Copyright euroweeklynews
From November 10-16 2025, Palma de Mallorca opens its doors to the public for a week-long celebration of architecture, design, and the people who bring the city’s spaces to life. The fifth edition of Open House Palma (OHP25) will take place soon, transforming the Mallorcan capital into an open-air museum of architecture and design. The festival, part of the global Open House network, allows residents and visitors alike to explore Palma’s most fascinating buildings, from historic landmarks to contemporary design studios – many of which are usually closed to the public. Described by organisers as a “festival of architecture for non-architects,” Open House Palma’s mission is to make architectural culture accessible to everyone, encouraging locals to discover and engage with the urban environment that surrounds them. Focus on people and inhabited spaces The theme of Open House Palma 2025 is “Espais que cuiden, persones que hi habiten” – meaning “Spaces that care, people who inhabit them.” The focus this year is on the human side of architecture: how spaces shape our wellbeing, behaviour, and sense of community. This people-centered approach aims to highlight the connection between design and daily life, examining how architecture reflects the character and rhythm of Palma’s neighbourhoods. Key dates and events The festival spans a full week, offering a diverse programme of activities: November 10-16 2025: Main festival week featuring tours, workshops, and talks. November 15-16 2025: The popular “Open Doors Weekend”, when the city opens up dozens of buildings for free visits. During the open weekend, architects, designers, and volunteers guide visitors through buildings of historical, cultural, and architectural importance – from private homes and cultural institutions to contemporary studios and civic spaces. Earlier in the week, visitors can take part in guided walks, roundtable discussions, and creative workshops that explore topics such as sustainable design, urban wellbeing, and heritage preservation. Highlights: New buildings and featured spaces The 2025 edition introduces several new spaces to the Open House Palma programme: Monterrey 50B by MUNARQ Arquitectes – a converted garage redesigned into a minimalist workspace inspired by the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy of imperfection and authenticity. Cansalas Gallery & Art House – a creative space blending traditional Mallorcan materials such as marès stone and wood with a modern architectural approach. Casa Encarnació Viñas – a historic home that once hosted literary and musical gatherings, now recognised with a commemorative plaque for its cultural value. In total, dozens of buildings across the city will open their doors, offering visitors an inside look at Palma’s architectural diversity – from Gothic courtyards and modernist homes to cutting-edge creative studios. What makes Open House Palma unique is its volunteer-led structure. Hundreds of local volunteers – including architects, students, and residents – dedicate their time to guide tours, manage venues, and share their knowledge of the city. The festival also encourages collaboration with local institutions, cultural organisations, and architectural practices, strengthening Palma’s creative and civic community. Open House Palma forms part of the Open House Worldwide network, which includes over 50 cities such as London, Barcelona, New York, and Athens. Each city celebrates architecture as a public resource, promoting transparency and participation in the urban conversation. Since its first edition in Palma, the event has become a highlight of the island’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Open House Palma 2025 offers a rare opportunity to step behind closed doors and experience the spaces that define Mallorca’s capital. Whether exploring a centuries-old courtyard, a reimagined workshop, or a minimalist design studio, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for the architecture, history, and humanity that make Palma one of the Mediterranean’s most vibrant cities.
