A Transformative Design Experience in Krems, Austria: From Study Abroad to Public Space Innovation
- Martina khella
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
In the Summer of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to travel abroad and study architecture across Central Europe, an experience that reshaped both my design perspective and my understanding of different cultures. Through NJIT’s study abroad program, I visited Austria, Prague Czech Republic, Budapest Hungary, and Munich Germany, each city offering its own architectural identity, history, and way of engaging with public space.
One of the most meaningful parts of this journey was my three-week workshop in Krems, Austria, as part of the AIR Artist in Residence Programme Lower Austria in partnership with NJIT. During the program, we were challenged to rethink how public spaces can support community, interaction, and creativity — especially in an era defined by digital communication.
Our final concepts were presented directly to Mayor Peter Molnar, who shared his appreciation for the fresh, inclusive ideas we brought to the city. The workshop and presentation were later featured in Krems News, highlighting how the initiative explored innovative, consumption-free meeting zones and new possibilities for civic engagement.
Standing in front of the mayor, cultural professionals, and the AIR Lower Austria team felt surreal, a moment where all the travel, cultural learning, and design exploration came together. Being in Krems allowed me to see firsthand how architecture can strengthen democratic spaces, support social interaction, and respond to the needs of a local community.
I’m deeply grateful for this experience. Traveling through multiple countries broadened my cultural awareness, but creating work for a city and sharing it with its leadership gave me a sense of purpose I’ll carry forward into my future designs. I’m thankful to NJIT, AIR Lower Austria, ORTE, and the City of Krems for making this opportunity possible and for creating a space where students can contribute meaningful ideas to real urban contexts.
You can read the official feature in Krems News under “Innovative meeting zones: New Jersey students present their ideas.”
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