In our ongoing profile series of the people who make up our arts precinct, we chat to Tania Davidge, Executive Director and Chief Curator at Open House Melbourne, about great design, the power of collaboration and the stories of our city.

 

What attracted to you to the role at Open House Melbourne?

I’m an architect by training and I’m passionate about cities. I love talking to people about great design and the elements that need to come together to make a fantastic city – like Melbourne! Our program connects people to place and connection to place is really important to me – it’s why we live where we live and it underpins our sense of identity and belonging. You can build a functional city but if no one wants to live there – what’s the point? 
At Open House Melbourne, I have the privilege of talking with people about the places they love and why they love them. I get to share people’s stories of the city with our audience, celebrate Melbourne’s fabulous buildings, places and spaces and help and help deepen public understanding of what makes a city great. I honestly can’t think of a better job.

What is your leadership style?

I really value the sense of community at Open House Melbourne – and the way our program brings people together around a shared love of the city and good design. I believe in working collectively with purpose and creating spaces where people and organisations can collaborate in meaningful ways. I’m interested in what we can build together that none of us could build alone.

What was the last show you saw that rocked your world?

Last year during the Open House Melbourne Weekend, I popped into the Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) and encountered the quiet power of Karen Casey’s Let’s Shake. The installation features over 200 plaster casts that capture the space held between a handshake – created by inviting strangers into conversation until the plaster set. The casts speak of the uniqueness of the relationships we develop and the importance of coming together in ways that make space for genuine connection.

What are you most looking forward to seeing?

There’s so much I’m excited to see during our upcoming 2025 Open House Melbourne Weekend festival. It’s impossible to pick a favourite—I love the quirky projects, the sites that speak to community or teach me something, and the programs that reveal something unexpected about the city and make me look at it from a different perspective.
Looking further ahead, I can’t wait to see the Melbourne Arts Precinct transformation unfold – especially the new public spaces, including the garden, Laak Boorndap. It will completely reshape how we experience this part of the city.

What's on the horizon at Open House Melbourne that we should keep our eyes out for?

On the last weekend in July, the city opens its doors for the 2025 Open House Melbourne Weekend. The Weekend is a celebration of the people, places and ideas that shape our city and this year’s theme is Stories of the City. 
We’re excited to share the stories that make Melbourne unique – stories that reflect its personality, diversity and complexity. We look forward to seeing everyone out and about on the Weekend.

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