The annual architecture festival celebrating design includes many new events – all inspired by its theme of Future Heritage …
Photograph: Clooneva by ALWA Architects. Simon Menges and Nino Tugishi.
Ireland’s largest festival of architecture, organised by the Irish Architecture Foundation (IAF) and officially launched by Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, starts on October 11 with a programme of over 200 free events. “For two decades, this festival has opened doors, sparked curiosity, and inspired people to connect with the stories and spaces that shape our city and county. It is a powerful celebration of civic pride and cultural heritage.”
Celebrating its twentieth year with the theme of “Future Heritage”, Open House Dublin invites people to explore how the design of the built environment, in Dublin and beyond, can shape a better world for generations to come. It starts with Open House Junior, a weekend for children on October 11-12 with creative workshops challenging children to envision a future city, plus family-friendly tours of iconic sites such as Casino Marino, Glasnevin Cemetery and Goethe Institute.
Open House continues until October 19 with exhibitions and guided tours of landmark buildings, outdoor spaces, private homes and architects’ studios. Some must-visit events include a tour of The Masonry – Iconic Offices, one of Dublin’s most striking workplace redevelopments, showcasing the adaptive reuse of historic fabric with modern office design.
Guests can also explore the coastal Skerries Library where architecture blends heritage and community use, and an architectural tour of the contemporary Ballyogan Library, designed as a civic space with light-filled interiors.
In Tallaght, visitors can peep inside the Innovation Square Apartments – a new residential scheme demonstrating compact design that balances density with quality living.
There’s also a guided tour and talk of the new Smashing Times – Architecture and Activism Centre for the Arts and Equality in Sandycove, exploring how architecture and the arts intersect with activism to inspire social change.
Another new landmark to explore is The Lark Concert Hall, a cultural landmark in Balbriggan, celebrated for its role as a hub for music and community. A further highlight is the Sean O’Casey Community Centre, a civic and cultural hub that combines theatre, learning and social services under one roof.
While you’re in the vicinity, check out the newly opened Moxy Dublin Docklands, a bold new addition to the skyline, noted for its playful experiential design.
