Derby architect offers homeowners the key to their dream home

Derby based architecture practice Lathams is offering homeowners the chance to get some expert advice on creating their dream home, while raising funds to help homeless people.

Lathams is taking part in Architect in the House (AITH), a scheme run by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Shelter this summer, which sees architects across the country volunteering their time to offer homeowners specialist advice on making design changes to their home.

Architects are matched with members of the public who sign up to the scheme, and receive an hour-long consultation offering professional advice on anything from plans for a new build home to extensions or eco-design.

In return for the architect's services, homeowners are asked to donate a minimum of £40 to Shelter, helping families who are homeless or trapped in bad housing find a permanent home of their own.

Architect in the House is now in its 12th year, having raised a total of over £700,000.

Chris Twomey, a director of Lathams, said: "If you've got a project you've been keeping on the backburner or an idea to improve your home that you've mulled over but never looked into, Architect in the House is a great opportunity to make a positive change, while helping to raise money for the homeless.

"An architect isn't just for the rich and famous — whether your property is big or small, homeowners can really benefit from consulting an RIBA chartered architect. Thanks to Architect in the House, now is the perfect time to start."

If you're interested in seeing how an architect can help revamp your home, visit www.architectinthehouse.org.uk to sign up.