Architecture is never just about construction, it’s also about people.
Officially launching the 2025 Sunshine Coast Open House program Queensland Governor, Dr Jeannette Young said that when doors are open, stories are shared.
The program provides the chance to celebrate the people, places and buildings that make the region so unique, Dr Young said at Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden.
“This is not only for professionals but for the many community members who take great pride in the unique character and heritage of the Sunshine Coast.
“Open House offers the rare opportunity to step through doors that are usually closed, to explore the stories and buildings, the landscapes – from inside out.’’
Now in its eighth year on the Sunshine Coast and Noosa, Open House runs from October 10 to 19. It is an invitation to explore the spaces that shape our region, while celebrating buildings that adapt to climate, honour heritage and inspire community.
The festival culminates in the main Open House weekend on October 18 and 19, offering rare access to more than 30 properties.
This year’s theme, “resilience”, runs through every element of the program – from heritage walks and garden tours to new builds that showcase sustainable design and local character.
“The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most dynamic and diverse regions,’’ Dr Young said. “It balances rapid population growth with strong environmental and lifestyle values.
“It honours heritage while embracing innovation, it fosters community life and economic diversification.
“This year’s program highlights how the region responds to challenges – inviting us to examine the relationship between design and resilience … how we shape the built environment and how it, in turn, shapes our communities.
“Resilience is not an abstract ideal, it’s a necessity.
“It demands architecture and design that acknowledge the region’s uniquely challenging environment, adaptability, heritage, community and change.
“And it encourages, through thoughtful reflection, on how our buildings, old and new, contribute to the Sunshine Coast identity, lifestyle and sustainability.
acknowledge the committee, the many building owners, volunteers and those who make this event possible
“I hope you get into places you never thought you would, linger in conversations, and test your assumption of what architecture is or can be.
“Consider the vital role it plays in shaping the future of this region.’’
Noosa Shire Council mayor Frank Wilkie said Open House was an initiative Noosa has supported over many years and seen it go from strength to strength.
“In Noosa we recognise the synergy between our incredible natural environment and built environment, and how it plays a critical role in shaping identity and sense of place.
“From sweeping beaches and tranquil rivers to lush hinterland, the natural environment is the greatest asset of this region.
“We have chosen to build mindfully and with a deep respect for working with, and not against, nature.
“Noosa design principles are endorsed and respected within the community. They are why our streets curve with the land, why our buildings sit gently within in the landscape, and why our public spaces feel open and inviting.
“Open House provides an opportunity to celebrate the hard work, the planning and sensitivity that has gone into creating our region’s unique architectural character.’’
This has included shared heritage and village precincts, an approach to building in a sometimes challenging sub-tropical climate while balancing nature and people, heritage and innovation, growth and preservation.
Running in conjunction with Open House, the Open Studio art trail is celebrating its 10th year in Noosa. It is where artists open their hearts as well as their galleries and studios.
WHAT IS HOME?
Popular, enlightening and entertaining when it was launched last year, What Is Home is a community event exploring how we live, build and belong.
To be held Friday 10 October, from 6pm at Coolum Civic Centre, it asks: “What does home mean to you?’’
An inspiring and heart-felt event, it is where a selection of speakers from different backgrounds and perspectives talk about what home means to them.
In a world where the idea of home is shifting across generations, cultures, and circumstance, this gathering invites guests to reflect, connect, and reimagine what home truly means.
Building on the success of last year’s forum, this year brings fresh voices and new insights to the conversation. Whether you’re curious, passionate, or simply enjoy a fun night out, this is an evening not to be missed.
SPACES AND PLACES
Open House sites in Noosa include Noosa Regional Gallery, Noosa Regional Library, Halse Lodge, Cooroy Lower Mill Precinct and Library, Cooroy Butter Factory art centre, Pomona Railway Gallery, Alfredson’s Joinery at Cooran and Pomona’s Majestic Theatre.
This is together with an array of behind-the-scenes tours and private architecture.
Bookings for building tours and events are open by visiting sunshinecoastopenhouse.com.au
