Jennifer Pittorino
Open House Melbourne will be returning to Hobsons Bay later this month, offering a rare glimpse inside some of the municipality’s most interesting buildings.
Six buildings, including a mix of contemporary, heritage and private properties, will be open to the public on the weekend of July 29-30.
The locations open on Saturday, July 29, are Blunt’s Boat Shed, a family business which has been operating in the Williamstown area since the 1880s.
Altona Homestead will open so locals can explore Port Phillip Bay’s first homestead, built in the mid-1840s by Alfred and Sarah Langhorne.
Modscape, Modular Design Hub will open so locals can visit a custom home builder taking pride in the design and construction of beautiful and functional modular homes and commercial projects, all of which are manufactured in their Brooklyn factory.
Locations open on Sunday, July 30, are Gantry House, which is an extension of a sweet but cramped weatherboard cottage, designed to accommodate a multi-generational family of seven (and two dogs) and their 21st century lives.
Williamstown Town Hall is one of Victoria’s finest town halls; the front building dates to 1918 designed by Plottel and Bennett, with the ballroom designed in 1927 by Gibbs, Finlay and Morsby.
As well as Former morgue at Seaworks which was originally constructed near Gem Pier with convict labour, this single storey, Georgian-style building was erected by HR Thomas and HR Hunt in May 1859.
Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said Hobsons Bay has some beautiful and fantastic buildings.
“Whether it’s for their heritage or their modern-day design and innovation, this is a special opportunity to take a look at some wonderful spaces,” she said.
“Open House Melbourne is all about celebrating architecture and creating discussions about design and the way we use buildings, both public and private.
“I encourage everyone to get involved and make the most of this opportunity.”
