Open House Europe is a collaborative project between 15 European cultural organisations, including the Irish Architecture Foundation, with a shared vision of promoting architecture as a positive force for change. Together, we are facilitating a more inclusive discussion about architecture and emphasising its role in addressing important social and environmental issues.

As we enter the third year of this exciting collaboration, we are inviting experienced Open House Dublin volunteers to apply to participate in an international Volunteer Exchange programme with four peer festivals in 2025.

This is a unique opportunity to participate in Open House festivals in different cities across the continent. Exchange volunteers will experience the festival from within, exchange knowledge, and cross cultural boundaries. Dedicated to international learning and collaboration, the programme fosters connections between volunteers, enriching their understanding of architecture’s role in shaping communities.

By taking part in the Open House Europe Volunteer Exchange programme, you will gain new experiences, broaden your understanding of architecture, meet like-minded enthusiasts, and expand your knowledge of how the built environment responds to social and environmental challenges. This experience allows you to immerse yourself in local culture, discover a new city, engage with a vibrant Open House community abroad, and contribute to the successful running of the festival, building on your previous volunteering with Open House Dublin.

In 2025, experienced Open House Dublin volunteers can choose to apply for the following festivals:

• Open House Athens (5-6 April)
• Open House Slovenia (11-13 April), cities TBC
• Open House Roma (24-25 May)
• Open House Thessaloniki (22-23 November)

Eligibility:

You can participate in the Volunteer Exchange programme if

• You are over 18 years old.
• You are fluent in English.
• You have volunteered with Open House Dublin or another Open House Europe festival for at least 2 years. (Please apply through the festival where you have volunteered; we can only accept applications from Open House Dublin volunteers.)
• You are available on the specific dates of the selected Open House festival (as above).

Application and selection process:

Apply for the Volunteer Exchange through the online form.

You will be asked about your relevant experience and skills, motivation, and your two preferred cities for the exchange.

The closing date for applications is 25 February, 23:59 Irish time. Late applications will not be considered.

Applicants for the exchange programme will be shortlisted by Open House Dublin and may be invited to a short informal interview as part of the selection process. Successful applicants will be notified by mid-March, followed by a trilateral agreement with full terms and conditions.

Every Open House festival is a little bit different. You may be asked to participate as a steward or to assist in guiding tours, depending on your knowledge and skills. You may also be asked to take photographs or assist the festival’s organising team. You will have the opportunity to meet with the organisers online prior to your visit, and we will work to match your interests with their needs.

We will cover all travel, accommodation and subsistence.

This is the fourth and final Volunteer Exchange opportunity through Open House Europe.

Open House Europe is coordinated by Architektūros fondas in Vilnius and is co-funded by the European Union through Creative Europe.

Photo: Outside Brown Lighthouse, Open House Athens 2023. Photo by Nikos Simos.