RIAI Architects Launch Annual Charity Initiative - RIAI Simon Open Door

Registered Architects are standing by across Ireland to donate their time and support to the Simon Communities

RIAI Simon Open Door is back and Ireland's architects are ready to offer professional advice on your home improvements and it is all in aid of the Simon Communities. The RIAI and the Simon Communities are calling on members of the public to support the annual RIAI Simon Open Door campaign. Now in its 18th year, the campaign will run from Wednesday, 4 May to Saturday, 14 May.

In return for a €95 donation, homeowners can receive an hour-long consultation with an RIAI-registered 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.

Registration for the event is now open and people are encouraged to book a consultation with a RIAI-registered architect in their local area by visiting www.riaisimonopendoor.ie

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 to achieve more flexibility for both the current times we live in and the future. 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. Registered Architects are making themselves available around the country to donate their time and support Simon Communities. The RIAI and its members are proud to partner to tackle homelessness across Ireland and to support the vital services provided by Simon Communities at this time.”

Jennifer Kitson, from Simon Communities said: “The understanding that ‘home’ is the foundation of our lives had 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 7%. 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. It will help us to continue responding to homelessness as we come out of the COVID-19 crisis, ensuring the safety of our clients and that we can continue the work to support people into a home of their own.” 

Registered Architect and RIAI Simon Open Door Ambassador, Dermot Bannon, MRIAI, said: “The past two years have truly taught us the value of our homes, and as we continue to repurpose our living spaces as many companies continue hybrid working, we’ve come to understand the necessity of having a cohesive and functional environment. The RIAI Simon Open Door Event connects homeowners and Registered Architects up and down the country. 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!”

The support received from the RIAI Simon Open Door campaign in 2021 enabled Simon Communities to use much needed funds which went directly into services, helping those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or experiencing food poverty, addressed through various food provision programmes. The money raised also went towards impactful housing programmes, renovations and refurbishments to houses, ensuring clients lived in more comfortable accommodation, and had nutritious food to eat. 

RIAI Registered Architects can pledge to donate an hour of their time by signing up at: https://booking.riaisimonopendoor.ie/Identity/Account/RegisterOrganisation

Please feel free to spread the word about the RIAI Simon Open Door campaign by using the hashtag #RIAISimon