Get ready, architecture enthusiasts and curious minds alike—the Gold Coast Open House (GCOH) is back for 2025, and this year’s event promises to be one of the most exciting yet. Taking place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September, the festival invites you to discover some of the Gold Coast’s most intriguing and diverse buildings, from iconic heritage sites to innovative, cutting-edge designs. Whether you’re a local or an out-of-town visitor, the event offers an unparalleled chance to connect with the city’s architecture, culture, and the stories that have shaped its identity over time.

This year, the theme is resilience—fitting for a city that’s continuously adapting to both the challenges and opportunities presented by its coastal environment. GCOH will explore how architecture on the Gold Coast not only responds to the climate and coastal conditions but also reflects the innovative spirit of the community.

What Can You Discover?

Pink Hotel, Cooloongatta

From iconic landmarks to lesser-known gems, GCOH’s 2025 lineup spans the city from Coolangatta to Southport. Here are just a few highlights that you won’t want to miss:

1. Abedian School of Architecture, Bond University
   Designed by CRAB Studio (led by Sir Peter Cook and Gavin Robotham), this stunning academic building is an inspiring example of modern architecture. Discover it for yourself or take a guided tour on Saturday morning.

2. Captain Cook Memorial Lighthouse
   After a $6.5 million revitalisation, this historical landmark now blends maritime heritage with stunning coastal views and Indigenous cultural narratives. It’s a beautiful spot to connect with the region’s rich history.

3. The Pink Hotel, Coolangatta
   Known for its quirky retro vibe, the Pink Hotel has undergone a transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair, showcasing the Gold Coast’s unique aesthetic.

4. Kanooka House
   Recently awarded House of the Year at the 2025 Australian Institute of Architects Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Awards, Kanooka House is an outstanding example of sustainable coastal design. If you’re into contemporary architecture, this one’s for you.

5. Gold Coast Desalination Plant & Disaster & Emergency Management Centre
   A rare chance to see the critical infrastructure that keeps the city safe and supplied with clean drinking water. It’s a fascinating look at how the city has future-proofed its water and emergency systems.

Panel Discussions: Dive Deeper into Design and Sustainability

Griffith University

Beyond the building tours, GCOH 2025 also features a full day of panel discussions at Griffith University on Sunday 28 September. These discussions will cover a range of topics related to sustainability, urban design, and the future of architecture. Some key sessions include:

• Urban Sketchers Talks
  Whether you’re an urban sketching enthusiast or just curious about this growing movement, this session will bring together local and international artists to talk about capturing the essence of cities through sketching.

• Renewable Energy Retrofits – Savvy Solutions for Strata Living
  As more Australians look for ways to integrate clean energy into their homes, this discussion will explore practical strategies for retrofitting apartment buildings with renewable energy solutions.

• Reimagining Waste – Circular Design for a Sustainable Society
  What happens to the materials we discard in the construction industry? This session will explore how circular design can help transform waste into valuable resources for new projects.

• Designing for Multi-Generational Living
  As families become more diverse and multi-generational living becomes more common, this discussion will examine how homes can be designed to accommodate everyone—from young children to elderly relatives.

Walking Tours: Discover the Stories Behind the Buildings

The Spit

If you prefer to explore the Gold Coast on foot, GCOH has you covered. There are several architect-led walking tours that delve into the history, design, and cultural significance of various locations around the city. Some standout tours include:

• Coolangatta Heritage and Lighthouse Walk
  A two-hour guided tour that takes you from Point Danger to Greenmount, uncovering stories of lighthouses, WWII sites, surf lifesaving history, and more.

• Envi Micro Urban Village & Garden Terraces
  Led by architect Amy Degenhart, this tour will showcase Australia’s first micro-lot housing project, offering insights into sustainable urban density.

• Greenheart Robina Parklands Walking Tour
  Explore the first stage of the city’s expansive 257-hectare park, designed to promote sport, recreation, and connection with nature.

• Griffith University Biodiversity Gardens Walk
  A guided tour through a beautiful space featuring over 230 native plant species and showcasing sustainable landscaping and Indigenous cultural connections.

• The Spit Redevelopment
  A walk through one of the Gold Coast’s most-loved destinations, The Spit. This tour will highlight how inclusive design has transformed a popular public space.

Kanooka House

GCOH isn’t just about looking at buildings; it’s about exploring how design influences the way we live, work, and interact with the environment. It’s about understanding the stories that make our city unique and how resilience and innovation continue to shape the Gold Coast’s future. So mark your calendar for the weekend of 27–28 September, and get ready to explore the Gold Coast like never before.

Discover the 2025 program here