Opal Tower (Sydney)

Opal Tower is a striking high-rise residential building located in Sydney Olympic Park, completed in August 2018. With 392 apartments spread across 34 levels, it was developed by Ecove and designed by Bates Smart Architects. However, the tower gained notoriety after a significant evacuation on Christmas Eve 2018 due to structural issues, including loud noises and cracks. This incident prompted a major review of building regulations in New South Wales, leading to new laws requiring the registration of engineers and architects. Despite its troubled history, Opal Tower features modern amenities, including a childcare area and retail spaces, and offers apartments priced between $800,000 and $2.5 million, making it an intriguing site for both tourists and researchers interested in urban development and building safety.