Architect 2011 with the Theme Architecture for All Concludes on a Grand Scale

13th March 2011, www.island.lk

The Architects’ Work and Trade Exhibition, the foremost exhibition of the construction industry, as the Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) concluded on a grand scale.

The exhibition was unveiled earlier following the ceremonial inauguration of the Annual Sessions, titled Architect 2011 by Chief Guest Basil Rajapaksa, Minister of Economic Development. Held for the 29th consecutive year, the exhibition is an integral part of the Annual Sessions of the SLIA, drawing large crowds every year.

This year’s exhibition featured 315 stalls with around 260 construction related companies displaying their goods and services, showcasing everything related to the building industry.

Among the items exhibited were local products, products from overseas, eco-friendly products, residential, commercial and industrial products, landscaping, finishes such as tiles and toilets, furniture and interiors as well as new technologies and material.

Close to 90 architectural practices also displayed their creations and designs, while the coursework of architecture students from the University of Moratuwa and City School of Architecture was also showcased. The Information Centre, operated by the SLIA, was also much visited.

The five-day Annual Sessions, which commenced on February 23, 2011, brought together members of the local and global architectural fraternity, other professionals, students, media and the public. Designed along the theme of `Architecture for all: City + Community’, the National Conference saw renowned local and international architects deliberate on the above theme, which largely focused on exploring architects’ contribution to national development, including creating the city for the community and addressing new issues and challenges confronting the profession as they fulfill this task.

Raj Rewal, an eminent architect and urban designer from India, was the keynote speaker at the event, which was also graced by Archt. Ruth Reed, President of the Royal Institute of British Architects and Archt. Shahab Ghani Khan, President of the Institute of Architects, Pakistan.