Our Vision

Open House aims to foster an appreciation and understanding of the value of architectural excellence and to showcase outstanding design.

Architecture and urban design have a huge influence on the quality of our lives. Yet we lack a common language to express our needs and aspirations for the quality of our buildings and public spaces.

Open House aims to:

  • influence the future shape of London by highlighting and promoting architectural excellence
  • help people understand architecture and design and the impact it has on broader social issues
  • involve Londoners of all ages and abilities in the development of strategies for a better built environment

We seek to enable Londoners to express their needs for the places where they live, learn, work and play, and to have the confidence to take part in shaping their environment. At the same time, we work closely with policy-makers, politicians, architects, planners and developers and others to ensure better communication and understanding between those who shape the city and those who use it.

The impact of good design is a better environment, stronger communities, ownership and pride in local area, and new financial investment. As a neutral and charitable organisation, Open House is aware that design alone cannot solve all of society’s problems, yet we believe that good design is one way of bringing change for the better. The fabric of our city speaks volumes about our values as a society – so to influence those who are creating London for present and future generations, Open House works directly with London’s communities to widen debate and deepen discussion.

If you are interested in supporting our work, please visit our Get Involved section.