Beat Burgmaier
- Alumnus of the Master in Architecture 2005
- Owner and Architect @ BBA | Beat Burgmaier Architekten
How has your degree influenced the way you think, approach problems or develop new solutions?
The way I think is the result of memories and experiences accumulated from childhood, through my studies at the University of Liechtenstein, to the present day. In all projects at the studio, I draw on these experiences and seek an individual solution for each task with care and precision, rooted in the regional context and characterised by a respectful approach to the landscape as well as to the local urban and historical setting.
Through this dialogue, aesthetic spatial concepts emerge that are tailored to the specific place and its users. Balanced material choices and the highest standards of craftsmanship complete the work and create a spatial atmosphere that invites people to linger. Based on this philosophy, simple, sustainable and aesthetic buildings are created that endure over time and generate added value for the client.
Which skills or perspectives that you acquired at the University of Liechtenstein help you most today in your professional or personal life?
During my time at the university, I was able to strengthen my way of perceiving things and to expand my knowledge and understanding of architectural history. This supports my work in the studio, particularly in analysis and in developing solutions for a wide range of tasks.
Did you establish networks or contacts during your studies that have accompanied you on your path?
Yes. Due to the manageable size of the university, interaction between the department and the lecturers was very informal and personal. This made it possible for strong connections to develop not only among students, but also with lecturers. I am still in regular contact with several former fellow students, and each year we organise an architecture study trip to exchange ideas and to support our professional development.
Always remain curious in your mind. This is how you stay open and creative."
What concrete contributions do you make today in your profession or industry that also have a positive impact on the country?
Through my work on the board of the Liechtenstein Institute of Architects and on the Building and Spatial Planning Commission, I am increasingly engaged with issues that influence the profession as well as local and national spatial planning. In our studio, this is reflected for example in our work on listed heritage buildings, such as the renovation and adaptive reuse of the Hofstätte Hintergass 35/37 in Vaduz, which is of significant cultural importance for Vaduz and the country.
For us, however, architecture already begins with spatial planning. In this context, we also developed the structure plan and building regulations for the unique settlement area of Steg.
To what extent do you see the University of Liechtenstein as a driver of innovation, research or social progress in the country?
The University of Liechtenstein plays an important and indispensable role in the education of professionals in the country and, through programmes such as earth Hub, promotes knowledge transfer in the field of sustainable and simple building. This is also a topic we engage with in our studio. Simple building, in terms of construction and materials as well as the reduction of technical complexity, appears to us to be a forward looking approach to a sustainable building culture.
What career advice would you like to pass on to our current students?
Always remain a curious student in your mind, learning and growing with every task. This is how you stay open and creative.