Paddington

Paddington Reservoir Gardens 

Yesterday we visited the Paddington Reservoir Garden in Oxford Street, Paddington opposite the old Town Hall.  This Reservoir was once a vital source of water for Sydney in the 19th Century, but it has now been transformed into a beautiful parkland oasis in the heart of Sydney.  It resembles a modern "Hanging Gardens of Babylon".  Original structures have been preserved and fused with contemporary and sustainable elements presenting as a layering of old and new.  Parts of it resemble an old Roman bath house, especially around the Lake of Contemplation with its backdrop of old ruined brick archways.

The old brick archways of the Reservoir have been preserved and strengthened and the new constructions have been layered seamlessly to create this wonderful public park for all to enjoy.  It was opened in 2009.

In the middle is this peaceful and tranquil pool called The Lake of Contemplation.  I love the reflections in the pool from above.

The ruins and the new construction in the background creating a breezeway connection to the upper park .

The old Eastern Chamber of the Reservoir is available as a flexible new community space.  However, the gate to this Chamber was locked so I guess it is only available for hire.

Some of the gardens, with lush ferns around the pool. There is also a grove of lovely Australian grass trees.

A lift between the levels is also available for those less mobile.

Here is the new breezeway leading on to the upper lawn on street level with access to busy Oxford Street.  The main park level is below the street on the original base level of the Western Chamber of the Reservoir.