Gold Coast Open House 2018

Overview

The Gold Coast might be known for its sandy beaches, sizeable array of shopping strips and more than a couple of theme parks, but beyond all that lurks plenty of interesting and architecturally significant buildings. Luxe houses, towering residential buildings, historic theatres, the worlds first sand bypass system, a bathing pavilion that has been around for more than 80 years... the list goes on.

It's a side of the Goldie most of us never ponder, and it's on display come Saturday, October 27. That's when Open House hits the sunny tourist spot, with 39 places welcoming anyone who'd like to take a sticky beak — and four walking tours shining a light on Mudgeeraba's heritage, Southport's art deco buildings, the landscape of the Federation Walk near Sea World, and all of the ins and outs of Pacific Fair.

Remember your childhood dreams of getting to run rampant in a department store after hours? Or your grown-up version, involving IKEA? Think of this as a more realistic version, as well as a way to satisfy your architectural and design curiosity. As well as touring an array of the coast's top spaces, the program includes a free film and panel night on Saturday, October 20, exploring mid-century American and 60s Australian architecture.