Celebrating Architecture at Heritage Open Days 2025

We are delighted to be supporting Heritage Open Days 2025, which this year celebrates the theme of architecture. Architecture shapes not only the buildings and spaces around us. But also the way we live, connect, and experience our communities. From historic structures that tell stories of the past to pioneering sustainable design that looks firmly to the future. This theme offers an inspiring opportunity to explore how the built environment influences us all.

As part of this nationwide celebration, we are excited to be hosting a series of events that bring together history, creativity, and innovation. Each offering a unique chance to engage with architecture in a hands-on and accessible way. Whether through art, conversation, or immersive guided tours.

Open Studio and Ask the Architect

Explore centuries of architectural evolution and discover sustainable design at this special open studio. Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a free, face-to-face Q&A session with our architects, who will be on hand to answer questions on architecture, renovation, and Passivhaus design. Set within an inspiring historic building, the event blends past and present, offering insights into how design shapes our world today and for the future.

Art Inspired by Architecture – Exhibition and Sale

Step into a unique fusion of art and architecture. Also taking place in our Grade II* listed Pavilion. The event offers a striking backdrop for a curated collection of artworks by members of our team.

The exhibition spans a variety of styles, from detailed architectural studies and urban landscapes to abstract interpretations of structure and form. Each piece invites reflection on how we shape, inhabit, and are inspired by the built environment. Some artworks will also be available for purchase.

This event will run concurrently with the the Parks Trust’s Great Linford Manor Park Heritage Open Day  Which will feature guided walks, talks, community stalls, children’s entertainment, and volunteers in period costume.

Living the Retrofit: Guided Tour of a 1970s Home Reimagined

Discover the reality of transforming a typical 1970s family house into a highly efficient, climate-conscious home. This guided tour of Parklands EnerPHit Plus. The home currently being retrofitted to the rigorous EnerPHit Plus standard. The visit provides first-hand insights into one of the most respected frameworks for sustainable renovation.

Led by the Eco Design Consutlants team, the tour explores design strategies, technologies, and materials—from insulation and ventilation systems to solar integration—that are redefining energy-efficient living. Guests will also have the chance to hear directly from the residents, including the project’s principal architect, who will share personal and professional reflections on the retrofit journey.

Eco Talks in Historic Walls – AECB Milton Keynes Open Event

We are especially pleased to also be hosting this year’s AECB Milton Keynes open event as part of Heritage Open Days. This evening of short talks will showcase how Milton Keynes is responding to the climate challenge through innovative, sustainable architecture.

Speakers will highlight practical, ethical, and design-led approaches to sustainable construction, offering a vision of what a lower-carbon built environment could look like in our region. This free event is an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, students, homeowners, and anyone with an interest in environmentally conscious design.

Event Summary

Here is a quick overview of our Heritage Open Days programme:

• Open Studio and Ask the Architect – Wednesday 17th September 14:00 – 17:00

• Art Inspired by Architecture – Exhibition and Sale – Saturday 20th September 12:00 – 17:00

• Living the Retrofit: Guided Tour of a 1970s Home Reimagined – Sunday 21st September times on booking

• Eco Talks in Historic Walls (AECB Milton Keynes Open Event) – Thursday 18th September 19:00 – 21:00

All events are free to attend, but please book without delay as pre-booking is essential due to limited numbers. Please email studio@edc.eco for more information or to reserve your place.