Helping the capital's residents connect with the architectural fabric of their city is the chief purpose of this weekend's Open House Dublin, writes Rebecca Knowles.
Dublin has thrown open its doors as the city's iconic structures, historic interiors and cutting-edge contemporary architecture are being showcased in a free event this weekend organised by the Irish Architecture Foundation.
After a successful run last autumn, Open House Dublin 2007 comprises nearly 80 sites and tours located throughout the city centre.
The programme's theme of "the Living City" calls for seeing the homes, workplaces, administrative centres and public spaces that are part of the day-to-day existence of Dubliners "up close, and in a fresh and exciting way", according to Dr Sandra O'Connell, curator of the programme.
Beyond the appeal of gaining access to private residences decorated in high style, the event is meant to provide insight into the ways in which architects meet the particular challenges of city living, and how architecture is adapting to meet the increasingly "green" interests of builders and buyers.
"To understand the architecture, you have to experience it," says O'Connell. "There are so many details worth having pointed out by the experts. One structure that has been debated quite a bit already is the Palace Street Offices on Dame Street. We want to inform opinions so that people can make up their minds knowing a bit about why things are done a certain way."
Attendees can take in the view from the roof terrace of Ireland's first skyscraper, Liberty Hall; visit otherwise off-limit areas in Dublin Civic Offices such as the fascinating traffic control room; enjoy a tour of Croke Park guided by the architects behind its design; and see the former Guinness printing building in its new incarnation as the Digital Depot, home to the stylish offices of digital media companies, to name just a few.
Sustainable living in Temple Bar's West End will be featured in a building tour new to the list, and eco-friendly structures the Daintree Building on Camden Street and the Green Building on Crow Street will be open for viewing for a second year.
Additionally, a collection of walking, cycling and boat tours entitled "Open Space" will ensure that Dublin's waterways, streets and parks are equally appreciated.
Dublin historian Pat Liddy will guide two walking tours of Temple Bar, while others will explore Smithfield, the Italian Quarter and the Blessington Canal Basin. Those keen for a river voyage can see the Dublin Docklands by boat, and cyclists can pedal along a tour of Phoenix Park highlighting its historical, cultural and social significance.
THE OPEN HOUSE concept began in London 15 years ago, and organisers there have aided in Dublin's planning, says O'Connell. However, she believes Dublin's compactness makes the event particularly user-friendly.
"You can get to see quite a lot if you plan it out," she says. "We've intentionally clustered buildings based on their locations. In years to come we'd like to include sites further from the city centre, but as it stands now, Open House makes for a very walkable experience."
With more than 10,000 people taking part in 2006, organisers made particular efforts this year to add venues and schedule multiple tours at popular locations in order to accommodate large crowds.
Parents with young ones in tow would do well to include a stop at The Ark on Eustace Street. The structure houses Europe's first custom-built cultural centre for children, and includes an indoor theatre, outdoor stage, a gallery and workshops. Backstage areas will be part of regular tours commencing at 10am today. Also today, Dubliners secretly harbouring thespian ambitions can experience the feeling of being centre stage - minus an audience - at the Abbey Theatre. The recently refurbished main auditorium will be on display as well.
Connecting the public with its architecture remains the primary role of Open House Dublin, and that of the Irish Architecture Foundation, says director Nathalie Weadick. Having a public actively engaged with its built environment is crucial, she notes, particularly given the growing trend towards urban dwelling.
"By the year 2030, more than 70 per cent of the population will be living in cities," says Weadick. "Cities, especially capitals, serve as amazing symbols of the country. We want to use the event to involve as many people as possible in Dublin's architecture, and we want the conversation to continue. It doesn't just end after this weekend."
Certain events require pre-booking. See www.architecturefoundation.ie/openhouseor call 01-6708620 for details. There is an Open House Dublin information desk at the Temple Bar Cultural Information Centre, 12 East Essex Street, Dublin 2.