STUDENTS & ALUMNI
Alumni and current students of the Institute have taken the time to share their experience of study at the Institute for the benefit of prospective students.
MIGUEL MAHFOUZ
2026
My name is Miguel Mahfouz, and I am currently a first-year Master's student at the Architectural Institute of Paris. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik in Lebanon. I chose to continue my studies in Paris to immerse myself in a culturally rich environment that encourages innovation and creative thinking.
My experience at the Architectural Institute has been incredibly rewarding. One of the most distinctive qualities of the program is its flexibility and open-minded approach to architectural education. From the very beginning, students are given the freedom to explore their individual interests, whether in design, theory, technology, or sustainable practices. This openness fosters a strong sense of ownership and initiative, encouraging each of us to shape our own path within the field.
Faculty members are supportive and highly engaged, always encouraging experimentation and critical thinking. Projects are not confined by rigid guidelines but are instead seen as opportunities to question, innovate, and push boundaries. This environment has allowed me to take creative risks, develop a more defined architectural language, and refine my vision as a future architect.
Overall, studying at the Architectural Institute of Paris has not only deepened my technical and conceptual understanding of architecture but also empowered me to explore what truly inspires me within the discipline.
NONDUMISO LANGA
2026
During my time at the Architectural Institute, I have been immersed in a dynamic environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. In the first year, we have engaged with various projects, including history and theory, professional practice, and studio projects, all of which have been closely supervised and guided by the school's dedicated staff. Unlike other universities, the number of learners in each studio allows for personalised attention and valuable feedback from tutors.
My favourite experience has been the external lectures curated by the school. Learning from practicing professionals has really given me more insight into the possibilities of what professional practice can look like along with getting exposed to the latest trends in architecture. The experience I've gained at the Architectural Institute stands out due to the complexity and ambition of our project briefs. These challenges have allowed me to tap into my creative potential and develop unique solutions that I might not have discovered otherwise. I have also benefited from collaborative projects with peers from diverse backgrounds, which have enriched my perspective and nurtured my communication skills.
As a school, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what architecture can be through innovative materials and design approaches. The emphasis on experimentation and risk-taking has allowed me to explore different design techniques and develop a deep understanding of architectural principles and practices.
Overall, my experience at AIP has been transformative, equipping me with the knowledge, skills, and passion to pursue a career in architecture. The supportive environment and emphasis on innovation have prepared me to tackle complex design challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field.
CHLOE LAFLEUR
2025
My time at the Architectural Institute has been a period of intense growth, both creatively and professionally. From the beginning, I was encouraged to pursue my interests beyond the purely aesthetic or functional, and to use architecture as a lens to explore the systems of power, memory, and ideology that are found within.
An aspect of the program I appreciate the most has been the emphasis on conceptual thinking and intellectual exploration. The school provides an open and supportive environment to explore these questions whether that be through studio work, theory seminars, or one-on-one tutorials. These courses pushed me beyond my originally conceived conventional boundaries, and it gave me the tools to approach design as a multidisciplinary practice; this was something I was hoping to attain when starting the program. This academic freedom, combined with critical feedback and a strong studio culture, allowed me to create a personal methodology that is both speculative and deeply rooted in historical and social context. I have particularly valued the opportunities to explore personal interests within studio briefs, allowing me to develop a strong narrative-driven design approach.
Being part of such a diverse and international set of students has also enriched my education in numerous ways. Collaboration with peers and faculty alike has been one of the most valuable parts of this journey. Conversations in the studio often went beyond design, touching on ethics, activism, and the responsibilities of architects in an increasingly unstable world in perspectives that I'd not before considered. These exchanges not only strengthened my convictions, but broadened the way I understand architecture as a political act and its infrastructural role in society.
I leave the Architectural Institute not only with a portfolio, but with the confidence and education to continue using design as a means to question, challenge, and imagine alternative futures. I’m incredibly grateful for the support, critique, and inspiration that have carried me through this journey and I am excited to see how this will continue to fold as I embark upon my post-graduate future.
DANG MINH KHOI
2026
Starting my education at the Architectural Institute is a significant shift for me, especially coming from a larger undergraduate campus. The more intimate scale of the school has brought unexpected advantages. One of the most impactful aspects has been the studio environment. Having my own dedicated space has allowed me to fully immerse myself in the design process—exploring, experimenting, and producing work that reflects both my personal growth and professional aspirations.
What stands out most to me is the sense of community within the school. The culture here is far from monolithic. It’s a diverse and engaged environment where everyone is aware of each other’s work, thanks to open discussions, pin-ups, and shared presentations. This openness fosters both collaboration and healthy conversations, encouraging me to push the boundaries of my projects and strive for excellence in everything I do.
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