RIAI Simon Open Door 2017 launched

The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Simon Communities have launched the thirteenth annual RIAI Simon Open Door campaign. RIAI Registered Architects across the country will offer one hour consultations to the public for a donation of €90.00, every cent of which goes directly to the Simon Communities in Ireland. Since the campaign began in 2004 over €600,000 has been raised by the Irish public and registered architects.

A €90 donation will:

  • Provide accommodation and meals in a transitional house for 10 nights.
  • Help fund a home starter pack for those who are moving to independent living such as crockery, kettle, linen and basic household goods.
  • Help provide the Simon Communities rough sleeper team with 3 emergency packs for those sleeping on the streets.

The message this year is to “Add value to your house by consulting an RIAI Registered Architect”. Engaging a registered architect – whether on a new house, house extension or renovation – will save you time and money and add value. A consultation with an architect will outline a range of possibilities and gives homeowners the chance to explore the most economic and appropriate design to meet their needs.

Speaking at the launch, Carole Pollard, President of the RIAI said, “RIAI Simon Open Door provides the public with the wonderful opportunity of sitting down with a registered architect and getting the best advice on building or renovating a home while helping a worthy cause. Unlike previous years this campaign will run for a full week and we are encouraging those to log on to the website and register with your local RIAI Registered Architect. The RIAI Simon Open Door campaign makes a real difference – a €90 donation will provide accommodation and meals in a transitional house for 10 nights; will help fund a home starter pack for those who are moving to independent living such as crockery, kettle, linen and basic household goods or help provide the Simon Communities rough sleeper team with 3 emergency packs for those sleeping on the streets. We are confident that we will reach our target of €100,000 to help the Simon Communities with their fight against homelessness, and would recommend that homeowners book early!”

Home-owners are being called on to log on to www.simonopendoor.ie to book a one-hour consultation with an RIAI registered architect in their area. All participating architects are giving their time and expertise for free. RIAI Simon Open Door will take place for one week commencing Saturday, 13th May – Friday 19th May 2017.