Open House 2014, a concept developed in London twenty two years ago which has now spread to cities across the world, will throw open the doors to some of the UK capital's most inspiring spaces and interiors this month. "Revealing", the theme of this year's Open House, intends to "shed light on issues that are relevant to local communities." In this way, the scheme hopes to examine how the built environment is evolving. Exploring the role of architects, engineers and contemporary design in revitalising places and spaces, the festival hopes to show above all "how good design can make London a more livable, vibrant and enjoyable city."
This year's Open House features a number of "imaginative conversions", such as Dingle Price’s House for a Painter, a conversion of a 20th century workhouse laundry building into a studio and residence for an artist and his family. Although more than 800 buildings will open their doors (for free) across London, highlights of the programme include:
- Revealing London’s iconic skyline and towers including The View from the Shard, 30 St Mary Axe (aka the Gherkin) and Citypoint
- London’s infrastructure revealed with the Institution of Civil Engineers - including engineering walks and site visits to major construction and engineering sites
- Eco, zero carbon and retrofit buildings, with the chance to talk to experts, see measures in action and discover how you can implement changes in your own home
- Speak with planners, architects and engineers on how they create successful buildings and cities
- Activities for kids and families, from architectural model-making to quiz trails as part of Open House Junior
- Explore the rich heritage of the river at countless riverside sites in 2014 as we team up with Totally Thames
- Archibus tour with Arriva and the London Transport Museum – win a place on an architectural whirlwind tour celebrating the Year of the Bus
- Photography competition in partnership with Airbnb, the Architects’ Journal and The Photographers’ Gallery
Open House 2014 will take place on the weekend of the 20th and 21st September. Find out more here, or read their FAQs.
