Acknowledgments

I would like to thank everyone who supported me through this important and exciting journey.

To my parents who always support me in chasing my dreams and who taught me that anything is possible.

To my sister who made London feel like home and who is forever my role model.

To Denis, my best friend and partner. I could never do this without your love and support.

Anna, thank you for your love for architecture, your endless patience and devotion, for always pushing me further and helping me to find my way.

Lawrence, thank you for being an incredible Teacher, for making me challenge myself and be critical, and for showing the amazing world of architectural thought.

Irénée, thank you for the most beautiful lectures and for your dedication. It was a pleasure to be your student.

Steve, Elena, Francesco, thank you for inspiring conversations and for your guidance.

My dear H&U family, Sarah, Eduardo, Sami, Rashida, Dilara: thank you or being you and sharing with me all parts of this experience, and for giving me a chance to learn something from each one of you.