Hundreds of visitors will walk through the doors of old and new, big and small, private and public buildings during this year’s architecture and urban design festival. From March 6 through 8, the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s OH! San Diego will offer free tours of nearly 100 locations citywide for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at some of San Diego’s most iconic buildings and places.
Visitors will have the chance to discover some of the city’s newest, never-before-seen buildings, in addition to historic landmarks throughout Downtown, Gaslamp, East Village, Bankers Hill, Barrio Logan, Balboa Park, Point Loma, La Jolla and, new this year, Coronado. Many sites in this year’s event will feature designer-led tours and talks. A juried architectural photography competition will award prizes in a variety of categories.
Opportunities for kids and parents include collaborating with architects to sketch their own versions of architecture at Coronado Clubroom & Boathouse and Wisteria Cottage in La Jolla – recommended for kids third grade to high school.
San Diego Architectural Foundation selects each OH! San Diego site for its unique architectural, historical or cultural value. Sites are hand-picked to represent and recognize the region’s contribution to architecture and design. San Diego Architectural Foundation considers design excellence, the innovative use of materials, repurposing of space, environmental sustainability and energy efficiency when selecting the featured sites. The festival promotes awareness of San Diego’s urban environment and sparks discussion about good planning and design and the critical issues facing San Diego.
Spaces such as architecture and design studios, museums, schools, hotels, high-rises, San Diego Architectural Foundation’s Orchid Award winners and historically designated sites will be open to the public throughout the weekend. Attendees will receive a free map to navigate the weekend events at one of the neighborhood hubs. Souvenir event guides are available for a $5 donation.
Some sites will offer scheduled talks and guided tours on a first-come, first-served basis, while others will require reservations. Most sites are family-friendly and easily accessible by public transit, bike or trolley.
Nearly 350 trained volunteers will be on hand to assist visitors. Volunteer opportunities are available. For more information, visit sdarchitecture.org.
