Every year, London’s Open House weekend is one of the capital’s most hotly in-demand architecture events, with queues known to be forming outside well-known buildings that are otherwise closed to the general public and lucky visitors getting a sneak peak of new private houses and exclusive offices left, right and centre.
There are always the much-loved classics, often back by popular demand, such as 30 St Mary Axe (a.k.a. the Gherkin), but every year, we equally eagerly look forward to getting our chance to visit the new kids on the block – the additions that come from the past year’s architectural crop. This year is no exception; Open House London, running on the 17-18 September, will be boasting a striking 200 or so brand new buildings to its growing list. Highlights include the recently renovated, Brutalist Salters Hall in central London and a competition to win a visit to the top of ArcelorMittal Orbit, in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Private houses are also represented in abundance: from expertly handled renovations, such as Archmongers’ Clock House, to home extensions, such as Bureau de Change’s Folds, and new builds, like 31/44 Architects House in Lewisham. There is plenty to choose from if you’re looking for inspiration.
With an impressive total of more than 750 buildings of all shapes and sizes opening their doors to their discerning guests – topped by a free programme of walks, engineering and landscape tours, cycle rides and experts’ talks - this year’s annual architectural celebration will no doubt be as big and bold as ever. A new and revamped guide to the weekend’s offerings is also available to help you navigate this September’s rich pickings.
King's Gate (and the Zig Zag Building), Victoria, (2015)
Clock House, (2015)
Bruno Court (29135)
Airbnb Headquarters (2016)
Alphabeta office building by RHE Architecture (2015).
ArcelorMittal Orbit (2011)
Bevin Court (1954)
Broadway Market Mews (2016)
Camberwell Library (2016)
Dartmouth Row (2016)
Folds (2015)
Godson Street by Edgley Design (2016).
House in Lewisham by 31/44 Architects (2016).
The Institution of Structural Engineers by Hugh Broughton Architects (2016).
Chisenhale Primary School Elevated Playground (2016)
Salters' Hall by Basil Spence, refurbished (1976 / 2016)
The Makers House (2016)
The Yard House by Tuckey Design (2015).
Y:Cube, YMCA Mitcham by Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners (2015)
Information
Open House London runs on the 17-18 September. For more information visit the website
-
Finnish Design Shop has unveiled an interiors collection inspired by the modernist art of Helene SchjerfbeckThe collection’s serene colour palettes and refined finishes draw directly from Schjerfbeck’s paintings, translating her Nordic modernist sensitivity into contemporary objects
-
Lose track of time at a retro-futuristic listening bar in MelbourneLB’s Record Bar is a cinematic sanctuary designed for lingering and listening
-
A revived public space in Aberdeen is named Scotland’s building of the yearAberdeen's Union Terrace Gardens by Stallan-Brand Architecture + Design and LDA Design wins the 2025 Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award
-
A revived public space in Aberdeen is named Scotland’s building of the year
Aberdeen's Union Terrace Gardens by Stallan-Brand Architecture + Design and LDA Design wins the 2025 Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award
-
A refreshed 1950s apartment in East London allows for moments of discoveryWith this 1950s apartment redesign, London-based architects Studio Naama wanted to create a residence which reflects the fun and individual nature of the clients
-
In this Cotswolds home, drama meets minimalismCotswolds home Hiaven house, with interiors designed by McLaren Excell, is a perfect blend of contemporary chic and calm, countryside drama
-
David Kohn’s first book, ‘Stages’, is unpredictable, experimental and informativeThe first book on David Kohn Architects focuses on the work of the award-winning London-based practice; ‘Stages’ is an innovative monograph in 12 parts
-
Find solace in the forest at this expansive treehouse retreat in DorsetFor sale for the first time, a treehouse, Mallinson’s Woodland Retreat, is a tribute to the skill of designer and master craftsman Guy Mallinson
-
Modernist Scotland explores the country’s impressive legacy of contemporary architectureA new book, Modernist Scotland, delves into the art and ambitions of the International Style in post-war Scotland, presenting 150 projects that typify an age of optimism and innovation.
-
100 George Street is the new kid on the block in fashionable MaryleboneLondon's newest luxury apartment building brings together a sensitive exterior and thoughtful, 21st-century interiors
-
Take a tour of Retrofit House, the live showcase inspiring sustainable homebuildingRetrofit House, a showcase for residential redesign using biomaterials and environmentally smart methods, opens in Birmingham, UK, spearheaded by Civic Square, Dark Matter Labs and Material Cultures; we paid it a visit
