Open your door to Simon
Some of Ireland’s top architects are ready and waiting to offer professional advice on home improvements with the return of the RIAI Simon Open Door initiative.
The annual charity initiative invites homeowners to donate €95 in return for an hour-long consultation with an RIAI-registered (Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland) architect to discuss building, rebuilding or renovating their homes.
This year, consultations can take place online or in person and all funds raised go directly to Simon Communities to support their work in tackling homelessness. Commenting on this year’s campaign, Charlotte Sheridan, RIAI President said: “RIAI Simon Open Door is the perfect opportunity to get professional advice from a registered architect on how to adapt or extend your home. “Over the last two years, we have spent more time than ever in our homes, and many have had to readjust their living spaces. An important issue with rising energy costs is also the need to future proof our homes.”
The support received from the RIAI Simon Open Door campaign in 2021 enabled Simon Communities to help those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or experiencing food poverty, through various food provision programmes. The money raised last year also went towards housing programmes, renovations and refurbishments, ensuring clients lived in more comfortable accommodation and had nutritious food to eat.
Jennifer Kitson, from Simon Communities said: “The understanding that home is the foundation of our lives has been incredibly paramount over the past two years. Homelessness, already a deeply traumatic and isolating experience, has only been heightened by the pandemic.
“Shockingly, in the midst of this health crisis, the number of single homeless adults increased by seven per cent. The generous support of the public and architects through the RIAI Simon Open Door campaign will help Simon Communities to tackle the rising numbers of homeless people due to the rising rents and costs of living.” RIAI Registered Architects are invited to donate an hour of their time to the initiative by signing up at booking.riaisimonopendoor.ie/Identity/Account/RegisterOrganisation.
Registered architect and RIAI Simon Open Door Ambassador, Dermot Bannon, MRIAI, said: “Over the years, people have got so much from the consultations, getting advice on everything from future proofing your current home to building a new house. All money raised goes to Simon Communities to support them in tackling homelessness. Consultations are limited, so don’t miss out!”
Registration for the event is now open and homeowners are encouraged to book a consultation with an RIAI-registered architect in their local area by visiting riaisimonopendoor.ie.