Open House Melbourne seeks stories of the city

The annual Open House Melbourne Weekend celebrates the value of design by inviting the public into buildings, places and spaces across the city and inspiring conversations about the future of the metropolis.

Founded in 2008, the program takes place annually in the last weekend of July, presenting open buildings, tours, talks and events in collaboration with architects and designers, building custodians, community organisations and creative practitioners. This year's themed weekend focuses on sharing Stories of the City.

"In Melbourne, every building, street and public place tells a unique story," the Open House Melbourne website reads. "Shaped by its transformation over time and the diverse communities that live here, the city is more than its bricks and mortar - the city is about people and place. The stories of our city are embedded in its urban landscapes and the people who live, work and play here."

Open House Melbourne invites submissions from organisations or individuals, including building owners or custodians, design practices, and community groups, who have stories to share from locations across the city and its suburbs. The stories can be personal or collective, look to the past or to the future.

"We want to hear stories that connect people with the city's past and present, uncovering the narratives that have shaped Melbourne's identity," the website reads.

Submissions may take the form of open access to buildings or building tours, walking or site tours, workshops, panel discussions, talks, films or exhibitions. Most programs will operate between 9 am and 6 pm over Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July as open access, however Open House Melbourne offers the option of pre-booked slots for limited capacity spaces or timed tours, as well as partially programming over Friday 25 July.

Applicants need to allow building access for a minimum of six hours across the weekend and/or accommodate a minimum capacity of 50 people.

Expressions of interest are due by Friday 21 February and can be made online.