Meet our staff

Melanie Kaviani

Senior Lecturer and Professional Study Advisor (PSA), Architecture
Email me: mkaviani@aub.ac.uk

Overview

Melanie is an ARB-registered and RIBA Chartered Architect and works as a Senior Lecturer and Professional Study Advisor (PSA) in Architecture at AUB, where she integrates her professional practice experience with a strong commitment to architectural education.

Her architectural work and studies across multiple countries have shaped her interest in sensory design and lateral thinking in architecture. Her master’s research examined the relationship between architecture, art, and culture, exploring how music, sound, calligraphy, and sensory experience influence the creation and perception of space. This research was recognised with the Nicholas Durbridge Award for collaboration.

Melanie has gained extensive experience across international and UK practices, including work with Kayhan International in Chicago, where she contributed to commercial interior design projects from concept to installation, as well as architectural roles within medium and large-scale architecture firms in the UK.

In 2014, she established her own practice, Atelier Melanie Kaviani, while also teaching as a visiting tutor at AUB, supporting master’s students and working across both professional and academic contexts. She founded her RIBA Chartered practice, Kavian Architects, in 2018 and continues to practise alongside her teaching at AUB, ensuring she remains up to date with current industry trends and legislation.

1 M Kaviani

Contact:

Name: Melanie Kaviani
Email: mkaviani@aub.ac.uk

Qualifications

Qualifications

  • Professional Diploma in Architecture ARB/RIBA Part 3 (University of West of England)
  • Master of Architecture (Part 2 RIBA/ARB) (Arts University Bournemouth)
  • PGCert Professional Practice and Management in Architecture
  • BA (Hons) Architecture RIBA Part 1 (University of Greenwich)
  • BA (Hons) Commercial Interior Design (Bournemouth University)

Teaching

Currently, Melanie teaches the Professional and Ethical Studies unit. She contributes to the Design module across Years 1–3 of the undergraduate architecture programme, bringing contemporary professional insight into the curriculum and supporting students’ development as emerging architects. She brings her diverse cultural and architectural experience into the design unit, contributing a broad perspective on spatial traditions, design methodologies, and global architectural practices. This enriches studio discussions and supports students in developing a culturally informed approach to design.

Melanie integrates current industry knowledge, emerging legislation, and up-to-date regulatory standards into her teaching. She supports students in developing a comprehensive understanding of architectural practice and prepares them for a seamless transition from academic study to professional engagement. Her teaching emphasises the diverse roles and responsibilities of architects and the importance of collaboration within the broader construction industry.

Courses

Awards and Prizes

Notable awards/prizes

  • Nicholas Durbridge Award Master's of Architecture (2014)

Memberships

Professional Memberships

  • ARB Architects Registration Board
  • RIBA Chartered Architect
  • RIBA Chartered Architecture Practice (Kaviani Architects)