Jan Meier

Jan Meier is a Professor at the Academy of Fine Arts Munich (AdBK Munich), where he co-heads the Chair of Design and Space with Lena Unger since 2023. He is based in the Old Building, Studio A.O2.15, and teaches in classrooms A.O2.01–04 and A.O2.09–12. His academic and professional work is deeply rooted in architectural design, spatial experimentation, and craft-based construction, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and culturally responsive architecture.

• Academy of Fine Arts Munich (AdBK) – Professor, Chair of Design and Space (since 2023)
• BTU Cottbus – Guest Professor (2022–2023)
• TU Darmstadt – Assistant to Prof. Elli Mosayebi (2018), Assistant to Prof. Andrea Deplazes, ETH Zurich (2013–2017)
• Professional Practice: Co-founder, Meier Unger Architekten PartG mbB, Leipzig (since 2016)

Jan Meier's research and design interests focus on the interplay between architecture and lived experience, particularly in rural and community contexts. He emphasizes material authenticity, experimental timber construction, and the integration of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. His work explores how architecture can support evolving social structures, such as intergenerational living and retirement transitions, as seen in projects like the 'Stöckli' in Selzach.

His professional practice, Meier Unger Architekten, has gained recognition for its thoughtful integration of buildings into landscape and community. Notable projects include 'Das Stöckli vom Ettershof', 'Haus Erler – das Dorf im Dorf', and 'Zusammenleben', all reflecting a deep engagement with spatial narrative, materiality, and contextual sensitivity.

Meier Unger’s work has been widely published and exhibited, including participation in the German Pavilion 'Open for Renovation' at the 2023 Venice Biennale. Their publications include contributions to AIT, Werk, bau+wohnen, CASABELLA, DBZ, and the book 'Professionalism' (Jovi’s Verlag, 2023).

His accolades include the Bauwelt Prize 2023, Swiss Agricultural Culture Prize, and multiple recognitions such as the Pro Holz Solothurn Award and inclusion in the DAM Prize shortlist. The firm has also received the BDA max40 award and been nominated for the NIKE and ARC Awards.

• Bauwelt Prize 2023 – Das erste Haus, Haus Scholl
• Swiss Agricultural Culture Prize 20/2
• Shortlist, NIKE Fügung 2022 – Haus Erler
• Pro Holz Solothurn 2021 – Auszeichnung
• Landbaukulturpreis 20/21 – 1.Preis
• BDA max40, Architekturpreis 2021

Jan Meier has been actively involved in academic discourse through guest lectures and critiques at institutions including ETH Zurich, TU Munich, TU Dresden, TU Graz, HTWK Leipzig, and the University of Kassel. He has also contributed to lecture series such as 'Halle A Lectures', 'Stadt und Wohnen', and 'Young Quality'. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the integration of thinking, doing, and making, fostering a hands-on, experimental approach to architectural education.

He co-leads Meier Unger Architekten in Leipzig, a practice known for its meticulous attention to detail, material innovation, and collaborative design process. The firm has completed a range of residential and experimental projects, often working closely with clients and craftsmen to achieve lasting architectural value. Former and current team members include Ole Tübbecke, Hannah Aßmann-Staudt, Sofía Ribas, and Judith Hoerder.