it can and should be a place for the people who live or are here to visit is to have a meal ,a drink is to allow the whole place to be the entertainment area which is incorporating street performances music outdoors cinema and definitely absolutely no Apple HQ or Google or any big company. Unfortunately I don't think the people in charge have the courage or the imagination to go and start something like that. But nothing...