Empowering students to design their future
At the Los Angeles Institute of Architecture and Design (LAIAD), we are dedicated to providing a unique and innovative approach to architectural education. Founded in 2001, our school is designed to provide an alternative way for students to begin their architecture or design educational process. Our mission is to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue their dreams in the field of architecture and design.
Our Philosophy
We believe that each student is unique, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and goals. That's why we've designed our programs to be flexible and adaptable to each individual's needs. Our small class sizes, personally designed studio programs, and flexible curriculum allow students to focus on their own personal design process and explore different areas of design and architecture.
Our Programs
We offer two main programs: the Graduate Preparation Program and the Summer Program.
Graduate Preparation Program
Our Graduate Preparation Program is designed for students who already have a Bachelor's degree in another discipline and want to pursue a Master of Architecture degree. This program is tailored to provide students with the conceptual design and thinking skills required for Master of Architecture programs, as well as software skills and a professional-quality portfolio. Our outcomes speak for themselves, with students going on to pursue successful careers in architecture and design.
Summer Program
Our Summer Program is a short design, rendering, and portfolio studio designed to help international students improve their design and portfolio skills. This program is perfect for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of architecture and design principles and develop their skills in a short, intensive program.
What Sets Us Apart
At LAIAD, we pride ourselves on our unique approach to architectural education. Our small class sizes, flexible curriculum, and individually tailored programs set us apart from larger institutions. Our online (virtual) classes, taught in the evenings, allow students to maintain employment or participate internationally. We are committed to providing students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue their dreams in the field of architecture and design.
Get in Touch
If you're interested in learning more about our programs, we encourage you to request more information or schedule a virtual meeting with one of our directors. We're here to help you achieve your goals in architecture and design.
Excellent Experience at LAIAD
Instructors and Faculty
The instructors at LAIAD are praised for being great, helpful, and involved. They provide challenging, engaging, and creative projects that help students grow as designers. The faculty, including Bill and Carl, are encouraging and insightful, providing guidance and mentorship throughout the program.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The graduate prep program is intensive and immersive, providing students with a comprehensive education in architecture and design. The program is structured to challenge students, but also allows for creative freedom and exploration. The design project assignments are well-structured, allowing students to develop their skills and produce great work for their portfolios.
Portfolio Development and Graduate School Preparation
LAIAD's program is highly effective in preparing students for graduate school. The program helps students build a strong portfolio, which is essential for applying to architecture graduate programs. The staff at LAIAD provide excellent guidance and support, helping students produce high-quality work that showcases their skills and creativity.
Student Experience and Personal Growth
Students at LAIAD appreciate the program's ability to challenge and motivate them. The faculty create a sense of familiarity with each student and their projects, helping students come out of their shell and develop as designers. The program is suitable for beginners, teaching the basic principles of program-based design in a way that is engaging and motivating.
