Raphael Naef

Raphael studied architecture at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland and has been working at LEVS since 2016. In parallel, he is pursuing a degree in urban planning at the Academy of Architecture. As a senior architect, he works on large-scale, complex projects, building bridges between disciplines and striving for integrated solutions.

His broad background inspires him and heightens his awareness of the need for holistic designs across different scales and timelines, where technical, social, and economic considerations converge. He is particularly interested in large-scale urban planning projects, with a focus on design strategy, mixed-use development, and the interplay between architecture and urban planning. He also enjoys thinking in terms of systems and how we can guide them to create sustainable change. Our work is always part of a bigger picture, which is why it is essential to look beyond the boundaries of a single plot.

He believes that creating a vibrant and future-proof living environment begins with listening—to the location, the various stakeholders, and societal needs. That’s why dialogue and empathy are central to his approach. A successful design is always the result of a well-managed process and reliable collaboration within a dedicated team.