Perhaps today, more than ever, people need time and space to gather, debate and discuss what Dublin is now and what it might next become. For the Irish Architecture Foundation, Open House Dublin is our invitation, open to all, to hold a mirror to the county and city and together face what we see. I am certain this year, at our 19th edition, thousands of people of all ages will go on tours, experiencing Dublin’s architectural marvels and triumphs, past and present; thousands more will bear witness to the work of strong, diverse, communities, champions of their place, who continue to be the foundations upon which the very best of Dublin is built. At a time of division and difference, this festival of architecture is a chance to unite, to go behind the scenes, to get under the skin, to read Dublin beyond the headlines, to hear some true stories, and to pull up a chair and be heard at the table. From the runway to the greenway, to the harbour to the home, I hope you all join us at this year’s Open House Dublin.
The IAF has a role to advocate for the highest quality, most sustainable built environment and to empower people to find their own voice and to play their own part in the formation and care of the built world around them. It is a role we take seriously. It is a role that drives the IAF forward.
Support us by becoming a Friend of the IAF and learn more about the work we do at http://www.architecturefoundation.ie
All Open House events are Free of charge. Our programme is a mix of guided tours and events that need to be pre-booked on the website and guided tours and events which are open for you to join at dedicated times over the weekend.
Booking for pre-book tours opens 9am 19 September. For tours with very limited places you may be asked to pay a ‘no show’ fee when booking. We introduced this fee as the majority of Open House events are hosted by people and organisations voluntarily and there is high demand for places. We want to ensure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to attend our events. You will not be charged this fee once you cancel your places at least 48hrs in advance of your tour/event. We realise however that providing payment details is not always possible so if you have any issues with this whatsoever please contact bookings@archtiecturefoundation.ie and we will assist with your booking.
Please be respectful and kind to all Open House Dublin staff and volunteers. Remember this is a free festival which depends on the incredible generosity, passion and experience of all our volunteer stewards, guides, architects, building owners and visitors.
Choose the IAF Friends Plan that suits you and enjoy the benefits of being part of one of Ireland’s most exciting and original cultural organisations. Or spread the love and give the gift of IAF Friendship, and inspire your friends and family with the gift of a whole year of unique IAF experiences.
The Irish Architecture Foundation is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland, Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage and the Office of Public Works.
We are part of an exciting collaboration project co-funded by the European Union. Open House Europe is a cooperation project that connects different Open House festival organisers across Europe and enables their collaboration and knowledge exchange. By encouraging and promoting an interest in architecture among various audiences, Open House Europe helps residents gain new perspectives on their local surroundings and invites them to envision the shared future of European architecture.
Annual Theme
Throughout the year, different local Open House events across Europe respond to a common Annual Theme that highlights the challenges faced by society. For 2024 this theme is Access and Inclusion
Annual Summit
Once a year, the Open House community, architecture enthusiasts and professionals gather at the Annual Summit to reflect on the Annual Theme and yearly achievements. The next Annual Summit will be hosted by the IAF at Dublin Castle in January 2025.
Volunteer Exchange Programme
Open House Europe enables volunteers to travel between partner organisations and build their experience by helping to implement different local Open House events. Applications for the 2025 Volunteer Exchange programme will open in March 2025.
Visual Stories Competition
Each year, visitors and participants to Open House Dublin are encourage to capture their experiences of the festival and to enter the Visual Stories competition.
Learn more about the Open House Dublin architecture festival and our impact in 2023
