Stephan Doesinger
“My 1996–97 residency at the MAK Center for Art and Architecture was a pivotal moment in my exploration of urban space, collective memory, and public interventions.”
Stephan Doesinger is an Austrian-born spatial designer, author, and educator based in Munich, Germany. His interdisciplinary approach is driven by the belief that architecture is fundamentally about storytelling and collective memory—captured by his guiding principle: “Form follows Story.”
His multifaceted practice spans exhibition architecture, interior design, editorial design, and immersive digital experiences.
His professional career began in the studios of Alessandro Mendini (Milan) and Ron Arad (London), where he developed foundational skills and a passion for experimental design. Following postgraduate studies at the Architectural Association in London, Doesinger returned as a lecturer, collaborating closely with Pascal Schöning on "Cinematic Architecture," a long-term exploration of narrative-driven spatial experiences.
Doesinger has held teaching positions at institutions such as the University of Applied Arts Vienna and at the Hochschule für Gestaltung Karlsruhe, and has delivered numerous lectures internationally. His influential publications include Space Between People – How the Virtual Changes Physical Architecture (Prestel Verlag), exploring the relationship between physical spaces and digital environments; Der veröffentlichte Raum (Merve Verlag), a critical analysis of how digitization reshapes public spaces and collective interaction; and Elements of Time and Space (Ellipsis Publishers, London), investigating architectural narrative through spatial storytelling.
In 2007, he curated an internationally recognized architectural competition within Second Life, exhibited at Ars Electronica, Zollverein Essen, and the Urban Art Biennale in Bordeaux, highlighting the interplay of digital identities, architecture, and public space. Additionally, Doesinger regularly writes for major newspapers and journals, addressing the ongoing transformation of architecture and urban spaces in the digital era.
Doesinger founded several innovative platforms, notably Picwood (parametric furniture) and Styliamo (mass customization). His recent project, AR-CITYMAG, continues his exploration of digitally mediated public spaces, seeking democratic participation and urban engagement.
EDUCATION
1989
Jazz Studies, Bruckner Conservatory
Linz, Austria
1989: Painting Studies, University of Art and Design Linz, Austria
1990
Industrial Design Studies, University of Art and Design
Linz, Austria
1993
Masterclass in Metal Design, University of Art and Design
Linz, Austria
1993
Magister Artium (M.A.) Industrial Design, University of Art and Design
Linz, Austria
1994
Postgraduate Diploma, Architectural Association School of Architecture London, UK
JURY
Erika Billeter
Catherine David
Gregor Eichinger
Brigitte Kowanz
Peter Noever
FINAL PROJECT
The Desert – Between Vision and Reality
and
The World Above Us – A Global Millenium Project
with Daniel Hildmann
