Ever wondered what life would be like if you’d taken a completely different career path? If you’ve ever harbored a secret desire to wander the corridors of power or perhaps produce award-winning documentaries for Channel 4, London Open House gives you the chance to indulge your wildest work-place fantasies.
Office Breaks Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Opening the doors to some of the capital’s most coveted employers, you may just be inspired to change track completely and become the person you could have been. Last year, I set off to discover alternative career options in two wildly contrasting work places.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office – A real architectural gem, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office oozes colonial opulence from the length of its sweeping staircases to the dizzying heights of its celestial ceilings.
From promoting British business overseas to anticipating terrorist threats, the office is a 24 hour global hub for two hundred and forty Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates across the world. During London Open House Weekend, the beautiful Durbar Court, formerly part of the India Office, hosts a comprehensive exhibition of the work of the FCO where you can suss out the vibe, learn about the corporate culture and find out from those in the know what it’s really like to work there. If you’ve ever fancied representing the UK in international affairs, here’s your big chance.
Channel 4 Headquarters – From hallowed hallways to cutting-edge design, the Channel 4 offices rear up like a galactic spaceship on a mission from Mars. A towering megalith of glass and chrome, exterior glass lifts whizz employees up and down between floors. The interior has a distinctly Big Brother feel with funky, state-of-the-art meeting pods enticingly named “diversity”, “serious fun”, “innovation” and “gritty”. The blinding white Innovation Room is perfect for seeking that blinding flash of inspiration while the “Diversity” room has a more laid-back lounge feel. Another major perk of the job is the private 80-seat cinema for private viewings of all the latest Film 4 offerings.
Chanel 4 Headquarters
During Open House Weekend, bright, young staff members sweep visitors through the pods, casually dropping in tantalising snippets of gossip from the latest ratings hits. With corporate values which range from “cheeky”, “fearless”, “curious” and “with heart”, a job at Channel 4 is anything but conventional and could just be the refreshing change that we’re all seeking. Where do I apply?
Interior lighting
London Open House takes place on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September 2014. To find out more visit: www.londonopenhouse.org