From 11 to 17 May 2025, the students of the Executive Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Company, Foundation and Trust Law undertook a nearly week-long study trip to New York and Washington, D.C.

Under the academic direction of Prof. Dr. Alexandra Butterstein, LL.M., and Prof. Dr. Francesco A. Schurr, the students gained in-depth insights into U.S. trust and corporate law.

New York: Insights into U.S. Trust Law

The study trip began in New York with a thematic focus on international wealth planning at Baker McKenzie and Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg & Atlas LLP. At the prestigious law firm Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, participants gained practical insights into U.S. trust structures for international clients. From an academic perspective, visits to the Cardozo School of Law, New York University School of Law, and New York Law School added significant value. A particular highlight was the visit to the Permanent Mission of the Principality of Liechtenstein to the United Nations, where Myriam and Noah Oehri provided an overview of the Mission’s work.

Washington, D.C.: Encounters with Law and Diplomacy

The second part of the trip took place in Washington, D.C., beginning with visits to Georgetown University and American University. Here, students engaged in workshops on legal approaches to wealth transfer. This was followed by a visit to the U.S. Supreme Court, including a guided tour of the court and a courtroom lecture. The day concluded with a visit to the Embassy of Liechtenstein in Washington, D.C., where Ambassador Georg Sparber welcomed the group.

To round off the trip, current challenges in private wealth structuring were discussed during a session at the law firm McDermott Will & Emery LLP. Overall, the study trip offered participants a unique opportunity to link theoretical knowledge with practical experience while expanding their international networks and professional expertise.

Eva Lässer and Michael Fenk create meaningful in-between spaces

In the heart of the rural St. Gallen Rhine Valley, Eva Lässer and Michael Fenk run EMM Architekten, an architectural practice focused on sharpening the eye for what truly matters: contextual, pared-back, and enduring architecture. Both graduated in Architecture from the University of Liechtenstein and now contribute a distinctive attitude to the built environment, deliberately engaging with marginal and in-between spaces.

Building with awareness for what often goes unnoticed

As architects working in the rural St. Gallen Rhine Valley, they have specialised in regional fringe issues: houses outside zoning areas, listed buildings, and construction using – primarily local – timber. Although there is significant building activity in their region, these topics often take a back seat to individual interests and financial return.

In contrast, they interpret architecture and its surroundings as a collective entity. When it comes to the necessary and qualitative densification of village contexts, they consider in-between spaces to be just as important as the buildings themselves. They aim to understand existing structures and preserve their inherent qualities. It is precisely these specific and precise responses that enable buildings to stand the test of time.

„Not everything that counts can be measured.“
– Eva Lässer & Michael Fenk

Achieving this requires not only architects like them, but also committed clients, sustainable materials, and skilled craftsmanship. EMM Architekten consciously pursue reduction – taking the time to weigh up needs, planning, and execution: quality over quantity. By using local and natural building materials – especially wood and clay – they aim to create liveable spaces and a pleasant indoor climate. At the same time, these materials have the capacity to evolve and age gracefully – the ideal basis for ensuring a building retains its value in the future.

Professional background at a glance

Michael Fenk
After completing an apprenticeship as a structural draughtsman along with a technical baccalaureate, he studied architecture at the University of Liechtenstein – alongside practical experience in an architectural office. This was followed by positions at Archraum in Altstätten, the founding of EMIL Fotografie in Hinterforst, and later the establishment of EMM Architekten. Today, he is part of the management team and contributes his expertise to three local heritage and planning commissions (Oberriet, Balgach, Thal).

Eva Lässer
After a commercial apprenticeship and a design-focused baccalaureate, she too went on to study architecture in Vaduz. Following a stay abroad in New Zealand and practical experience in offices such as bbarchitektur (Rorschach) and Archraum (Altstätten), she joined EMM Architekten and is now co-owner. In addition to her design work, she also serves on competition juries.

Their advice to current architecture students at the Liechtenstein School of Architecture

Michael Fenk:

„Get practical experience as early as possible – it helps with your studies and opens up new perspectives.“

Eva Lässer:

„Versatility pays off – those who think outside the box and bring a range of interests to the table not only broaden their horizons but also expand their career opportunities.“

Alumni-Porträt: Eva Lässer (BA 2013) and Michael Fenk (BA 2012)
Owners and Executive Management, EMM Architekten, Hinterforst (SG)

More information about the firm:
www.emm-architekten.ch

Photo Credit: EMM Architekten, EMIL Fotografie

On Wednesday, 28 May 2025, the Liechtenstein School of Architecture (LSA), together with Alumni Relations and the Spinnerei, invited guests to the LSA Summer Festival and Alumni Reunion. Despite heavy rain, around 150 attendees, including approximately 30 alumni, numerous students, family members, and architecture enthusiasts, gathered on the University of Liechtenstein campus. They were rewarded with a diverse programme, inspiring conversations, and a great atmosphere.

Excursion: Experiencing Circular Construction Firsthand

The afternoon began at 4:00 p.m. with an alumni excursion to the ZirkuLIE component reuse warehouse in Triesen. There, Dr. Clarissa Rhomberg, an alumna of the university, and Clemens Quirin from vai Vorarlberg guided participants through the project. Despite the rainy weather, the excursion provided exciting insights into the future of circular construction in Liechtenstein.

Exhibition Opening and Award Ceremony

At 6:00 p.m., Prof. Dr. Daniel Stockhammer opened the LSA Summer Exhibition, showcasing models and projects by LSA students. The exhibition hall was well attended, with many guests taking the opportunity to experience the students’ creative work up close.

As part of the exhibition, this year’s LSA Awards were presented:

• The LSA Student Engagement Award went to Sophie Breitruck (ULSV),
• The Bachelor Thesis Award to Martin Dupont,
• The Master Thesis Award to Lina Gasperi, and
• The LSA Alumni Award (in cooperation with Alumni Relations) to Beat Burgmaier for his commitment to sustainability.

Heartfelt Farewells and Inspiring Reflections

Emotional moments marked the farewell of long-time members of the LSA community: The school bid farewell to Bernhard Gasser, Christoph Angehrn, and Prof. Dr. Lindsay Howe, who have significantly shaped architectural education at the University over the years.

A notable anecdote from an alumna now working in the Netherlands highlighted LSA’s international influence:

“During our studies, we were often shown reference projects by Dutch architects. Now, in our office, we present references from German-speaking architects—including projects by uni.li alumna and former lecturer Bianca Böckle (bothand architecture).”

Music, Food, and Good Vibes in the Rain

Musical entertainment was provided by the alumni band Betonleiter, featuring Simon Egger, Loris Vogt, Noah Laternser, and Julian Huber—creating the perfect festival atmosphere. The Spinnerei served refreshing drinks, and Pasta Barn delighted guests with freshly made pasta.

A Strong Sign of Community Spirit

The LSA Summer Festival 2025 was a vibrant testament to the strong sense of community within the LSA network—an event full of energy, inspiration, and joyful reunions. Despite the rain, it was a true highlight of the academic year—and a great party, too.

Photos: Fabio Schober