Melbourne Open House

Melbourne Open House is a free annual event where you have the rare opportunity to discover the wealth of hidden design, architectural, engineering and historic gems in various Melbourne places and buildings.

It unlocks the doors to more than 70 incredible buildings, and lovers of Melbourne can find out, soak up and become engaged with what lies behind these great contemporary, historic and sustainable structures and Melbourne places.

You can get a glimpse into Melbourne’s significant buildings, hidden roof top gardens and subterranean infrastructure – each reflecting Melbourne's fascinating past and its rapid cultural, commercial and industrial development.

It gives us the opportunity to understand and appreciate what makes our city tick, how design is evolving, and perhaps how you can contribute to creating a better world.

Melbourne Open House runs over a weekend in winter, during the Melbourne Design Festival. There are public talks by the building’s designers, soundwalks, tours and a Kids program.

How to get the most out of the Open House Weekend

There is a list of open buildings, building tours and opening times on the Melbourne Open House website. There will also be an Information Hub in City Square, corner of Swanston and Collins Streets, during the weekend. For a comprehensive list and information it is a good idea purchase a program from them.

You won’t be able to see everything! If you are managing to see 6 buildings per day you are doing well. To get the most out of the weekend, its best to plan ahead, and decide which buildings you really want to see.

Check if there are tours offered and when. A few selected buildings require you to book ahead. With the more popular buildings you can expect some queues and you might be better off to get there during the beginning of the day. Remember to be flexible, have a backup plan, in case it turns out to be too crowded at a particular building on your list.

To get involved and share your unique way of seeing your city, take photos on the day and enter the Open House photography competition.