What is Open House Perth?
Open House Perth is part of the global Open House phenomenon, where millions of people worldwide participate in celebrating architecture, design, and urban environments. The event is not just a local attraction but part of a larger movement that encourages communities to take pride in their city’s past, appreciate its present, and look optimistically towards its future. Deputy Chair Commissioner Gaye McMath emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, “Open House Perth is part of a worldwide Open House phenomenon, with millions of citizens taking pride in their past, appreciating the present, and looking optimistically towards their urban future.” This will be the eighth consecutive year that Open House Perth showcases the finest architecture, design, and urban spaces, solidifying its place as a key cultural event in the city.What to Expect at Open House Perth 2024
According to Carly Barrett, the Creative Director of Open House Perth, the City of Perth remains at the heart of the event. She encourages Western Australians and visitors alike to explore the Perth CBD during the Open House weekend. Barrett highlights how the event is a great opportunity to support local businesses and engage with the city's architecture and design in a way that is both interactive and enjoyable. One of the standout features of Open House Perth is the access it provides to historical and architecturally significant buildings. This year, one of the highlights will be Barracks Arch, where small, guided historical tours with Heritage Perth will allow visitors to climb and explore the structure. These tours will be available from 10 am to 5 pm on both 16 and 17 November, with local historians and iCity Kiosk volunteers on hand to enhance the experience.Civic Visions Exhibition at Council House
Another major attraction this year is the Civic Visions | Council House 1954-1963 exhibition. This exhibition revisits the era when Council House was constructed and provides insights into the architectural competition that led to its modernist design. Designed by architects Jeffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, Council House was commissioned as part of the preparations for the 1962 British Empire and Commonwealth Games. Council House, although only partially completed at the time of the games, marked a turning point in Perth's architectural history with its distinct modernist style. It was the first building in Perth to feature window walling and included sunbreakers arranged in a T-shaped motif, adding to its unique aesthetic. The exhibition showcases a variety of furnishings, photographs, objects, and artwork that tell the story of this iconic building. The Civic Visions exhibition will be open to the public on the ground floor of Council House from 16 to 17 November, between 10 am and 5 pm, as part of Open House Perth. Additionally, the exhibition will remain open from 7 November 2019 to 17 January 2020, providing an extended opportunity to explore this piece of Perth’s architectural history.The Importance of Acknowledging Traditional Owners
It is essential to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the land on which Council House stands. The City of Perth acknowledges the traditional owners of the region, the Whadjuk Nyoongar people, and their connection to the Swan Coastal Plains. The city’s architecture, including Council House, stands as a reminder of both its modern progress and the rich cultural heritage that has shaped the area.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Open House Perth
1. When is Open House Perth taking place this year?
Open House Perth will be held on 16 and 17 November 2024.
2. What is the Open House Perth festival about?
Open House Perth is a free two-day event celebrating architecture, design, and the built environment. It invites the public to explore buildings and spaces in Perth that are typically not accessible to the general public.
3. How many destinations are included in this year’s Open House Perth event?
This year, there are 53 destinations within the City of Perth included in the Open House Perth event.
4. What is the global significance of Open House Perth?
Open House Perth is part of the global Open House movement, which celebrates architecture and urban design in cities worldwide. It allows citizens to appreciate their city’s architectural history and look forward to future developments.
5. Who is the Deputy Chair Commissioner of Open House Perth, and what did they say about the event?
Gaye McMath is the Deputy Chair Commissioner of Open House Perth. She remarked that the event allows citizens to take pride in their city’s past while looking optimistically toward the future.
6. How long has Open House Perth been running?
Open House Perth has been running for eight consecutive years.
7. Who is the Creative Director of Open House Perth, and what did they encourage people to do?
Carly Barrett is the Creative Director of Open House Perth. She encouraged Western Australians and visitors to explore the Perth CBD and support local businesses during the event.
8. What special opportunity does Open House Perth offer for visitors during the weekend?
Visitors can enjoy guided historical tours of Barracks Arch, a significant historical structure, and explore other unique spaces not usually open to the public.
9. What are the timings for the guided historical tours at the Barracks Arch?
The guided historical tours at Barracks Arch will run from 10 am to 5 pm on both 16 and 17 November.
10. What exhibition is being showcased at Council House as part of Open House Perth?
The exhibition Civic Visions | Council House 1954-1963 will be showcased, revisiting the construction and architectural history of Council House.
11. What major event influenced the construction of Council House in the 1960s?
The 1962 British Empire and Commonwealth Games played a major role in spurring the construction of Council House.
12. What architectural features made Council House a modern landmark in Perth?
Council House was the first building in Perth to feature window walling and sunbreakers arranged in a T-shaped motif, marking a turning point in the city's architectural landscape.
13. What cultural significance does Council House hold for the Whadjuk Nyoongar people?
Council House is built on land that holds great cultural and historical significance for the Whadjuk Nyoongar people, the traditional custodians of the Perth region.