Ilumina

Architecture lovers, rejoice! Museum of History NSW’s Sydney Open is back for another year, kicking off its 2026 program early with Sydney Open Symposium.  While Sydney Open offers up a chance to take a stickybeak in the landmark buildings that make up the city’s skyline, Sydney Open Symposium dives deeper, with a series of talks and panel discussions.  Running from May 23 to 24, the two-day event will explore the past, present and future state of housing in NSW. Across day one, five talks will run between 10am and 3pm with topics ranging from housing materials to suburbia and whether people or policy create real solutions for housing. Notable speakers include comedian Tim Ross, partner at SJB Adam Haddow, host of The Sydneyist, Dr Elizabeth Farrelly, Wiradjuri Architect and Managing Director at Nguluway Design Inc, Craig Kerslake, Caroline Pidcock and co-founder of Second Edition Amy Seo. For those keen to see theory in practice, add a private house tour to your ticket. Across day two, a curated selection of exemplary residential designs will be available to view – from small-footprint apartments to sustainable projects. Highlights include the renovation of a 1920s waterfront Rose Bay property and the transformation of a historic shop corner in Marrickville. General tickets are $50 with an additional $15 for a house tour but get in quick as places are strictly limited. Find the full program here.