The multi-purpose space, with a library, galleries, studios to hire, events, a Blacks Corner bar and restaurant and shop, is aimed at being a ‘living room’ for the city, where anyone can call in.
It opens from 10am on Saturday, September 12 with the ribbon being cut by a host of local heroes, as nominated by you.
After that, it’s open seven days a week from 10am to 6pm for coffees, culture, art, history, media and more.
“I am absolutely bubbling with excitement for the opening,” said Culture House director Leanne Littlewood. “I can’t wait for the city to have ownership and finally have the keys to the front door.
“For them to be allowed into the building, for them to own it every single day and for evermore.”
Leanne says they encourage all the community to pop down on Saturday for the opening ceremony, after which there will be pop in and pop up activities on every floor.
No tickets are required - “just wander along and you’ll happen upon something,” she said.
Ahead of the big opening, here’s a roundup of some of the activities and sights you can enjoy and take part in at the city’s newest venue.
9. Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art
Culture House is the new home for Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art (NGCA), which has relocated from the now closed National Glass Centre. The first exhibition, Kitchen Sink Realism, presents previously unseen paintings, drawings and archival material of Sunderland-born artist Audrey Amiss whose artistic genius was only truly appreciated after her death. Her story featured in the film, Typist Artist Pirate King, named after what Audrey put as her occupation in her passport. | Sunderland Echo
10. Our Home in Space exhibition
The ground floor features another gallery space, with the first exhibition called Our Home in Space. A collaboration with London venue The Barbican, it brings together spectacular artworks from around the world, highlighting how everything in the universe is connected and exploring Earth’s place in it. | Sunderland Echo
11. Fun for all the family
There's a whole section dedicated to families with a host of children's books, a teenagers section, as well as a play area with a big slide. | Sunderland Echo
12. Enjoy the space!
The central atrium is described as a 'living room for the city' and is designed so that anyone can just call in, sit and enjoy the space. | Sunderland Echo