Open House Melbourne 2020

Overview

This July sees the return of another packed program from Open House Melbourne, even despite the current pandemic. If you're not familiar with the annual event, it opens up some of the city's most iconic buildings, new structures and urban environments for the public to explore and appreciate. And this year, it's all happening virtually. Eighty-eight buildings are included in this first-time digital program, which kicks off from July 16 and remains online until the end of August. Fire up that device and get ready to scope out architectural gems from all over the Melbourne region.

A highlight of the program will be the chance to take a virtual tour through the grand expanse of Studley Park's Villa Alba — an 1880s Italianate mansion bearing some of this country's most significant examples of late nineteenth century decoration.

Elsewhere, you can check out Australia's first truly contemporary mosque with a virtual visit to the Australian Islamic Centre, designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize–winning architect Glenn Murcutt. Or, catch a presentation on the fascinating construction of the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Or, peek inside the National Trust- and heritage-listed South Melbourne building that's home to The Australian Tapestry Workshop, featuring classic Victorian Free Gothic stylings by renowned local architect T.J Crouch.

An online exhibition and guided virtual tour explores the history and future of the Montague area, now part of the Fisherman's Bend redevelopment, while the 1893-built Tay Creggan building — long home to Strathcona Girls Grammar's Year 9 campus — will play host to its own digital tour, sharing stories and designs by current students.

Well-known structures like La Mama Theatre, Trades Hall, Lyon Housemuseum and Bunjil Place are just some of the many others opening their doors for virtual walk-throughs and close-up events over the coming weeks.

Villa Alba Museum by Russell Winnell

Top image: Australian Islamic Centre courtesy of AIC.