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• 28: Simon Week 2009

Expert architectural advice offered in return for donation to the homelessness charity

The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Simon Communities of Ireland today launched the sixth annual RIAI Simon Open Door Weekend campaign. From today, the public can log on to www.simonopendoor.ie to book a one hour consultation with the RIAI architect of their choice in return for a €50 donation to the Simon Communities of Ireland. Due to phenomenal nationwide success of the campaign since its launch in 2004, for the first time ever the Simon Open Door Initiative will now span an entire weekend, taking place on Saturday and Sunday, 24th and 25th April 2010.

The theme of this year's campaign is low cost interventions which help families create a home that allows them to cope with their changing needs, as well as their bills. Architects call this process 'future-proofing'.

Commenting at the launch, Dermot Bannon, RTE presenter and RIAI registered architect, said: "The RIAI Simon Open Door Weekend gives the public a chance to improve their own home while also helping those who are experiencing homelessness. Some people might think that architects only deal with big public works or designer buildings but they can also help you with simple issues such as storage, lighting and heating which can make a big difference to your life and your bills! Architects can help you get better value for money, more space, and layouts that will work just as well in ten years time as they do today. There are architects participating in almost every county so I would urge people to go online (www.simonopendoor.ie) and book an appointment today."

Also speaking at the launch, Patrick Burke, CEO of the Simon Communities of Ireland said: "We are delighted to partner with the RIAI on Open Door for the sixth year running, and on behalf of everyone at the Simon Communities of Ireland I want to sincerely thank all the architects who have signed up to give their services free of charge again this year.

"The current downturn means more people than before are at risk of homelessness. As increasing numbers of of people are impacted by the recession, it's inevitable that more people will be seeking help. Now, more than ever, we need the support of the public to ensure that we can continue to advocate on behalf of some of the most vulnerable people in our society."

Visit www.simonopendoor.ie for information on booking your appointment

Click here for the full press release