Architect 2014 opens its doors for biz and consumers

Friday, 21 February 2014 04:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Architect 2014 was ceremoniously declared open at the BMICH on 19 February by Minister of Investment Promotion Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene. The exhibition is open to the public from 20-23 February from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The exhibition, being held consecutively for the 32nd time, holds the distinction of being the longest-running event of this category in Sri Lanka. It is a rare exposition of the talents of the local architect and a showcase of the latest building products and accessories available in the country. The first in the series of Architect exhibitions was held in 1983. It was confined to a few stalls in the Delegates Lounge of the

BMICH. Over the years the popularity of the exhibition has grown by leaps and bounds not only among the public but also with the trade. Today it is an anticipated event in the public calendar. Architect 2014 includes an exhibition of the work done by 136 architects during the past year and also comprises 296 trade stalls displaying choice selections of building materials currently available in the market. This includes products which are introduced to the local market for the first time. The exhibition further includes two stalls displaying the talents of the students of the Architecture Faculty of the University of Moratuwa and the City School of Architecture. As such, it provides an opportunity for those interested in pursuing Architecture as a career to meet students from both Institutions. A highlight of the exhibition is the Information Centre run by SLIA. Here, visitors are given the opportunity to learn about the practice of architecture and its significance. The centre sells publications by the SLIA and acts as a resource hub to young people who wish to pursue architecture as a profession. There is also a panel of architects constantly available for those who may wish to consult a professional regarding issues pertaining to the built environment. The general public will be able to access various products related to the construction industry including eco-friendly, residential and commercial products, as well as items for landscaping, bathrooms and interiors, which were locally and internationally produced. Visitors can also experience several new technologies available in the market. The stall holders will be on hand to explain and answer queries. Architect 2014 – the exhibition of architects’ work and the trade is a multifaceted event that contains an aspect of interest for everyone. Apart from the Members’ Trade and Work Exhibition, the Annual Sessions of Architect 2014 includes the Inauguration Ceremony, the Annual General Meeting and the Fellowship Nite for a festive closing. Architect 2014 is organised by SLIA in partnership with strategic sponsor Phoenix FlowGuard, principal sponsor Alumex Ltd., associate sponsors Ranjanas Ceramic, True Value Products Ltd. and Orel Corporation and event sponsors ICC, Asian Paints, Multilac, Lankem Robbialac, Delmege Forsyth, Foster and Reed and Assalaarachchi Construction, while the main media sponsors for the occasion are ITN and Lakhanda.