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ABOUT KAP
KAP is an independent academic system for pre-university architecture education. It advances architectural literacy, spatial literacy, and the foundational capacities of observation, representation, making, and design inquiry through which architectural thinking develops.
Founded as Kids Architecture Program, KAP has evolved into Khora Architecture Propaedeutics, reflecting the expansion of its work from early architectural learning into a comprehensive pre university academic framework.
Today, KAP provides a progressive continuum of study, from the first development of spatial awareness to advanced architectural inquiry and pre professional preparation. Its premise is fundamental. Architecture can be introduced long before professional specialization begins, not as a simplified version of architecture school, but as a disciplined way of learning to perceive, interpret, and engage with the spatial and material world.
OUR MISSION
To establish architectural literacy as a foundational field of learning before university. To cultivate the spatial, visual, intellectual, and design capacities through which young people learn to understand architecture, engage critically with the built environment, and develop the foundations for advanced study and future contribution to the profession.
OUR VISION
We envision a future in which architectural education begins long before architecture school and forms a continuous pathway from early learning to advanced study, emerging practice, and professional leadership. In this future, access to architectural knowledge begins earlier, emerging talent is supported more intentionally, and the intellectual foundations of the profession are strengthened across generations.
OUR APPROACH
KAP approaches architecture education as a continuum of development rather than a sequence of isolated learning experiences. Students encounter architecture with increasing depth, rigor, and independence as they progress from early spatial exploration toward more advanced forms of architectural inquiry. Each stage builds upon the previous one, allowing spatial awareness, visual thinking, representation, and design judgment to develop as part of a coherent educational progression. This continuity creates a meaningful pathway from early learning to advanced study, supports the development of emerging talent, and strengthens the connection between pre university education, higher education, and the future of the architectural profession.
OUR FOUNDER
Elena Voronina is the Founder and Academic Director of KAP, an author, artist, and expert in architectural propaedeutics and foundational architecture education.
Her work examines the origins of architectural thinking and the role of spatial perception, drawing, representation, visual culture, and design inquiry in the formation of architectural understanding. Drawing on professional experience across architecture, art, and education, she has developed KAP as a progressive academic system connecting early architectural learning with advanced study, higher education, and the broader trajectory of the profession.
Central to her work is the proposition that architectural literacy constitutes a fundamental mode of knowledge. This proposition positions architectural literacy as a means of understanding how spatial order, form, culture, and human experience converge in the conception of architecture.
Elena Voronina, NOMA, Assoc. AIA
KAP Founder
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