Chennai Academy of Architecture & Design
Think Globally. Design Locally.
Architecture is best learned through conscious observation, cultural immersion, and engagement with diverse design environments. At CAAD, we believe that architectural education extends far beyond the classroom. Over the years, the institution has built a strong international academic network that enables students and faculty to learn, collaborate, and exchange ideas with some of the world's leading schools of architecture.
Through international studios, academic exchanges, collaborative workshops, and global dialogue, CAAD students gain first-hand exposure to diverse architectural practices, urban contexts, and design cultures. These experiences cultivate global perspectives, strengthen intercultural collaboration, and prepare graduates to excel in architectural practice anywhere in the world.
CAAD signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the IUDS, Singapore and conducted an International Studio in Singapore in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) at the Singapore campus. Students explored innovative approaches to urban design, sustainability, and future city planning within one of Asia's most progressive urban environments.
CAAD collaborated with Tsinghua University, Beijing, for an International Studio that brought students and faculty from one of the world's highest-ranked schools of architecture to the CAAD campus. This landmark collaboration marked Tsinghua University's first academic engagement in the Indian subcontinent, placing CAAD among a select group of institutions fostering meaningful global academic exchange.
An academic partnership with Sripatum University (SPU), Bangkok culminated in the CAAD International Studio at Bangkok. The programme enabled students to collaborate with international peers while experiencing Thailand's architectural heritage, urban development, and contemporary design practices.
CAAD's first international collaboration began with a Memorandum of Understanding with Alfa College of Architecture, Kuala Lumpur, followed by the International Studio in Malaysia. The initiative provided students with valuable exposure to Malaysian architecture, culture, and professional practice, laying the foundation for CAAD's continuing global engagement.
CAAD ROOTS – SCI-Arc Talk Series brought together faculty from CAAD and the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc), Los Angeles for an international academic dialogue on contemporary architectural education. The series facilitated the exchange of pedagogical practices, design methodologies, and emerging approaches to architectural teaching, reinforcing CAAD's commitment to global academic collaboration.
CAAD students completed an International Introductory Course on French Language for Architects under the Artes, ROOTS collaborative. The programme was mentored by Prof Aneela Balsavar, a Masters holder from Rouen University, France. The course enabled the students to be conversant with French language as an operative language for students of architecture. Further, it will enable them to garner additional scholarships.
CAAD signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lincoln University College, Malaysia, to promote international academic collaboration through student and faculty exchange programmes, short-term academic immersion, and other collaborative initiatives.
The MoU was signed during the visit of Prof. Dr. Amiya Bhaumik, the then Vice-Chancellor of Lincoln University College, marking a significant step in expanding CAAD's global academic partnerships and providing students and faculty with valuable international learning opportunities.
Every international studio reflects CAAD's philosophy that architects must think globally while designing locally. By engaging with internationally reputed institutions, distinguished faculty, and diverse cultural contexts, CAAD students graduate with the confidence, adaptability, and global outlook needed to lead in an increasingly interconnected profession. These experiences transform them into practice-ready architects equipped to contribute meaningfully to projects across India and around the world. Over the years, we have had the privilege of hosting several globally renowned practitioners who have engaged with our CAAD academics.
Join CAAD and gain international exposure through our global partnerships.
