Open House Dublin 2011 announces theme

Open House Dublin 2011 has adopted the theme “the architecture of change”, exploring how good design can be a catalyst for change and positively touch all our lives: from large scale master planning to small but skilful interventions in residential design. This is the sixth annual Open House Dublin 2011, and takes place from 7 to 9 October 2011.

Curated by Dr Sandra O’Connell, this year’s programme once again gives the public a unique opportunity to explore the city in all its dimensions, with tours of new city quarters – such as the Point Village and its destination Gibson Hotel (Scott Tallon Walker Architects) – and visits to delightful architect-designed homes across the city – from bespoke homes like Hedge House by GKMP Architects to skilful red brick conversions such as Three into Two house in the Liberties by Brian O’Brien of Solearth Ecological Architecture. The programme will also have a strong focus on the work of young and emerging practices, taking small budgets to big effects and showing great innovation. Historic gems include architectural tours of the Residence of the Embassy of France in Ballsbridge, a wonderful new addition this year, and a fresh focus on one of our Georgian favourites, North Great Georges Street, with restorations and renovations open to visit for the first time.

Open House Dublin 2011 also marks the 20th anniversary of the Temple Bar Framework Plan 1991, which has transformed the south city centre, with a special series of tours and events. It will also explore the work of Herbert G. Simms, who changed the face of Dublin city with his groundbreaking social housing schemes in the 1930s and ‘40s. Heavily influenced by what was happening in Amsterdam at the time, many of the buildings have fine rounded corners and brick detail. To this day, the quality of the design and materials means that they ‘work’ better as social housing, and indeed surpass much of what was built since in the city.

henrietta_place_corner_lge

“This year’s Open House will give a voice to the buildings, places and streets of Dublin City, elucidating how good design – both historic and contemporary – touches all our lives and can bring about positive change”, says Curator Dr Sandra O’Connell. All Open House Dublin buildings have been selected for their architectural quality and innovation, with many being award-winners.

As well as building tours, Open House Dublin 2010 includes Open House Junior, a series of creative and lively events to enable young participants to play architect for a day; and Open Space walking, cycling and boat tours to explore the spaces between buildings. Architecture will meet literature, and buildings will meet characters, in a series of specially curated events to celebrate Dublin’s new status as UNESCO City of Literature.