_root.TextBody = "Joern Utzon desired a finish on the Podium and the Broadwalk that would conjure up images of earth and solidity, contrasting dramatically with the floating Shells of the roof structure. \r\rIn association with Concrete Industries, Utzon developed a cladding panel of reconstituted granite aggregate with a steel reinforced concrete backing. The panels were ultimately constructed by other contractors, but they retain many of the design principles set by Utzon.\r \rThe granite, quarried from the township of Tarana in New South Wales, was chipped within a specific size, maintaining a uniform look to the rough surface of the panels. The panels have a satin finish in order to show up the character of the stone. \r\rGranite panels can be found as both flooring and wall covering in most of the public spaces around the House, creating a flow between the interior and the exterior of the building.\r\rThe panels come in many shapes and sizes to suit their purpose. The large wall panels are 1.22 metres wide and have lengths of up to 9.1 metres. Over the openings to the venues on the western wall, the granite forms a triangular canopy as a focal entrance point.\r\rThe panels on the Broadwalk and the Concourse are rounded to prevent chipping. The gaps between the panels enable water to disperse very quickly in the event of rain, via the drainage system underneath. The water simply runs off the slabs, down the gaps, and disappears.\r";
