Public Realm

Focusing on buildings is only one part of Open House’s work. Just as much as buildings, our streets, squares and parks define the experience of the city and of the neighbourhoods where we live. Thinking more holistically about these places with all involved – from those initiating the
projects, such as developers or public sector clients, to those creating and designing
them – is part of Open House’s remit.

Cultural meaning and identity affects the experience of public spaces as much as design. Current projects such as the Mayor’s Great Spaces and the Olympic Park and its legacy underline this emphasis. Open House’s research programmes and professional forums examine our spaces from the outside in, looking at how they affect our behaviour and the city’s cultural identity, to influence policy and raise debate for new developments and places of change.

My City Too interviewingWorking with young people across London, our My City Too! programme has evidenced what they
want from the places they inhabit: from their function, design and quality to the role of public
art. Bringing together artists, architects, developers, policy-makers and others, our Art in the Open
initiative advocates a more inspirational environment for London. As London’s independent advisor on art in the public realm, it focuses on themes of common interest such as light, commemoration and celebration, and urban change.

Together our initiatives reflect our belief that public space only benefits from more inclusive creative thinking across professional disciplines, generations and perspectives. At a time of financial uncertainty Open House’s aim is to show the continued value of our public spaces and the importance of creativity in these diverse dialogues to affect London’s everyday experience.

Corina, 15, My City Too! Young Ambassador:
“It’s true that changes in London’s spaces
need to be for the good of everyone, so
everyone’s views need to be taken into account,
including young people. One day we will be
the ones living and working in the city!”

 

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