My name is Anna Lawecka, and I come from an architectural and urban design background. My entrepreneurial path began during an internship in Warsaw, where I developed a research-based tool helping architects integrate urban research into design. This sparked my passion for innovation in urban design, which I continued through project development and the KTH Innovation pre-incubator program during my master’s studies.
After graduation, I discovered the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program while seeking support for my early entrepreneurial journey. I wanted to gain stability, mentorship, and professional experience while improving my French skills.
My Host, an urban design office in Paris working on international projects, perfectly aligns with my background and thesis topic. The placement allowed me to learn about design practice from a business perspective and contribute my knowledge of research-driven design, helping me grow as an urban design entrepreneur.
During my EYE stay, I assisted in large-scale urban masterplanning projects by analysing site conditions, zoning frameworks, and sustainability goals to inform strategic design decisions. I also contributed to residential architecture, developing layouts and façade designs that integrated socially and environmentally responsive solutions. My work included producing technical drawings, 3D models, and visualizations to support project documentation and presentations. I participated in stakeholder engagement by preparing materials for client meetings, design workshops, and consultations with planners and local authorities.
The collaboration with my Host was highly enriching and based on mutual exchange. I gained insight into managing international urban projects while sharing my research-driven design approach, which fostered a productive and inspiring professional relationship.
Through the EYE program, I developed valuable professional and entrepreneurial skills while deepening my understanding of urban design practice. I strengthened my abilities in strategic urban analysis, sustainable design, and project management, and improved my technical skills in visualization and communication. Working in an international environment enhanced my teamwork and intercultural collaboration skills, and I also advanced my French language proficiency.
Being based in Paris — a city with a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem — allowed me to attend numerous design and innovation events, where I built new and enriching professional connections. I also gained practical insights into how creative businesses operate, from project development to client relations, which will directly support my future entrepreneurial path in research-based urban design.
My EYE experience in Paris helped me grow both professionally and personally — it inspired new ideas, meaningful connections, and confidence in my path as a young urban design entrepreneur.