Brisbane locals will have the rare opportunity to explore around 90 of the city’s most historic and architecturally unique buildings when they open their doors for the fifth annual
Held over two days on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 October 2014, Brisbane Open House promises to build on the success of last year’s event with 35 new buildings of historic and modern architectural importance added to the must-see list.
New buildings to the program promise a remarkable experience for those wanting to get behind the scenes including XXXX Brewery, The Gabba (Brisbane Cricket Ground), Port of Brisbane, Chapel of the Holy Spirit at St Francis Theological College, pdt architects and Torbreck (winner of the 2014 Queensland State Architecture Robin Gibson Award for Enduring Architecture).
Brisbane Open House is an initiative of the Queensland Government Architect in the Department of Housing and Public Works, the Brisbane Development Association and National Trust of Australia (Queensland), held annually in conjunction with World Architecture Day.
Queensland Government Architect Malcolm Middleton said the event allows people to explore the city’s unique built environment, history and its secrets.
“Brisbane Open House offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with some of Brisbane’s most loved and admired buildings – the rich architectural diversity of our city which people may not usually have the chance to explore,” Mr Middleton said.
Michelle Lee, President of the Brisbane Development Association said this year’s program offered something for everyone.
“Brisbane Open House’s diverse and fun program will appeal to the young and young at heart: our speaker series is now over four sessions with several influential and interesting presenters; our new Made in Brisbane program offers an insightful look into Brisbane based boutique makers and manufacturers; and the children’s program is filled with entertaining and engaging free activities as well as Grocon’s Great Cubby House Build supporting Kids Under Cover.”
Also on offer in 2014 is the ever-popular photo competition, guided walking tours of precincts and free concerts presented by Brisbane City Council’s Bands in Parks Initiative and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Brisbane Open House visitors will learn more about the participating buildings thanks to some of city’s most respected architects holding special guided tours.
Organisers are calling for volunteers to help with the guided tours. Last year more than 500 locals donated their time to Brisbane Open House, showing residents around Brisbane’s hidden gems.