‘Architects 2009’ offers platform for construction industry to showcase products

Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) will be hosting ‘Architects 2009,’ which is its 28th trade exhibition from February 18 – 22, 2009 at the BMICH. Held on an annual basis, it will display the work of members that have been carried out here as well as overseas.

The objective of the event is to further facilitate improvements in the industry through the creation of awareness, having both prospective buyers and sellers under one roof. There will be over 400 stalls at the venue, coupled with an improved layout, enhanced public access and exposure, allowing exhibitors to be able to enjoy maximum mileage with stalls of improved quality. This year suppliers  from the Asian region are expected to participate as well, providing exposure to a wide array of products offered to the international market.

This is an ideal opportunity for building material manufacturers dealers, contractors, furniture and equipment manufacturers, a host of service providers as well as the construction industry to present their latest selection of goods to the public. Stakeholders in the industry will be able to interact on a one on one basis with the visitors, getting feedback on their products and services.

Architect, Jayantha Perera, President, SLIA, said “As one of the foremost professional organisations in Sri Lanka and the Asian region, we are indeed proud to hosting the Architects  trade and exhibition fair early next year. We see this as  a grand opportunity for all Stakeholders associated with the construction industry to present their goods and services to a larger clientele. It is also our hope that the increased focus on the Architects’ work area will draw more visitors to the exhibition this year too. ”

Last year, the widely successful exhibition attracted a cross section of over 100, 000 visitors, with a large number of companies displaying their works.

The Sri Lanka Institute of Architects is the National professional body of the Architectural professionals in the country, which was originally established as the Ceylon Institute of Architects in 1956 by a small group of overseas trained architects. The membership of the SLIA comprises of seven membership categories – Honorary Fellow Members, Fellow Members, Associate Members, Honorary Members, Registered Members, Graduate Members and Student Members.

The SLIA has made a significant contribution towards Architectural education in Sri Lanka. It has increased its stature in the region by being a pioneer in the formation of professional associations. It is a founder member of the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA), the Architects Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA) and the South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation of Architects (SAARCH). Together with the Architect 2009 SLIA will be hosting the SAARCH council meeting which will be held in Sri Lanka on the 17th of February 2009. Presidents and other delegates from Architectural Institutes of the SAARC countries will be in Sri Lanka during this period  to take part in the SAARCH 2009 in Colombo.