What we do

To achieve its goals, Open House has developed an approach that focuses on offering opportunities to:

  • Learn by experiencing and exploring exemplars of excellent architectural design
  • Build understanding and knowledge of the importance of high-quality design
  • Express views, for example through Open House campaigns, events, action research projects, opinion polls and publications
  • Use knowledge to affect policy and practice, bringing about change and making a positive impact on the shape of our city

Building on 16 years of success, our work programmes are shaped by our three main target audiences:

  • Engaging the general public – opening doors for all Londoners to experience and learn about the architecture of the capital’s most interesting and significant landmarks
  • Learning for young Londoners – providing architectural education for students in London’s schools; involving London’s young people in the design of spaces and places
  • Advocating good design amongst decision-makers – working with local authority officers and councillors, regeneration professionals and developers to advocate for good design throughout the city. This includes policy and decision making related to art in public spaces

The Organisation

Open House is run by a small core team assisted by core volunteers.

Trustees

Trustees of the charity are all involved in or working in architecture and design:

  • Eva Jiricna OBE RIBA
  • Fred Manson Hon OBE
  • Jane Priestman OBE, HonFRIBA
  • Lady Marina Vaizey

Supporters at Large

The board is an influential advisory group with a passion for architecture: 

  • Rt Hon. Nicholas Raynsford MP, Chair
  • Keith Clarke, Chief Executive, Atkins
  • John Smith, Chief Executive, BBC Worldwide
  • David Curley, formerly Director, UBS Bank
  • Baroness Jo Valentine, Chief Executive, London First
  • Prof. Rick Trainor, Vice-Principal, King's College London
  • Nick Forwood, Marketing Director, Skanska Communities

 

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