Maler studied architecture and engineering in Karlsruhe, then at the age of 21 moved to Vienna where he took a job with architect Heinrich von Ferstel, and became an Austrian citizen.
Maler belajar arsitektur dan teknik di Karlsruhe, kemudian pindah ke Wina pada usia 21 tahun dimana ia mengambil pekerjaan dengan arsitek Heinrich von Ferstel, dan menjadi warga negara Austria.