INTERACTIVITY and information are keywords of Open House London 2014 events at The Salvation Army's International Headquarters (IHQ). Open House is a weekend of activities celebrating London's architecture, offering access to more than 800 buildings in the city and allowing people to see areas that are usually closed to the public. IHQ will feature on Saturday 20 September, opening from 10 am to 4.30 pm.
The Open House London website (www.openhouselondon.org.uk) says: 'Through this year’s theme, "revealing", people will [discover] the impact of buildings on their lives, from the design of homes to new public spaces and the role of architects and contemporary design in revitalising places and spaces, showing how good design can make London a more liveable city.'
This will be the fifth time that IHQ has taken part in Open House London. Architects from Sheppard Robson, the company that designed the building, will be on hand to explain significant design aspects while Salvation Army staff will welcome people and assist with tours. The last entry for a tour is 4pm.
For many people this will be a special opportunity to spend time in the serene surroundings of the International Chapel or visit the General's office. The Chief of the Staff, Commissioner William Roberts, will be in his office to meet people and share his experiences of IHQ and the international ministry of The Salvation Army.
Following on from a successful trial in 2013, renowned Salvation Army historian Lieut-Colonel Jenty Fairbank will return to give presentations at midday and 2pm, provide insights into the rich history of The Salvation Army at 101 Queen Victoria Street. The current IHQ building – celebrating its 10th birthday in November – is the third to stand on the site, which has been occupied by The Salvation Army since 1881.
Food will be available from Café 101 all day and there will be plenty to look at in the adjoining Gallery 101, which will host an exhibition of artwork created by clients from the Salvation Army Housing Association (SAHA). Some of the artists will be present, and visitors to the building will have opportunity to take part in interactive art workshops featuring aspects of digital storytelling.
Music will be provided outside the front door by Regent Hall Band in the morning and Maidstone Band in the afternoon.
As has been the case for the two previous Open House events, Major Beverly Ivany, writer of The Salvation Army's daily Bible reading series Words of Life, will be signing copies of the latest edition and answering questions about her writing ministry. A selection of Salvation Books publications will also be for sale, with special offers available only on the day.
Report by the Communications Section
International Headquarters
