Considering some home improvement? Raise money for charity while getting expert advice

If you’re considering contacting an architect about a home project, now is a great time to do it. The annual partnership between the RIAI and the Simon Communities, RIAI Simon Open Door, means members of the public can secure a one-hour consultation with an architect in exchange for a donation of just €90. All funds raised will go directly to the homeless charity.

RIAI registered architects can help with general issues such as extensions, new builds, planning queries, or renovating your home, and a consultation is a great place to start planning your project. Slots are available to book from May 14 – 20.

Architect Dermot Bannon is advising those who are interested to book as soon as possible, as slots are filling up rapidly, with many practices’ appointments entirely sold out. Below are ten architects taking part in the initiative across the country.

Doherty Architects

As well as all the architectural services you would expect, this Donegal practice also are qualified Passive House designers, interior designers, fire safety consultants and health and safety consultants, so they can assist with a large range of queries. dohertyarchitects.com

Circa Design

Wexford-based practice Circa Design has experience in a wide range of projects, from new-builds to extensions. They also specialise in energy-efficient and Passive House designs, so can ensure that your project meets high environmental standards. circadesign.ie

Green Design Build

Sustainability is at the heart of everything this practice in Dublin does. They provide all architectural services for domestic projects, and are committed to delivering excellent quality along with great value. greendesignbuild.ie

Jane Meade Architects

These Longford architects place particular importance on residential design work, from renovations and extensions to private houses. They focus on light, energy-efficiency, and connection with the outside. janemeadearchitect.com

Ronan Rose Roberts Architects

This Wicklow practice has a reputation for high-quality design and environmental responsibility, as well as their experience in working with listed buildings. ronanroseroberts.com

Petra Walsh

Now based in Kerry, Petra Walsh has worked internationally on large-scale projects, as well as over ten years experience working in Ireland. She aims for dialogue in her projects: “Dialogue with the client, with the site, and its wider surroundings.” petrawalsh.blogspot.ie

MHF Architects

Dublin-based MHF Architects realise that clients can frequently be overwhelmed with the design and construction process, and so try to help them understand what’s going on at every stage of their project. mhfarchitects.ie

CCH Architects

Kilkenny practice CCH Architects have offices in London, Australia and Abu Dhabi, so have international experience as well as local expertise. They specialise in the building design, project management, interior design, master planning and dispute resolution. cch-architects.com

Emmet Holland Architects

Focusing on domestic projects, this practice knows how to work with homeowners and understand their needs. Based in Dundalk, they aim to create designs that maximise the potential of clients’ spaces. emmethollandarchitect.ie

Winkens Architecture

Open plan living, building in harmony with the surrounding environment and utilising solar gain are all central to the work of Wexford-based Winkens Architecure. They also specialise in sustainable, low-energy buildings. winkens.ie

If you’re interested in taking part, you can reserve an appointment with an RIAI-registered architect in your local area by visiting www.simonopendoor.ie. Spots are disappearing fast though, so book yours as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. 

Featured image: Ronan Rose Roberts Architects