One of the defining traits of European cities is their multilayered architecture, where interventions from different epochs merge within shared urban spaces. This complexity invites reflection on how our values and lifestyles influence the built environment. European heritage is rich in contrasts—traces of radical transformations, wars and even imperial legacies coexist with principles of cooperation, equity and democracy. Yet, viewing heritage merely as a transcript of the past in today’s turbulent times oversimplifies its significance. While heritage is often considered timeless, each generation must rediscover its relationship with the elements that resonate most. Serving as an immense source of inspiration, heritage encourages us to reflect on what we are leaving for generations to come. Understanding and engaging with this legacy helps us ground our collective imagination of the future on a reliable foundation.

For the 2025 season, Open House Europe—a collaboration project among Open House festival organisers in 16 cities—invites people to explore European architecture through the shared theme of Future Heritage. All year round and across the continent, Open House events will offer a unique opportunity to experience living stories rooted in architectural heritage.

Architectural Heritage as Dialogue Between the Past and the Future of European Cities

Perceptions of the past are deeply intertwined with the notion of heritage. Which parts of history do we choose to preserve and highlight, and which remain contested? What drives us to define certain elements as valuable while others are overlooked, hidden or even removed? How does their significance evolve over time? Future Heritage does not shy away from difficult questions and instead invites exploration through buildings, public spaces and infrastructures often at the centre of heritage preservation debates. Each Open House festival will bring its local perspective and actors into a dialogue about the diverse voices and institutions that shape and protect our shared urban environments.

Future Heritage will also spotlight how contemporary architecture can address challenges such as urbanisation, climate change, defence against threats to democracy, and shifting technological and societal needs. All of them demand innovative approaches and techniques to preserving and adapting our surroundings. Thus, each architectural project requires a delicate balance between respecting traditions and local character while embracing adaptability and resilience in the face of today’s most pressing challenges. Could heritage and inclusive preservation of the built environment become a cornerstone of a more equitable European future—one that fosters a circular, localised economy, conserves energy and resources, and safeguards our shared memories and stories?

At its core, Future Heritage asks: Which practices of today will become tomorrow’s legacy? The stories, designs, and spaces we create now will shape how future generations understand their history and identity. By fostering dialogue and critical thinking between users and creators, Future Heritage aims to deepen our understanding of architecture’s role in building a shared European future.

The programme of the third season of Open House Europe

Open House Europe partner festivals will bring the Future Heritage theme to life by examining how architecture connects the past, present, and future of cities. Many will focus on the restoration and adaptation of historic buildings, looking at how these spaces evolve to meet contemporary needs. Other festivals will explore public infrastructure, educational spaces, and green urban areas of their cities, highlighting their role in shaping future communities. Guided tours in some festivals will introduce visitors to modernist landmarks, repurposed industrial sites, and innovative design solutions that balance preservation with progress. Discussions, exhibitions, and workshops will further explore the complexities of heritage, questioning what is valued, what is overlooked, and how decisions made today will define tomorrow’s architectural legacy.

Following last year’s theme, Accessibility and Inclusion, and with an aim to ensure broad participation, many festivals will continue or introduce sign language tours, tactile materials, and multilingual experiences, making architecture more accessible to all.

Future Heritage will be explored by 16 festivals across the continent. The third season of Open House Europe will kick off with Open House Athens on 5-6 April and Open House Slovenia on 11-13 April. You can explore all the upcoming festivals on the Open House Europe calendar and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date!