Dermot Bannon: 'An architect can help bring a dream to life'

RIAI's annual campaign has raised nearly €1.5m for the Simon Communities of Ireland over two decades, writes Eve Kelliher

Sun, 13 Apr, 2025 - 14:50

Eve Kelliher

Consulting a pro is the first step towards taking your ideal living space from the realms of fantasy to reality.

That’s the advice from one of Ireland’s most high-profile architects, Dermot Bannon. “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,” he says.

As well as being a spokesperson for the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI), Dermot is also an ambassador for the Simon Community, which is hosting its annual Open Door event, now returning for its 21st year.

The initiative offers homeowners across Ireland a unique opportunity to receive expert advice from an RIAI-registered architect, while raising funds to support organisations working 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.

Dermot Bannon with Ber Grogan, Simon Communities, and Kathryn Meghen, RIAI.

The Room to Improve star, who has been involved in the campaign from the start, has experienced firsthand how successful it can be for homeowners. “Over the years, we’ve seen participants gain invaluable insights from these consultations,” he says. “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.”

Ber Grogan, Simon Communities, and Dermot Bannon and Kathryn Meghen, RIAI.

Consultations have been taking place this month, from April 7 until today, April 13, with all proceeds going to the Simon Communities of Ireland. Kathryn Meghen, RIAI CEO, adds, “Making improvements to your home requires a significant investment and it’s important that homeowners get the best advice.

Kathryn Meghen, RIAI, and Dermot Bannon, RIAI and Simon Communities, and Ber Grogan, Simon Communities.

The focus on upgrading and futureproofing 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.

Ber Grogan, executive director, Simon Communities of Ireland, adds, “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.”

Since launching the campaign, over 20,000 architects across Ireland have become involved with this initiative.