Time is running out for Scottish homeowners to sign up for a consultation with a top architect.

The Architect in the House scheme is a fundraising initiative offering the public the opportunity to transform their homes, whilst raising money for the housing charity Shelter Scotland. Members of the public only have until 1 July 2009 to go to www.architectinthehouse.org.uk

Celebrity George Clarke, best known for The Home Show on Channel 4, is supporting the scheme and wants to get homeowners inspired to make design changes that will last a lifetime. He says architects can show people how to improve the value of their home and where not to waste their money.


Now in its 13th year, this hugely successful scheme run by Shelter Scotland and the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) is a great opportunity for homeowners to discuss changes to their home with a top RIAS architect. It's very simple - architects nationwide give up their time for free to offer hour-long consultations to the public, in return for a £40 suggested donation to Shelter. Members of the public interested in signing up can register from April 25, until July 1, 2009.

George Clarke said: "Architect in the House is a fantastic scheme to get involved with because everyone's a winner. It's a great way for people to create their ideal home whilst helping a fantastic cause."

Neil Baxter, Secretary & Treasurer, The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, added: "Architect in the House is a great way to speak to a professional about improving your home and discovering what works best. It is also a great way for the architectural profession to give something to so many people whose lives are damaged by homelessness."

Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland, housing and homelessness, said every day there is new evidence of a deepening housing crisis, with 1 in 7 children in Britain living in bad housing, over 200,000 people on waiting lists in Scotland already and the recession adding further pressure to the housing system.

(GK/JM)