Architecture, heritage, design, and innovation come alive this October as Sunshine Coast Open House 2025 invites you to step behind the doors of some of the region’s most remarkable spaces.
Running from 10–19 October, this free annual festival celebrates the buildings, places, and people that make the Sunshine Coast unique. From historic homesteads and artist studios to public landmarks and environmentally resilient homes, this year’s program is packed with opportunities to explore, learn, and be inspired.
The 2025 theme, Resilience, highlights how architecture and design respond to the Sunshine Coast’s coastal conditions, changing climate, and evolving communities — a timely focus in a region where the built environment plays a vital role in shaping the future.
With more than 30 sites to visit, there’s something for every taste and interest. A few must-sees include:
- Bankfoot House (1868) – the district’s oldest surviving residence, offering a rare glimpse into settler and First Nations history.
- Caloundra Lighthouses – guiding vessels since 1896 and offering panoramic coastal views.
- Alfredson’s Joinery – a beautifully restored 1930s industrial site, lovingly brought back to life by craftsman Al Guymer.
- Kijiji – an off-grid permaculture home in Noosa Heads that blends sustainability and design.
- Mundai Dja – a flood-resilient social housing project in Maroochydore showcasing future-focused community design.
SPOTLIGHT ON RESILIENCE
This year’s theme comes to life through a diverse range of homes and projects shaped by climate, place, and purpose:
- Bariya Rainforest House – nestled on a steep Obi Obi slope, blending seamlessly with the natural environment.
- Moffat Morphing House – a small-footprint coastal retreat built for flexibility and coastal living.
- Light Lane at Banya – redefining social housing through style, modularity, and sustainability.
- Wallumburn – a fire-resilient bushland home in Cooroibah built to withstand the region’s environmental challenges.
Celebrating Art, Gardens & Storytelling
In 2025, the program expands to shine a light on the connections between architecture, landscape, and creativity.
- Maroochy Regional Botanic Garden – hosting a dynamic mix of talks, exhibitions, and interactive workshops.
- Pan Pottery Studio & Moon Mountain Sanctuary – spaces where art, craft, and architectural stewardship come together.
- Noosa Open Studios – back with four curated art trails linking nearly 100 artists’ studios across the coast and hinterland.
Special Events: Talks, Tours & More
Forum Night: What is Home #2
📍 Coolum Civic Centre – Friday 10 October, 6–9pm
This ticketed evening will explore what “home” means in today’s world. Seven speakers from design, architecture, and lived experience will share personal stories and professional insights. Speakers include David Gole, Lynn Scott, Maggie Cairns, Jordache Gage, and others. This event is proudly supported by Inspirations Paint / Dulux.
Architectural Walks
Take a deep dive into the region’s built history with guided walking tours:
- Cooroy Lower Mill Precinct Walk – explore how a disused timber site was transformed into a vibrant cultural hub with urban designer Shaun Walsh.
- Moffat Beach Walking Tour – led by architect Roger Todd, discover the layers of history and coastal design shaping this beloved beachside town.
- Eumundi Streetscape Walk – with Josef Hextall from the Eumundi Museum, uncover stories behind heritage buildings and community spaces.
Plan Your Visit
With most buildings open access, you can drop in anytime during opening hours — but some special tours and events require bookings.
🗓 Bookings open Monday 22 September at 12pm.
Check out all Buildings here and Events here.
Stay Connected
Follow Sunshine Coast Open House for updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and highlights from this year’s program:
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Newsletter
#SCOH2025 | #SunshineCoastOpenHouse
