This weekend (15 and 16 September), some of Islington's most fascinating architectural buildings -- including the Community Centre at Grafton Primary School and 3 Colony Mews-- will be open to the public as part of Open House London 'Architecture in the Flesh'.<br><br>Now in its 15th year, Open House London invites people to experience, explore and understand architecture, design and the built environment. The event is free and offers access to over 600 buildings across London.<br><br>The pavilion-style hall at Grafton Primary School, Eburne Road, N7 6AR, is a brilliant example of an eco-friendly building, with sustainable features including low embodied--energy* construction, solar panels, a wind turbine, and rainwater harvesting. The hall will be open this Saturday from 10am -- 5pm. Entry is free, but on a first-come-first-served basis. The last entry will be at 4.30pm.<br><br>3 Colony Mews, off Mildmay Grove North, N1 4RB, is a contemporary example of successful urban planning within severe space constraints. The building features minimalist design and concrete block work. The building will be open this Sunday, from 1-5pm, and entry is free. Islington Council's planning team was short-listed for a 2007 Housing Design Award for this scheme.<br><br>Cllr Ruth Polling, Islington Council's Executive Member for Leisure said:<br><br>"It's fantastic that so many beautiful and distinctive Islington buildings are involved in Open House London this year. <br><br>"As a high-density, inner-city borough, we actively encourage good quality, modern architecture that focuses on sustainability and effective space planning. So, I'm thrilled that some brilliant examples will be open to the public this weekend, including the Community Centre at Grafton Primary School and 3 Colony Mews.<br><br>"Open House London is a very popular event and I encourage residents to use this opportunity to explore parts of their neighbourhood that they wouldn't normally have access to."<br><br>For more information about Open House, pick up a brochure at your local Islington Library or visit openhouse.org.uk<br><br>Ends<br>
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009