Main Organizer I Form Follows Human
Elena is an architect and lighting designer from Austria, with her office based in Switzerland. With a strong background in both design and research, she holds a master's degree in architecture and neuroscience from San Diego, where she also worked as a research assistant at the renowned Salk Institute. Having helped organize several conferences in the past, she now takes the lead as the main organizer of this summer’s event, bringing together experts to explore the profound connection between space and human experience.
Japan Coordinator
Barbara is a photographer, storyteller, and architect living between her two homes, Austria and Japan. After spending the last two years in Japan, she immersed herself in traditional craftsmanship, restoring abandoned homes in mountain villages and capturing their life through photography. Growing up in a family of craftsmen in Tirol, Barbara developed a deep connection to materials and the storytelling of people and places. In 2025, she began co-teaching the design studio Built Heritage & Upcycling at the University of Liechtenstein.
Science Advisor
David is a cognitive scientist and professor at the University of California, San Diego, where he leads the Interactive Cognition Lab. He earned his BA from the University of Toronto and his D.Phil. from the University of Oxford, specializing in philosophy and cognitive science. Before joining UCSD, he was a research scientist at MIT's Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. As a former president of the Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture (ANFA), he continues to support scientific research, offering expertise in cognition, design, and architecture.
Elena Sophia Längle
Main Organizer I Form Follows Human
Elena is an architect and lighting designer from Austria, with her office based in Switzerland. With a strong background in both design and research, she holds a master's degree in architecture and neuroscience from San Diego, where she also worked as a research assistant at the renowned Salk Institute. Having helped organize several conferences in the past, she now takes the lead as the main organizer of this summer’s event, bringing together experts to explore the profound connection between space and human experience.
Heading 2
Elena Sophia Längle
Elena is an architect and lighting designer from Austria, with her office based in Switzerland. With a strong background in both design and research, she holds a master's degree in architecture and neuroscience from San Diego, where she also worked as a research assistant at the renowned Salk Institute. Having helped organize several conferences in the past, she now takes the lead as the main organizer of this summer’s event, bringing together experts to explore the profound connection between space and human experience.
Heading 2
Elena Sophia Längle
Elena is an architect and lighting designer from Austria, with her office based in Switzerland. With a strong background in both design and research, she holds a master's degree in architecture and neuroscience from San Diego, where she also worked as a research assistant at the renowned Salk Institute. Having helped organize several conferences in the past, she now takes the lead as the main organizer of this summer’s event, bringing together experts to explore the profound connection between space and human experience.
MEET THE TEAM:
Different backgrounds, one shared passion—designing for people and creating meaningful experiences.
From architecture and cognitive science + neuroscience to Japanese culture and hands on expertise, our team brings diverse perspectives to the conference. What unites us is a deep curiosity for how spaces shape human experience and a commitment to exploring design that enriches life. Take a look behind the curtain of Form Follows Human:
Main Organizer I Form Follows Human
Elena is an architect and lighting designer from Austria, with her office based in Switzerland. With a strong background in both design and research, she holds a master's degree in architecture and neuroscience from San Diego, where she also worked as a research assistant at the renowned Salk Institute. Having helped organize several conferences in the past, she now takes the lead as the main organizer of this summer’s event, bringing together experts to explore the profound connection between space and human experience.
Japan Coordinator
Barbara Ruech is an architect and educator with a deep passion for Japanese culture and craftsmanship. She studied architecture at the University of Liechtenstein and, after working in architecture offices in Vorarlberg, spent 1.5 years traveling through Japan. During her time there, she immersed herself in the culture, learning traditional crafts and working alongside architects, artists, and pottery masters. Now back at the University of Liechtenstein as a lecturer, she continues to visit Japan regularly, bridging the gap between European and Japanese design philosophies.
Consultant & On-Site Coordinator
Julia del Rio is an architect, educator, and design consultant specializing in neuroscience for architecture and healthy urbanism. Originally from Spain, she holds a Master’s in Architectural Studies with a focus on Neuroscience for Architecture from NewSchool in San Diego. She works at an architectural office in Liechtenstein and teaches online at the Visual College of Art and Design in Calgary. Passionate about the connection between space, emotion, and well-being, she supports Echoes of the Alps with consulting and on-site coordination.
The success of any project lies not in the individual, but in the collective effort of those who contribute.
We are looking for enthusiastic on-site volunteers eager to help make this conference truly amazing. Each volunteer will have a clear area of focus, ensuring everyone can contribute effectively. Prior to the event, we'll meet for a briefing to go over all details and expectations. In addition to free admission, the work will be compensated. Your support will be crucial in creating a seamless and memorable experience for all participants. Join us on our upcoming course in July 2025!
Nico Ricoy
Event Photographer
Andreas Müller-Dirnberger
Excursion Leader Bregenzerwald
..soon!
Event Ambassador
More brilliant minds coming soon— stay tuned for the full team!
Our team is growing! We’re excited to introduce more talented individuals who contribute their expertise and passion to our work. Check back soon as we continue to showcase the people behind our vision. If you have any questions feel free to schedule a call with us!