Constantinos Ioannou lauds country's high level of scientific expertise in architecture and land development

Minister of the Interior Constantinos Ioannou said events such as the Cyprus Architecture, Interior Design and Property Awards "demonstrate in practice the high level of scientific expertise that exists in the fields of architecture and land development in Cyprus".

He was addressing the Cyprus Architecture, Interior Design and Property Awards, which reward top projects related to architecture, interior design and the property sector, which took place at Nicosia Municipal Theatre on 17 March.

“The Cyprus Architecture, Interior Design and Property Awards have become an established event in our country's events, serving as a celebration of recognition and appreciation for the creativity and aesthetics of architectural projects,” said the Minister. “Industry professionals, through their work, contribute towards promoting and preserving our architectural cultural heritage and the history of our land.”

By incorporating modern industry practices and digital tools into their work, architects and land developers simultaneously contribute to promoting the green transition and highlighting the environmental character of buildings, sustainable design, functionality, and architectural aesthetics, he said, before adding: “At the same time, they demonstrate in practice the high level of scientific expertise that exists in the fields of architecture and land development in Cyprus.”

Recognising the experience, scientific expertise, and significant contribution of professionals to the development of the country, the Ministry of Interior has placed architects at the heart of its policies, said Ioannou. “As part of the licensing sector reform, aimed at faster and more streamlined procedures, a new, upgraded role has been assigned to all of you, granting responsibilities that had wrongfully been withheld for years,” the Minister went on.

By shifting the responsibility for ensuring the proper execution of low- and medium-risk developments to professional architects and civil engineers, the reform not only reduces delays but also guarantees the construction of high-quality buildings, in line with international standards and best practices, he explained.

“The faster licensing process and the adoption of automated and more flexible procedures not only ensure better service for citizens in meeting their housing needs but also enhance your profession, ultimately boosting development and strengthening the country's economy,” Ioannou pointed out.

At the same time, he said, as part of the State's comprehensive housing policy and with the goal of increasing the supply of residential stock, the ministry is leveraging urban planning incentives to establish a new framework for public-private sector collaboration, “benefiting society as a whole”.

The Minister highlighted the “great importance” of the construction sector's contribution to this effort to expand housing availability, given their experience and expertise.

“The continuous pursuit to transform and simplify our operational framework helps us achieve our shared goal—to effectively and adequately meet the needs of society,” he said.

Ioannou commended the organisers of the Cyprus Architecture, Interior Design and Property Awards, for once again highlighting the best examples of entrepreneurship in the fields of architecture, interior architecture, and land development.

Concluding, he said the value of awards is truly amplified when accompanied by growth and improvement. “Regardless of the outcome, warm congratulations to all who competed for an award, recognising your dedication and outstanding work. I am confident that your presence in the Cypriot business community and society will continue with the same enthusiasm and creativity, contributing to the advancement of your industry.”