10th March 2025
RIAI Simon Open Door returns for its 21st year, offering expert architectural advice while supporting homelessness prevention
The annual charity initiative aims to raise €100,000
The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Simon Open Door is back for its 21st year, offering homeowners across Ireland a unique opportunity to receive expert advice from an RIAI Registered Architect, while supporting the vital work of Simon Communities of Ireland.
Since launching in 2004, this annual initiative has raised essential funds to support SCI in their work with people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. In return for a €125 donation, homeowners can book a one-hour consultation with a Registered Architect to discuss home improvements, including building, renovating, retrofitting, or future-proofing their homes. Registration for the event is now open and consultations will take place from April 7th to 13th, with all proceeds going to the Simon Communities of Ireland.
Kathryn Meghen, RIAI CEO, said,
“Making improvements to your home requires a significant investment and it’s important that homeowners get the best advice. The focus on upgrading and future proofing homes continues as people seek to make their homes more sustainable and more adaptable to their future needs. The RIAI Simon Open Door Campaign is an excellent way to explore options and contribute to an important cause.
For 21 years, Registered Architects have generously donated their time and expertise, helping homeowners across Ireland while raising vital funds for Simon Communities of Ireland. The funds raised helped to renovate Simon Communities properties, ensuring that vulnerable individuals had a safe place to call home. We are incredibly proud to continue this partnership and encourage homeowners to take part, whether they are planning a new build, a retrofit, or simply seeking expert advice. By transforming your home, you can help change a life.”
The RIAI has raised close to €1.5 million for the Simon Communities of Ireland over the past 20 years through this campaign. This year, the RIAI Simon Open Door aims to raise €100,000 to support the vital services provided by the Simon Communities of Ireland. In 2024, the campaign raised over €98,000, making a significant impact on local Simon Communities across Ireland.
Ber Grogan, Executive Director, Simon Communities of Ireland, said,
“Ireland’s housing crisis continues to push record numbers of individuals and families into homelessness, with many trapped in Emergency Accommodation for far too long. At the Simon Communities of Ireland, we are committed to making the changes needed to support people experiencing homelessness, and providing the vital services needed to help people secure a home and rebuild their lives.
“The RIAI Simon Open Door campaign is a vital initiative, not only raising funds but also leveraging the expertise of Ireland’s architects to help create safe, sustainable homes. In 2023 the fund supported the refurbishment of a one-bedroom apartment to accommodate a client of Galway Simon Community through the Housing First programme. This programme wraps vital supports around housing provision for those who have experienced long-term homelessness. The renovations have enabled the client to live in a safe and comfortable environment and to live independently in their own home. We are deeply grateful for RIAI’s continued partnership and the kindness of architects who give their time to make a difference.”
Since launching the campaign, over 20,000 architects across Ireland have gotten involved with this initiative, offering people expert guidance, creative solutions, and a practical roadmap to achieving their home improvement goals.
Dermot Bannon, RIAI Spokesperson said,
“Consulting a Registered Architect can help homeowners bring their dream to life, whether it’s future-proofing their current home an extension or planning a new build. Over the years, we’ve seen participants gain invaluable insights from these consultations. Not only do they receive expert advice tailored to their needs, but they also get access to innovative design solutions for their home. Homeowners benefit from great design advice and have the satisfaction of knowing they are contributing to a meaningful cause that helps improve the lives of vulnerable individuals in our society.”
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.
ENDS
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Red Flag Global
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