This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Built Heritage & Upcycling Unit:
Throughout history, material shortages often led to creative and circular building solutions. In the 16th century, French architect Philibert de l’Orme developed the “à petit bois” method, constructing large roofs from small timber elements. His work focused on adapting and building upon what existed.
Using the roof truss of the Caserne Rochambeau in Mont-Dauphin (F) as a case study, we explore whether this might be one of the earliest
examples of circular construction thinking.

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

None.
It is recommended to complete this course in the third semester. The prerequisite for admission is a subject registration and the approval of the responsible unit.

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

Group projects are also possible, as well as group work with individual submissions.

This optional module, allows for various kinds of research studies in collaboration with planned or ongoing research projects. It is closely linked to the five units of the School of Architecture and is undertaken individually or in small teams of students. Supervision consists of guiding students towards clear results in a particular area of research. The research project is reviewed before a panel of experts from the supervising research unit.

Built Heritage & Upcycling Unit:
Throughout history, material shortages often led to creative and circular building solutions. In the 16th century, French architect Philibert de l’Orme developed the “à petit bois” method, constructing large roofs from small timber elements. His work focused on adapting and building upon what existed. Using the roof truss of the Caserne Rochambeau in Mont-Dauphin (F) as a case study, we explore
whether this might be one of the earliest examples of circular construction thinking.

Research or design studies defined by research units and under the guidance of mentors, usually closely related to current research projects, developed individually or in groups. The offers of the research semester vary each semester depending on the units and are coordinated with the academic director of the Master's degree programme.

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, continuous assessment and regular meetings with instructors.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following com-ponents: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor; group projects are also possible, as well as group work with individual submissions;

Start, final submission and presentation can be individually
defined with the respective tutors.

Registration via the intranet of the University of Liechtenstein is not binding and is only valid in combination with the written consent of the respective unit. This applies to all Individual Electives in the Master's degree programme in Architecture.

This module allows for various kinds of external workshops, summer schools, study trips, etc. It is not necessarily connected to the five units of the School of Architecture and often organised by other universities, consortia or research institutions. Usually, students attend workshops of 5 to 10 days and develop projects in groups. Presentations are reviewed by the workshop tutors.

Workshop SocioEcoHoods
Teaching for the Socio-Ecological Transformation of Neighborhoods
An Inter- and Transdisciplinary Approach
Erasmus+ Project 2025-2027

Workshop in Münster (University of Münster)
13.-17. October 2025
4 Universities
5-7 Students per University
Fully Funded (accomodation and travel)
Apply until Sept. 7th 2025 to seh@uni.li
Application requirements: A short reflection text on your motivation to join the workshop
Under the title “SocioEcoHoods – Teaching for the Socio-
Ecological Transformation of Neighborhoods: An Inter- and Transdisciplinary Approach”, and as part of the Erasmus+ project, the University of Münster (DE), in cooperation with the Liechtenstein School of Architecture at the University of Liechtenstein (LI), the Bergen School of Architecture (NO), and the University of Genoa (IT), is
planning a series of diverse student workshops at each partner university.

Design or research workshops in groups under the guidance of mentors and with the active participation of the students.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance and continuous assessment.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (60%), active participation (20%) and final presentation (20%).

Registration is only binding after confirmation from the workshop leader.

For Bachelor students: submissions can be done in German

This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Craft & Structure Unit:
As part of the Independent Studies program, questions related to building with clay and wood will be explored. The work is part
of the earth HUB, a platform that consolidates and continuously develops regional expertise in earthen construction. We will work
very closly together in this seminar with the Lehmraum Liechtenstein project.
The earth HUB aims to promote innovative construction approaches and foster interdisciplinary exchange. A particular focus is placed on clay-wood construction, which combines ecological and social sustainability. The project encourages close collaboration between regional stakeholders, researchers, and students to develop practical solutions as well as scientifically sound insights.

Key Objectives of the earth HUB:
> Highlight exemplary projects and regional strengths to unlock their potential.
> Link interdisciplinary knowledge from the University of Liechtenstein (LSA) and its partners to create synergies for research and practice.
> Address the challenges of the “construction transition” (Bauwende) with stakeholders from industry, academia, and society at both regional and European levels.
> Explore the potential of eco-friendly building materials, particularly the combination of clay and wood.

The earth HUB serves as a central platform for advancing sustainable construction approaches and promotes the combination
of clay and wood as forward-thinking building materials.
The material combination of clay and wood is increasingly regarded as a groundbreaking solution for sustainable construction.
It offers numerous advantages, such as low-carbon building, high fire safety, thermal efficiency, and flexible construction
possibilities. The earth HUB is dedicated to exploring how these properties can be optimally utilized to foster innovative building
culture and sustainable architecture in the region and beyond.
This study project enables students to delve deeply into the world of sustainable construction and actively contribute to the further development of environmentally friendly building methods.

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Built Heritage & Upcycling Unit:
We welcome projects that critically engage with themes such as adaptive reuse, circular design, and the transformation of the built environment. Whether you‘re developing your own research
question or exploring a topic connected to our ongoing investigations – we‘re here to support you throughout the process.

Let’s exchange ideas – we look forward to hearing from you!

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

Group projects are also possible, as well as group work with individual submissions.

This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Urbanism, Architecture & Society Unit:
This Independent Study is part of the Erasmus+ project “Socio-Eco-Hoods” and supports the preparatory work for participatory activities in the Liechtenstein work package. It centers on stakeholder mapping in the Mühleholz/Ebenholz neighborhood, aiming to identify and analyze key actors that shape spatial and social developments.Students will map associations, community initiatives, municipal organizations, or informal networks to understand their roles, interests, and interrelations—and reflect on the role the University could play in neighborhood development. Methods may include semi-structured interviews, stakeholder analysis, and visual mapping techniques. The outcome will be a clear and usable overview of the local actor landscape, supporting future collaboration, co-creation, and public engagement in the design studio and workshops. This study provides a useful tool to situate the university within the neighborhood and enhances students’ skills in actor analysis for design and participation processes.

ASSESSMENT Written Assignment (20,000 to approx. 30,000 characters (incl. spaces)) and Oral Presentation

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

You can register for this independent study alone or in a group. For registration and enrolment, please get in touch with Johannes Herburger: johannes.herburger@uni.li or Cornelia Faisst: cornelia.faisst@uni.li

This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Urbanism, Architecture & Society Unit:
This Independent Study explores the role of participatory design methods in neighborhood development. It is part of the ERASMUS+ project “SocioEcoHoods,” and students will examine different participatory design approaches, contributing to the further development of the project. Special emphasis will be placed on the use of clay storming as a participatory method.Literature and case study reviews will form the core of the study, where students will critically reflect on participatory methods, inclusivity, and power relations in participation. Optional empirical components may include testing clay storming as a participatory method with peers. The insights gained will feed into the Liechtenstein work package, particularly the participatory elements of the design studio and workshops in the Mühleholz/Ebenholz neighborhood. The study aims to equip students with tools to analyze and design participatory processes in real-world contexts.
ASSESSMENT Written Assignment (20,000 to approx. 30,000 characters (incl. spaces) and Oral Presentation

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

You can register for this independent study alone or in a group. For registration and enrolment, please get in touch with Johannes Herburger: johannes.herburger@uni.li or Cornelia Faisst: cornelia.faisst@uni.li

This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Craft & Structure Unit:
The Construction Preparation module serves as a vital bridge between the research-driven modules and the hands-on realization of the Lehmraum Liechtenstein project and the earthHUB. The students engage in interlinked areas essential for successful project delivery.
The participants develop a comprehensive project plan and schedule, defining milestones, sequencing logistics, coordinating material sourcing, and aligning on-site conditions with construction phases and seasonal constraints. This sets the structure for a clear, realistic build process. Next, in close collaboration with partners such as Lehm Ton Erde and Lenum, the group organizes material logistics—handling excavated soil, rammed-earth formwork, timber components, and lab testing.
Students plan sampling strategies and lab tests (e.g., moisture, grain size, compressive strength), ensuring soil meets structural and durability criteria before construction begins.
The module focuses on stakeholder coordination and documentation. The students rehearse communicating with industry partners and future users. They prepare annotated site plans, material inventories, and draft facilitation materials for meetings.
By module end, the students delivers a fully articulated project plan with timeline, material logistics and testing protocols, and documentation materials. These deliverables not only operationalize the scientific and design questions posed in the Lehmraum Liechtenstein project but also arm students with essential real-world skills in project management, quality assurance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainable building logistics—crucial foundations for the ecological earth build that follows.

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

None.
It is recommended to complete this course in the third semester. The prerequisite for admission is a subject registration and the approval of the responsible unit.

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

This optional module allows for various kinds of research studies. It is closely connected to the five units of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture and is usually part of ongoing research projects. The supervision consists of directing the students towards clear results within a given field of research. The individual study is reviewed within the respective unit.

Urban Design & Spatial Development Unit:
We are happy to support your independent study projects that use our methods and approaches to pursue relevant urban and spatial development issues and to help you find your own research questions. We can offer topics for independent studies related to our research areas in the Alpine Rhine Valley and beyond.
Then get in touch with us. We look forward to working with you!

Self-defined design or research studies, developed individually or in groups agreed upon with research units and under the guidance of mentors. The size of the module is determined by the respective unit.

After successful completion of the course, students will be able to

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, regular meetings with instructors, continuous assessment, portfolio and final review.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following components: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor.

Contact: michael.wagner@uni.li (or any menber of our unit)

This optional module, allows for various kinds of research studies in collaboration with planned or ongoing research projects. It is closely linked to the five units of the School of Architecture and is undertaken individually or in small teams of students. Supervision consists of guiding students towards clear results in a particular area of research. The research project is reviewed before a panel of experts from the supervising research unit.

Sustainable Design Unit:
Research in Sustainable Architecture – Focus on Sustainability.
What is sustainable and what is not?
This elective module invites participants to engage in an in-depth examination of sustainable building practices within the Alpine Rhine Valley. In alignment with ongoing research initiatives at the LSA, the module is dedicated to the development of a comprehensive catalogue of themes pertinent to sustainable construction. Through a rigorous comparative analysis of building certifications and broader sustainability frameworks, participants will investigate how
these themes can inform and advance sustainable architectural practices in the region. This module offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the academic discourse on sustainability
and shape the future of building practices.

Participants in this module will play a pivotal role in synthesizing an extensive overview of contemporary sustainability topics and translating these insights into a structured matrix for all relevant stakeholders in architecture and the construction industry. Beyond the analysis and research of these topics, the primary tasks will involve the integration of findings into the overarching matrix. This project is tailored for students with interests spanning technical and
economic dimensions, as well as ethical and philosophical considerations. At the outset of the project, the scope of each participant’s work will be customized according to their knowledge
base and areas of interest during the initial meeting session.

Don’t miss the chance to shape the future of sustainable building.

Research or design studies defined by research units and under the guidance of mentors, usually closely related to current research projects, developed individually or in groups. The offers of the research semester vary each semester depending on the units and are coordinated with the academic director of the Master's degree programme.

Minimum 75% compulsory attendance, continuous assessment and regular meetings with instructors.
The final grade is calculated according to the weighting of the following com-ponents: final submission (80%) and oral presentation (20%).

Individual appointments will be set with the tutor; group projects are also possible, as well as group work with individual submissions;

Start, final submission and presentation can be individually
defined with the respective tutors.

Registration via the intranet of the University of Liechtenstein is not binding and is only valid in combination with the written consent of the respective unit. This applies to all Individual Electives in the Master's degree programme in Architecture.