She studied architecture at the Vienna University of Technology and received her diploma (Dipl.-Ing.) with distinction in 1983. After her graduation, she worked as a university assistant at the Institute of Building Construction, chaired by Ernst Hiesmayr. She received her doctoral degree (Dr.techn.) with honors from the Vienna University of Technology in 2000 and habilitated in 2005. Working for several Viennese architects, she gained her professional experience in the fields of conservation and restoration, sustainable architecture, urban planning and urban renewal.