About 42 Maddox St (Sun Studios Alexandria)
42 Maddox Street, Alexandria (inner-Sydney) is home to Sun Studios Australia , a purpose-built photography and film production complex. Housed in a beautifully restored 1930s woolstore (a heritage-listed industrial building (www.colliers.com.au )), it stands out as a creative hub with an industrial-chic vibe. The site covers roughly 2,400 m² and includes six flexible studios (each 120–300 m²) along with extensive technical facilities (contactout.com ). Signature features include a light-filled central atrium with a hanging garden (used as a gallery) and original high ceilings, giving the venue an airy, spacious feel (contactout.com ). The blend of historic charm and modern design – from brick walls to polished floors and an atrium gallery – makes 42 Maddox St a notable piece of Alexandria’s industrial heritage. It has evolved into a beloved spot for Sydney’s visual arts community, often hosting industry events, exhibitions and workshops that celebrate photography and film (contactout.com ).
Events and Programming
42 Maddox St isn’t a concert hall but rather an events venue geared toward creative industry programming. Its calendar typically includes photography exhibitions , product launches, educational workshops and industry seminars. One high-profile recurring event is the annual "This Time It’s Personal" photography exhibition. For example, in Nov 2023 Sun Studios held its 12th annual This Time It’s Personal exhibition, featuring 76 unique photographs by well-known Aussie photographers like Hugh Stewart and Vicki Lee (www.australianphotography.com ). These exhibitions are often fundraisers (100% of prints sales go to the GO Foundation) and draw crowds from Sydney’s creative circles. In 2022 Sun Studios and Canon jointly presented the 11th annual show showcasing the “best in Australian photography talent” (www.australianphotography.com ).
Besides large exhibitions, the venue hosts regular workshops and seminars for photographers, directors and visual makers (lighting classes, portfolio reviews and gear demonstrations). Other events can include pop-up art shows, film shoots and industry meetups. Because the space is fully “wired” for production, it can also accommodate corporate media shoots, commercials or small conferences. Notable alumni of 42 Maddox St events include top commercial photographers and creative directors. In general, programming leans heavily on visual arts and technology. Live musical or theatrical performances are rare here; instead, expect gallery-style openings, AV presentations and hands-on photo labs. (Entry to major exhibitions like This Time It’s Personal is free (www.australianphotography.com ), though prints may range from about $300 and up.)
Tickets and Booking
As 42 Maddox St is primarily a studio and gallery space, there is no traditional box office onsite. For most exhibitions and events, entry is free or managed via invitations. For example, the annual photography expo mentioned above had free admission (www.australianphotography.com ), with fine art prints available for purchase. There are typically no “tickets” to buy; instead, event details (dates and any entry requirements) are announced on Sun Studios’ website and social media. In practice, visitors simply arrive during open hours or RSVP through an event listing if required.
If you plan to attend a workshop or seminar , those usually require advance registration and a fee posted by Sun Studios or partnering organisations. Similarly, if you want to hire a studio at 42 Maddox, you must book in advance through Sun Studios’ rental department. No walk-up rental. In summary, general public events here mostly have open/free admission, while specialized activities need online booking. When in doubt, search for the specific event or contact Sun Studios directly for booking instructions. (Always avoid unlicensed ticket scalpers – legitimate events at 42 Maddox won’t ask you to use third-party ticket websites.)
Seating and Layout
42 Maddox St is an open-plan facility, not a typical seated theatre. There are no fixed rows of audience seats – visitors stand or move around during exhibitions and gatherings. The six studios are mostly large, white-box spaces with high ceilings, ideal for photo/video production. Studio 7, for instance, is fitted for motion picture work (sound-acoustic treatment, a 16×9 cyclorama wall, black side curtains and green-screen capability (rs.locationshub.com )). For events, Sun Studios may set up temporary chairs or decking, but by default it’s a flexible “general admission” floor.
Best vantage points depend on the event. For gallery shows in the central atrium, the lounge mezzanine and balcony allow viewing prints displayed below. At ground level, the atrium gallery floor itself is the main viewing area; it feels like an art gallery or open concept foyer. In filming/studio mode, the client viewing room (with comfy sofas and a kitchenette) offers a place to watch shoots through a window (rs.locationshub.com ). Acoustically, the raw spacious rooms do carry sound – Studio 7’s treatments help dampen echo for film shoots (rs.locationshub.com ). In general, there’s plenty of room to spread out; shy away from standing directly under any lighting grid or blocking camera setups when shows are in progress.
Getting There and Parking
42 Maddox Street is located in Alexandria, NSW 2015, just south of Sydney’s CBD. It’s a few blocks east of the Green Square precinct on Botany Road. By car, head south on Botany Road from Edgeware Road in Zetland; turn east into Maddox Street (one block after Mitchell Road) for the main entrance. The on-site parking lot can accommodate 50+ cars, vans and production vehicles (rs.locationshub.com ) – a boon in this busy industrial area. Parking is typically free for visitors and crew (Park in the gated lot off Maddox St), but always obey signage and on-site instructions.
By train: Take the T8 (Airport & South Line) to Green Square Station. From there it’s roughly a 10-minute walk: exit station, head south on O’Riordan St, turn left onto Botany Rd, then right on Maddox St. The studio is down the block on your left. By bus: Several bus routes run along Botany Road. For example, Bus 370 (Bondi Junction–Maroubra/Olympic Park) and 308 (Circular Quay–Marrickville, via Central Station) stop at Mitchell Rd & Maddox St (moovitapp.com ), right by the corner of Maddox Street. A short stroll north from that bus stop brings you to box 42. Rideshare/taxi: Drop-off is convenient at the Maddox Street entrance. Larger film trucks often use the big roller door at the lot’s end. When arriving by Uber/Taxi, ask the driver to drop you at Sun Studios, 42 Maddox Street rather than any adjacent street.
Keep in mind that Botany Road can get congested in peak hours. If driving from the airport or Sydney Park area, consider taking Bourke Road (via St Peters) to avoid heavy traffic on Botany. For late-night departures, note that Sydney trains run until past midnight on weekends (bus 370 is a 24-hour service on weekends).
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival at 42 Maddox St, you’ll find a modern industrial workspace. The entrance opens into the Sun Studios showroom and offices, where lighting and camera equipment are displayed. This is also the reception point for guests. As a visitor, you may be asked to sign in or wear a visitor badge, particularly if a shoot is happening. Security is generally low-key – it’s a creative studio, not a nightclub – but do not wander into active production zones unescorted.
The atmosphere inside is clean and professional with a creative buzz. A standout feature is the central atrium: a tall, plant-filled space where natural light pours in from skylights. The atrium is often used as a gallery or lounge area for events (contactout.com ) (rs.locationshub.com ). Furnishings include comfortable client sofas, a green room, and even a small kitchen lounge area in the back (rs.locationshub.com ). During event setups, you might see backdrops, camera rigs and lights. For exhibitions, high ceilings and track lighting create a gallery feel. All studios and corridors have climate control, so the temperature is usually comfortable even on hot days.
Food and drink? Sun Studios runs an on-site catering café (operated by Sokraas Kitchen) serving coffee, tea, and light meals to staff and guests (contactout.com ). There are counter spaces and a catering kitchenette. Outside beverages and snacks from nearby cafes are generally permitted, but most people use the in-house cafe. Restrooms are standard and located at various points (ask staff if unsure). The entire venue is Wi-Fi enabled – Sun Studios provides free wireless Internet in common areas and studios (rs.locationshub.com ), which is handy for on-the-fly editing or checking emails. There’s no formal coat check; events are casual enough that most visitors simply hang coats on provided racks or leave them by the lounge.
Nearby Amenities
Though tucked in Alexandria’s light-industrial precinct, there are plenty of amenities nearby. For dining, Botany Road (a 5-minute walk away) has several cafes, sandwich shops and a couple of pubs. If you have time before an event, consider heading a bit further northwest to the Green Square area where there are trendy eateries and the hotel precinct. (Green Square has the Holiday Inn, Adina Apartments and other city hotels within a couple of minutes’ drive.) South of Maddox Street, on Bourke Road, you’ll find casual diners and a supermarket if you need refreshments.
If you need accommodation, the closest large hotels are around Green Square and Alexandria West. The Motel 428 Edgeware on Edgeware Road, and the mansion-style Alexandria Hotel on Gardeners Road, are within a couple of kilometers. Closer in, there’s Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites (Ibis Styles) on Green Square Lane for a high-end stay. For budget options, some hoteliers on Botany Road are only 5–10 minutes away by car. Late-night travel is convenient: Green Square Station connects to Sydney’s train network, plus a night bus runs on Botany Road on weekends.
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets 42 Maddox Street (Sun Studios) apart is its combination of heritage character and cutting-edge facilities . The venue seamlessly blends old and new: original brick walls and exposed timber beams coexisting with sleek white studios and high-tech gear. This gives a distinctive vibe beloved by photographers and filmmakers. Industry professionals often cite the light-filled atrium garden as a beautiful meeting and exhibition space – it feels unlike any other studio in Sydney (contactout.com ). This bespoke environment makes the venue ideal for creative events, as evidenced by its decade-long run of acclaimed exhibitions.
Moreover, Sun Studios’ role in the local creative scene adds to 42 Maddox St’s unique aura. It’s one of the only places in Sydney that combines photography education, gallery shows and full-service production facilities under one roof. For the local community, it has become a landmark of artistic collaboration. Over the years, many up-and-coming photographers have had their first big break here in Sun Studios events, giving the venue a reputation as a launching pad. In short, artists and audiences love 42 Maddox for its historic-industrial beauty and for being a welcoming hub where art and industry meet.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building is mostly level and accessible. The ground-floor parking lot leads to ramp-free entry. Studios and galleries are on one level, and at least one restroom is wheelchair-friendly. However, if you have specific mobility needs it’s wise to call ahead just to confirm (the staff can explain any step or lift).
What to Bring: Visiting an exhibition? Bring a printed or digital event invite if needed (though exhibitions are usually free and open). If you’re here for a shoot, bring your ID; professional shoots often require everyone to register. There’s no formal dress code – most people dress casually or ‘creative-professional’ (so jeans and a neat top are fine). Avoid wearing high heels on polished floors if you’ll be moving around a lot. As with any worksite, avoid big bags unless you need gear, and keep personal items on you. Note that smoking is not permitted inside the studios – there are only outside street areas for cigarettes.
Common Pitfalls: Don’t assume events run on exact schedule – timing can be fluid in a multi-studio space. Always arrive a little early (10–15 minutes) to find parking and get your bearings. If attending a public exhibition, expect some wandering during the show; it’s not a theatre with assigned seating, so arriving late is okay. For photography workshops or tours, book weeks in advance as they fill up quickly. Also, this is an active production environment: during photo shoots avoid touching equipment or straying into areas marked “Staff Only.”
Age and Conduct: There are no strict age limits – kids are welcome at public events, though they must be supervised. Since it’s an industrial studio, noisy toddlers might find it a long visit. The venue is family-friendly but professional – standards of behavior are those of a studio: respectful, no running or rowdiness. While there is no formal “security,” staff will ask anyone to leave if they’re disruptive.
Connectivity and Facilities: Feel free to use the complimentary Wi-Fi (ask for the password at reception or the café). Charging outlets are available by lounge areas. If you need a break, the Sun Studios café (with indoor and outdoor seating) is a convenient stop. And finally – because the space is indoors, you won’t need to worry about weather. Rain or shine, the photo studios are climate-controlled, so the show always goes on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets to attend events at 42 Maddox Street?
Most events at 42 Maddox St (Sun Studios) have free entry . For example, its annual photography exhibitions like “This Time It’s Personal” allow visitors to come without tickets (www.australianphotography.com ). Only specialised workshops or private functions charge fees, and those require advance booking. In short, check the event listing or Sun Studios announcements; general gallery-style shows are usually free to attend.
Where can I find tickets or more info for an event at 42 Maddox Street?
There is no box office at 42 Maddox St. To attend an event, visit Sun Studios’ official website or social pages for announcements. If tickets are needed, they’ll be sold online or by registration, not at the door. Free events typically require no RSVP; just drop in during advertised hours. For studio workshops or classes, follow the online booking link provided by the organisers. Direct queries via email or phone (found on Sun Studios’ site) are the recommended way to book.
How do I get to 42 Maddox Street, Alexandria by public transport?
The nearest train station is Green Square (T8 Airport/South Line), about a 10-minute walk from 42 Maddox St (www.colliers.com.au ). From the station, walk via O’Riordan St and Botany Rd to Maddox. Various buses run along Botany Rd – notably Bus 370 and 308 stop at Mitchell Rd @ Maddox St (moovitapp.com ). These buses run frequently and connect to CBD and Beach areas. If arriving by taxi or ride-share, simply request drop-off at “Sun Studios, 42 Maddox St, Alexandria.”
Is there parking available at 42 Maddox Street?
Yes. Sun Studios provides a private lot with space for roughly 50 cars and vans (rs.locationshub.com ). This on-site parking is accessed directly from Maddox Street and is usually free for guests and crew. Given the tight urban setting, it’s a rare convenience. Still, if it’s a major event night you may need to arrive a bit early to secure a spot. Street parking on surrounding roads is limited, so parking in the Sun Studios lot is recommended whenever possible.
What are the seating arrangements at 42 Maddox Street?
42 Maddox St has no fixed seating like a cinema or concert hall. It’s made up of open studios and gallery areas. For exhibitions or events, visitors simply stand, mingle or walk around. Occasionally, temporary chairs or benches might be brought in for seminars. If you need to sit, you can use the lounge chairs in the viewing area or stand at the atrium gallery. In short, plan for a casual open-space layout rather than rows of seats.
Can I bring or take photos and videos inside 42 Maddox Street?
Yes, photography and filming are generally welcome at Sun Studios, since it’s a professional photo/film complex. You can freely take pictures of the space and events (e.g. exhibitions). Just be sure not to interfere with ongoing shoots or clients. If you want to film or record for commercial purposes, it’s polite to ask permission first. For personal visits, simply respect others’ work. Given the venue’s focus, you’ll often see photographers snapping away here!
Is 42 Maddox Street wheelchair accessible?
Yes – the facility is on a single (ground) level with ramps at the entrance and wide doors. The parking lot leads directly to a level entry. Studios and common areas are spacious, and at least one restroom is wheelchair-friendly. While it’s an old building, Sun Studios has modernised it for accessibility. If in doubt, you can call ahead to ensure any specific needs are met, but in general 42 Maddox St is considered accessible to people with mobility aids.
Are there food and drink options at the venue?
Yes. There’s an on-site café/catering service run by Sokraas Kitchen for Sun Studios (contactout.com ). It serves coffee, tea and snacks (and can cater meals for shoots). Guests working on location or attending events can purchase refreshments there. In addition, kiosks and cafes on Botany Road are just a short walk away if you want more variety. Outside food items are usually allowed in the lounge areas, so you can step out for a meal if needed.
Is there Wi-Fi available at 42 Maddox Street?
Yes. Sun Studios provides free wireless Internet throughout the studios and common areas (rs.locationshub.com ). You may need to ask the staff (or check event info) for the password. The connection is generally reliable, so you can stream, share and upload photos on the spot if needed. This is convenient given the venue’s focus on visual media – many visitors make use of Wi-Fi for instant editing or checking images during shoots.
What is the capacity of 42 Maddox Street?
There’s no published “capacity” like a theatre, but the venue spans 2,400 m² (contactout.com ). Each studio can handle dozens of people (some up to ~300 m²), plus the atrium can accommodate a large gathering. For events like an exhibition, you could easily have a couple of hundred visitors moving through at once. Exact limits depend on event setup (standing room, equipment, etc.) and fire regulations. In general, it’s a very roomy industrial space, far larger than a café or small gallery.
What dates/times is 42 Maddox Street open to the public?
The studios themselves are normally open weekdays (Mon–Fri) during business hours (often ~8am–5pm) for registered shoots and staff. Public events like exhibitions may be open extended hours (even evenings or weekends). Always check the specific event’s schedule. There is no generic “open house” time. If you have a booking or registration (for a workshop, studio hire or expo), attend during the times listed on your ticket or invitation.
Can I bring children to 42 Maddox Street?
Yes – kids are welcome at family-oriented events. 42 Maddox St is generally open and relaxed, so minors can visit. For example, many photography exhibitions allow all ages. However, remember it’s a working studio space. Keep curious children under supervision around lighting, cables and equipment. If you’re attending a private shoot or workshop, check if there’s an age recommendation on the event info page.
