THE Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Simon Communities have launched their 11th annual RIAI Simon Open Door.
Architects in Dublin and nationwide will offer one hour consultations to the public for a donation of
?¬55, every cent of which goes directly to the Simon Communities in Ireland.
To date,
?¬400,000 has been raised by the Irish public and architects. Log on to www.simonopendoor.ie to book your one-hour consultation with an RIAI registered architect in your area. All architects give their time and expertise for free.
RIAI Simon Open Door will take place over Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10.
The message is:
‘Add Value to Your House Renovation, Extension or Building Project by Consulting an Architect’.
Engaging an architect in your project will save you time and money. A consultation with an architect can open up a range of options and give you the chance to discuss the most economic and appropriate design for your requirements.
Robin Mandal, president of the RIAI, said:
“Currently, we are seeing increased activity in the construction industry and the domestic sector, in particular, is blossoming.
“RIAI Simon Open Door gives the public a great opportunity to sit down with a registered architect and get ideas for house extensions, new builds, creating more space to suit a growing family, and making your house more energy efficient.
“Architects can provide advice on potential renovations if you’re thinking of buying a house. There is no project too big or small – architects can give advice on anything from extensions to insulation, boilers, storage, windows and lighting.
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Mr Mandal said they were proud as an institute to continue to raise money to combat homelessness throughout Ireland.
“We are encouraging people to visit their local RIAI registered architect’s office to get the best advice on building a home for the future and in turn to help the most worthy of causes,
? he added.
Niamh Randall, national spokesperson for the Simon Communities in Ireland, said RIAI Simon Open Door is a wonderful initiative which raises much needed funds.
“Homelessness and rough sleeping are growing rapidly,
? said Ms Randall.
“If we don’t move quickly and wisely long-term homelessness will become an epidemic.
“This will mean thousands of people – including individuals, families and children – will have nowhere to call home.
“It will mean more people facing nights on our streets, more families sleeping in their cars, serious illness, depression and death.
“It will mean more
‘working’ homeless, more pressure on overrun shelters and more people on the housing lists.
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