'Grand Designs' can be a piece of cake
The National ‘Tea with an Architect’, (TWAA) scheme founded by Gabrielle Omar, member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and a former contestant on BBC1’s The Apprentice, comes to Exeter. TWAA seeks to give architects a ‘brand overhaul’ and the regular ‘tea sessions’ hope to integrate communities and address common misconceptions about the role of architects in a relaxed and friendly environment over a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
The RIBA and its members has backed Gabrielle Omar with the launch of this campaign and the first of a planned series of Exeter-based events was held at The Magdalen Chapter Hotel. Members of the public had the opportunity to meet local RIBA architects and get free impartial advice and ideas for their build project. The Exeter event held a charity raffle with all funds going to ShelterBox, the South West-based disaster relief charity that provides emergency shelter and supplies for families around the world.
Exeter RIBA chair Kirsty Curnow Bayley says: “Making ourselves more accessible to the public is important to give them have a greater understanding of what we do as a profession and how we can help them achieve better designed homes. We are going to hold regular events and this, our first, was a perfect opportunity for people to get some great free design advice. Whether they are planning a new kitchen or a ‘Grand Design’ scheme, these events will help them get the process started in order to transform their dreams into a reality."
Gabrielle joined local architects at the Exeter launch to greet guests and give a presentation on the profile of modern architecture as part of the ‘Love Architecture’ campaign.
Gabrielle Omar – Director Gabrielle Omar And Associates says: “Tea with an Architect’ attempts to produce a platform where members of the public can find their local ‘tea session’ whether it be a ‘Tea With An Architect’ organised event or an existing running session that local architects have formed themselves. Within these ‘tea sessions’, people are invited to bring along ideas, designs and questions for a free consultation with a local architect on topics relating from anything to personal home renovation to desired community aspirations.”
The next event will be held on Wednesday 31 July from 5 – 7 pm.
Venue: The Lounge, Magdalen Chapter, Magdalen Street, Exeter EX2 4HY
Tel: Kirsty Curnow Bayley – CHAIR RIBA EXETER - 01392 267213
Email: kirsty@livingspacearchitects.com
For more information about the Magdalen Chapter Hotel click here.
