Architect consultation to aid homeless

Architects around the country are to offer their services free of charge to raise funds for homeless charity Simon.

The "Simon Open Door" initiative offers one-hour consultations to the public with architects from the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) for a donation of €50 to the Simon Communities of Ireland.

Over 100 architects are taking part and will offer informal professional advice on how best to develop building projects, including building a house, adding an extension or creating more living space.

Participants can expect to get general advice on architect's fees and services, building costs including VAT, planning requirements and documentation.

However, specific planning advice or an actual design will not be provided.

To get the most from the consultation the RIAI recommends that participants bring along an ordnance survey map or site location map, photos of the front and rear of the house and adjoining houses, site dimensions and an idea of needs and budget.

The initiative will take place on Saturday May 27th and the public can book an appointment from today with their chosen architect by visiting www.simonopendoor.ie.

The site also provides tips and advice on how to prepare for the appointment. Alternatively, the appointment can be booked by calling 0818 300151. Last year, the initiative raised over €25,000.

Ellie O'Donnell, national fund-raiser with the Simon Communities of Ireland, said that the funds raised from Simon Open Door would help to provide real solutions that moved people away from their crisis of homelessness and into homes they too could feel proud of.

"Simply put, people who are homeless need homes and we are delighted with the generosity of spirit shown by the RIAI and their members in participating in this event. We urge the general public to take part," she said.

Kathryn Meghen, assistant director with the RIAI, said that the fund-raiser created a good partnership and an excellent opportunity to raise much-needed funds.