The Liechtenstein School of Architecture (LSA) and the Bergen School of Architecture (BAS) share not only a long-standing partnership but also a similar approach to architectural education. With just under 200 students each, both schools are relatively small and offer a personal, practice-based and project-oriented learning environment. Social and environmental issues play a central role at both institutions. Another similarity is their setting: while the LSA is housed in a former cotton spinning mill in Vaduz, the BAS occupies a former industrial building directly by the sea in Bergen.

The collaboration between the Liechtenstein School of Architecture (LSA) and the Bergen School of Architecture (BAS) goes back many years. The two institutions have jointly participated in several international Erasmus+ projects, bringing together students, lecturers and researchers to explore social and spatial issues.

As early as 2017, the two architecture schools collaborated with the University of Applied Arts Vienna on the Erasmus+ project «Society in Motion» (2017–2019), examining the spatial implications of migration and mobility. Through workshops in Bergen, Vienna and Liechtenstein, international teams explored different perspectives on these issues.

From 2020 to 2023, the institutions continued their collaboration through the Erasmus+ project «Social and Environmental Impact Academy for Architects» (SEIAA). Together with Hasselt University and the Royal Danish Academy, they explored innovative teaching formats and the social and environmental responsibilities of architects.

The LSA and BAS are also currently collaborating on the Erasmus+ project «SocioEcoHoods». In summer 2026, students from both schools joined students from the University of Genoa for workshops in Liechtenstein, exploring issues of affordable housing and housing insecurity.

Exchange Beyond Joint Projects

In addition to their joint research and teaching projects, the two institutions have maintained a student exchange programme for several years. Through Erasmus+, architecture students have the opportunity to spend a semester at the partner institution, experiencing different teaching methods and design approaches.

LSA student Anja Riegger shares her experiences in a report on her exchange semester in Bergen. She describes, in particular, the collaborative and creative working methods at the Norwegian architecture school.

Delegation from Bergen Visits Vaduz

In September 2026, a six-member delegation from the Bergen School of Architecture visited the University of Liechtenstein as part of an Erasmus+ Staff Training Visit. Among the guests was Emma Nilsson, Rector of BAS.

Following a welcome by Rector Dr Christian Frommelt, the programme included discussions and job shadowing with staff from various university departments. On behalf of the LSA, Dean Prof. Michael Wagner and Programme Manager Alina Sonea accompanied the visit. Discussions focused on study organisation, teaching and day-to-day operations at both institutions. The workshops and International Office were also involved in the programme.

Further information: «Bergen Meets Vaduz: Visit by the Bergen School of Architecture to the University of Liechtenstein»