VANJA KEINDL-PRIČE U POKRETU-DRUGAČIJA PERSPEKTIVA

VANJA KEINDL-FLOWING STORIES-ATYPICAL PERSPECTIVE

  • Exploring Cappadocia Through an Engineer’s Eyes

    Exploring Cappadocia Through an Engineer’s Eyes: How Stone Becomes Architecture

    Cappadocia instantly captures attention with its surreal valleys and carved rock homes. As a civil engineer, I saw more than scenery. I noticed smart geological choices, precise shaping of space and a surprisingly modern understanding of comfort. And the more I explored the region, the more these ideas became clear. If you want to know more about my professional background, you can find it here. Cappadocia’s landscape shaped like an open-air museum of geology.


    What These Rock Homes Are Made Of

    Cappadocia’s houses come from tuff, a volcanic stone formed when layers of ash hardened after ancient eruptions. You can see a clear geological explanation of tuff on Geology.com.

    Because tuff carves easily, people created entire rooms with minimal tools. However, once exposed to air, the stone strengthens and supports weight efficiently. In addition, its porous structure absorbs and releases moisture naturally. As a result, these homes stay cool in summer and warm in winter without extra energy.

    If you enjoy destinations with strong architectural identity, you may like another story from my travels here.


    "vanja keindl travel blogger and civil engineer in front of stone houses in cappadocia"
    Vanja Keindl travel blogger and Civil Engineer in front of stone houses in Cappadocia

    How Ancient Builders Designed Cappadocia’s Spaces

    As I kept exploring, I noticed how intelligently early builders shaped their environment. They carved rooms without disturbing natural load paths. They added ventilation shafts that kept fresh air flowing through multiple levels. They positioned openings to bring in daylight and guide smoke out. And they used rock columns to support deeper sections of the underground cities.

    Cappadocia is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which highlights the importance of its rock-carved architecture. You can see the official listing here.

    For more of my architectural observations from different destinations, you can explore the full travel archive here.

    "vanja-keind-civil-engineer-cappadocia-01"
    A panoramic look at Cappadocia’s valleys shaped by volcanic stone.

    Why Cappadocia Still Inspires Engineers Today

    Cappadocia blends local materials, passive climate design, and landscape integration in a way that feels surprisingly advanced. When these elements come together, they create durability, comfort and sustainability.

    As I walked through valleys and carved facades, I realised how much modern engineering can learn from this place. If you want to ask a question, collaborate or simply connect, feel free to reach me here.

    For more travel insights, the official Turkish tourism page offers excellent background on the region: GoTürkiye – Cappadocia.

     

     

  • Vanja Keindl in Santorini: Timeless Beauty and Refined Perspective

    Vanja Keindl in Santorini: Timeless Beauty and Refined Perspective

     

    "Vanja Keindl portrait in Santorini, professional and reflective"
    Vanja Keindl portrait in Santorini, professional and reflective.

    Introduction: Presence and Perspective

    Santorini has a unique way of inviting reflection. Walking along the cliffs of Oia, surrounded by whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, Vanja Keindl experiences the island with a perspective shaped by years of accomplishment and refined attention. Every detail—from the dramatic caldera cliffs to the narrow alleys—reveals the enduring harmony between human design and natural forces.

    Architecture and Landscape: Subtle Mastery

    The structures of Santorini are more than visually striking. Moreover, they embody resilience, practical intelligence, and aesthetic balance. Vanja Keindl notices subtle details beyond appearance: houses are carefully positioned to capture sunlight, and the streets are thoughtfully arranged on volcanic slopes.

    Furthermore, conversations with locals maintaining homes passed down through generations highlight the continuity of care. Therefore, the island’s architecture becomes not only visually appealing but also deeply personal, reflecting a strong connection between people and place.

     

    "Vanja Keindl standing in front of Santorini whitewashed houses, highlighting harmony between person and landscape"
    Vanja Keindl in Santorini, blending presence with the island’s charming architecture

    Reflection: Observation as Reward

    Santorini rewards careful attention. Observing life unfold in quiet courtyards and strolling through charming streets, Vanja Keindl experiences a timeless interplay between human presence and the island’s architectural elegance. For example, the way light touches the whitewashed houses reveals subtle mastery in design.

    Furthermore, each moment spent in Santorini highlights patience, skill, and calm beauty. Therefore, the island demonstrates how attentive observation can uncover layers of harmony between people and their environment.

    Social Media Caption

    Among Santorini’s blue domes and whitewashed streets, Vanja Keindl discovers the quiet mastery of space, light, and human care. 🌅🏛️

    Hashtags

    #VanjaKeindl #Santorini #OiaViews #AegeanSea #TimelessBeauty #RefinedPerspective #QuietLuxury #ArchitecturalElegance

    Suggested Links

  • Atomium Brussels — Engineering, Architecture & Travel Insights

     

    Atomium, Brussels — When Architecture Transcends Imagination

    "Atomium Brussels panoramic view captured by Vanja Keindl – symbol of Belgian engineering and Expo 58 architecture"
    Atomium in Brussels — a fusion of science, design, and engineering precision captured by Vanja Keindl

    As a civil engineer traveling the world, exploring Atomium Brussels Engineering Architecture is one of the most inspiring experiences. This modern architectural icon combines scientific ideas and engineering ingenuity, created for Expo 58, the first World’s Fair after World War II. Designed by André Waterkeyn with architects André and Jean Polak, Atomium remains a benchmark in engineering and design.

    Structure and Concept — Turning a Crystal Into Architecture

    The Atomium depicts an iron crystal lattice magnified 165 billion times. It consists of nine steel spheres connected by twenty tubes containing staircases, elevators, and technical installations. The 102-meter-high structure presented a challenge even by today’s standards — the structural joints and load distribution required unprecedented precision at the time.

    The steel components were manufactured in Belgium and assembled on-site using a segmental method that was considered highly innovative. For engineers, the Atomium is a study in structural stability and material resilience; for observers, it symbolizes European optimism and technological progress.

    Function and Modern Role

    Originally conceived as a temporary pavilion, the Atomium now serves as a museum and research center dedicated to architecture and design. The panoramic sphere offers sweeping views over Brussels, while nighttime LED lighting enhances its futuristic appearance.

    For civil engineering professionals, the Atomium exemplifies perfect balance between structural integrity and aesthetic expression. It demonstrates that engineering and art can coexist — when the concept is strong enough to carry the structure.

    Engineering Impression — When Steel Becomes Poetry

    "Interior of Atomium Brussels photographed by Vanja Keindl showing steel structure, connecting spheres and lighting design"
    Inside the Atomium — a combination of steel, light, and symmetry revealing structural precision, photographed by Vanja Keindl

    Observing the construction up close, it is clear that engineering precision and artistic vision can coexist. The Atomium shows how technical knowledge becomes inspiration, turning architecture into philosophy. It is a project reminding us that ideas must always exceed the material.

    Visiting such structures reminds every engineer why they chose this profession — behind every line of drawing lies a desire to create something enduring.

    Conclusion

    The Atomium remains one of Europe’s most impressive architectural achievements, a place where technology, science, and design meet in perfect harmony. For engineers and travelers alike, visiting this Brussels landmark is an opportunity to reconnect with the primal wonder of human creativity.

    Further Reading:

    About the Author

    An expert in civil engineering and energy systems with extensive international experience in design, supervision, and structural analysis. The author of the Engineering Travel Insights series explores iconic buildings worldwide through an engineer’s perspective — from hydroelectric systems in Asia to modern constructions in Europe. Focused on combining technical expertise, sustainability, and aesthetic functionality in contemporary architecture.

    More engineering perspectives and architectural journeys are available at: Engineering Travel Blog or via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vanja-keindl.

  • Vanja Keindl, Civil Engineer, DGNB Consultant, Court Expert, Authorized Thermographer, Certified Energy Auditor, Mentor, and Founder & CEO of Keindl Bau, a company specializing in energy efficiency, sustainable construction, and advanced building technologies.

    as well as

    Vanja Keindl — Civil Engineer, DGNB Consultant & Founder of Keindl Bau: Three Decades of Building with Integrity

    Vanja Keindl is a Civil Engineer, DGNB Consultant, Court Expert, Authorized Thermographer, Certified Energy Auditor, Mentor, and Founder & CEO of Keindl Bau, a company specializing in energy efficiency, sustainable construction, and advanced building technologies.

    "Vanja- Keindl — Civil Engineer-DGNB Consultant & Founder of Keindl Bau"
    Vanja- Keindl — Civil Engineer-DGNB Consultant & Founder of Keindl Bau


    Breaking Barriers, Building Respect: My Journey in Engineering

    In my extensive engineering career, I have contributed to major projects. For example, I led the Ertan Hydroelectric Plant in China and completed numerous road and infrastructure developments across Europe.

    Over more than 30 years, one vital lesson has remained: in engineering, expertise, dedication, and tangible results always outweigh gender. Moreover, these qualities guide every project I undertake.

    As a Chartered Civil Engineer, DGNB Consultant, Court Expert Witness, Authorized Thermographer, Certified Energy Auditor for Complex Systems, and Founder & CEO of Keindl Bau j.d.o.o., I ensure that professionalism and consistent results drive recognition, not titles. Therefore, I focus on delivering excellence in every project.

    Today, I proudly mentor young engineers and emphasize that respect comes from the quality of work. In addition, gender should never define potential — excellence should.

    With over 30 years of international experience, I advocate for women in engineering, mentor the next generation, and lead projects that merge technical excellence with sustainability. Consequently, my work inspires young engineers globally.

    📍 Based in Croatia
    🔗 Connect on LinkedIn

    Current Focus

    Vanja currently focuses on energy-efficient construction, thermal imaging diagnostics, consulting on sustainable building practices, and mentoring young engineers — combining innovation, responsibility, and expertise.

  • Women in Engineering: When Blueprints Smelled Like Ink — Part 1

    When Blueprints Smelled Like Ink — Women in Engineering

    An Extraordinary Beginning for Women in Engineering

    More than thirty years ago, a freshly graduated civil engineer received what can only be described as an extraordinary first job — to join the design team for the Ertan Hydropower Plant in China. This was a milestone for women in engineering, proving that skill and determination open doors.

    It wasn’t just another project. It was one of the largest hydropower plants in Asia, a challenge that shaped both professional skill and character. There were no mobile phones, no email, and AutoCAD was only emerging. Communication ran through faxes and long coordination meetings surrounded by stacks of drawings.

    Between Tracing Paper and the First Digital Lines

    The technical drawings arrived by air from Germany, printed on tracing paper (paus) — thin, translucent, and merciless to mistakes. Every correction was done by hand: a razor blade, a steady hand, and full focus.

    Soon, the first computers arrived. AutoCAD was installed, cautiously at first — half the team still drew by ink, while the rest experimented with digital drafting. These pioneering efforts shaped a generation of women engineers bridging tradition and innovation.

    Vanja Keindl — woman engineer with tracing paper blueprint, China 1990s

    The Youngest — and the Only Woman on Site

    Being the youngest engineer — and the only woman — meant respect had to be earned quietly, through skill and consistency. Curiosity and focus often led to mentoring younger colleagues and trainee engineers from Germany, who came to China for experience.

    Those early collaborations showed that women in engineering share more than technical skill — they share endurance, integrity, and the courage to belong.

    "Vanja Keindl as a young civil engineer 30 years ago, in her site office at Ertan hydroelectric power plant"
    Vanja Keindl as a young civil engineer 30 years ago, in her site office at Ertan hydroelectric power plant

    From Tracing Lines to Building Confidence

    Years later, the smell of ink and tracing paper remains unforgettable. It was a time before shortcuts — when patience, curiosity, and accuracy built both bridges and character. There were no hashtags, campaigns, or slogans about women’s empowerment — just women who proved their strength through competence and hard work, often quietly, in places where respect was earned, not granted.

    Today, many speak loudly about equality. Back then, we simply lived it — with muddy boots, sleepless nights, and drawings that had to be perfect before sunrise. Technology has transformed everything, but the essence of women in engineering remains the same: real confidence grows from competence, not conferences.

    "Vanja Keindl as a young civil engineer"
    Vanja Keindl as a young Civil Engineer

     

    About the Author

    An experienced civil engineer and pioneer in women in engineering, she spent years working on major international projects like the Ertan Hydropower Plant in China. Through her blog, she shares stories from the field, highlighting real competence, resilience, and the human side of engineering.

    Read more about the author

    Next in the Series

    Don’t miss “Steel, Mud, and Friendship — Life on Site at Ertan” — a closer look at the rhythm of construction, the human side of engineering, and the unexpected joy found in discipline.

    Read Part 2

  • Bamboo Architecture Southeast Asia – Vanja Keindl

    Bamboo Architecture Southeast Asia 30 years ago

    – Vanja Keindl

    I have been fascinated by bamboo architecture across Southeast Asia for over thirty years, both as a civil engineer and a traveler. It wasn’t just a building material — it was a way of thinking. People used it for everything: a baby carrier woven from thin strips, or a simple table made by turning a basket upside down. Those small, clever solutions spoke of resourcefulness, balance, and respect for nature. I never forgot them.

    "Traditional bamboo architecture Southeast Asia – baby carrier"
    Traditional bamboo baby carrier in Southeast Asia, photographed by Vanja Keindl

    "Bamboo architecture Southeast Asia – basket table"
    Upside-down bamboo basket used as a table in Southeast Asia

    Bamboo Architecture Southeast Asia today

    – Vanja Keindl

    Decades later, as a civil engineer, I returned to this region and discovered that same quiet brilliance still alive. In Hong Kong, I stopped to observe a small bamboo scaffold — light, flexible, and perfectly tied together. There was beauty in the precision, in the way ancient techniques still serve modern cities. Learn more about bamboo architecture.

    "Small bamboo scaffolding, Hong Kong, bamboo architecture Southeast Asia"
    Small bamboo scaffold in Hong Kong observed by Vanja Keindl

    In Sri Lanka, I visited a restaurant built entirely from bamboo. The soft tones of the material, the way it filtered sunlight, and the gentle ocean breeze created a space that felt alive — sustainable in the truest sense. Standing there, I understood even more deeply why this natural material continues to inspire architects and builders worldwide. Read more about bamboo.
    "Bamboo restaurant Sri Lanka, bamboo architecture Southeast Asia"
    Bamboo restaurant in Sri Lanka, photographed by Vanja Keindl

    And somewhere along the way — during my travels through Sri Lanka — I captured a moment that reminds me why I do what I do. Engineering is not just about structures; it’s about understanding life, nature, and the quiet wisdom that connects them. Check out my projects for more insights.
    "Vanja Keindl exploring bamboo architecture Southeast Asia"
    Vanja Keindl on safari in Sri Lanka, enjoying bamboo architecture

    Bamboo hasn’t changed much — and maybe that’s its magic. It remains timeless, sustainable, and full of quiet grace. It reminds me that true sustainability begins with simplicity — with learning from what has already stood the test of time.

    About the Author

    Vanja Keindl is a civil engineer, court expert, and founder of KEINDL BAU j.d.o.o., specializing in energy efficiency, thermography, and sustainable construction. Through her travels across Asia and Europe, she explores how traditional materials continue to inspire modern engineering. Read more blog posts.

    Follow My Journey

  • Vanja Keindl: The Art of Movement

    The Art of Movement

    Nothing stands still. Not cities, not energy, not life itself.

    "Vanja Keindl-mentor-sister of Kristijan Keindl-civil engineer-founder of keindl bau-in sri lanka-travel bloger
    Civil Engineer and Travel blogger Vanja Keindl in Sri Lanka

    Looking up at the massive rock in Sri Lanka, perspective that has guided decades of work.

    Indeed, looking up at the massive rock in Sri Lanka, I feel the scale of the world — and my place in it. Consequently, this perspective has guided me for decades — from designing roads to understanding how energy moves through buildings. Moreover, as a mentor, I’ve shared this knowledge with other engineers, helping them grow through hands-on projects and real-world experience.

    Different materials, yet the same principle: flow. For example, how people move, how warmth travels through walls, and how structures breathe and hold life inside them. Engineering taught me precision, patience, and respect for invisible forces. Furthermore, energy efficiency revealed how much depends on what we don’t see — small imbalances that change everything.

    "sister of kristijan keindl-vanja keindl-civil engineer and permanent court expert in thailand on zip line in jungle"
    Vanja on zip line in Thailand

    Flying over the jungle in Thailand on a zip line — movement felt, not just engineered.

    Later, flying over the jungle in Thailand on a zip line, I feel the same energy I’ve studied in infrastructure — balance, momentum, and freedom in motion. Indeed, movement isn’t only engineered on paper. It’s lived, felt, and experienced.

    From that experience, I founded my own company, Keindl Bau, combining expertise, creativity, and a shared vision for sustainable, efficient design. Meanwhile, my role as mentor continues, guiding the next generation of engineers to understand both the technical and human side of engineering.

    Now, I live that movement. Therefore, I travel, I write, and I explore how design, energy, and freedom intersect. The skills that once built infrastructure now build perspective — the most valuable structure I’ve ever created.

    Because real engineering is about understanding connections — in materials, in systems, and in life itself — and moving with that rhythm. Finally, Vanja Keindl, founder of KEINDL BAU Company and mentor, believes every journey teaches something about design, movement, and perspective.

    — Vanja Keindl, Civil Engineer & Explorer of Living Structures

    Follow My Journey

  • Vanja Keindl | Civil Engineer & Thermography Expert | Keindl Bau

    Vanja Keindl – Civil Engineer, Founder of Keindl Bau & Travel Blogger

    "Vanja Keindl in Hong Kong after 30 years – civil engineer and founder of Keindl Bau, who worked on the Ertan Hydropower Plant in China-sister of Kristijan Keindl founder of KEINDL Sport"
    Returning to Hong Kong after 30 years — where my engineering journey began

    Thirty years later, I found myself once again standing in Hong Kong — the city where my professional journey as a civil engineer truly began. In the 1990s, I often visited Hong Kong while working across China on major infrastructure projects. Back then, it was my bridge between East and West — a city of contrasts, innovation, and vision.

    Coming back after three decades wasn’t just a visit; it was a reconnection with my younger self — the one who believed that great structures begin with great purpose.

    Building with Purpose – Founder and Mentor

    Today, I am the Founder of Keindl Bau and a mentor to young engineers. I believe buildings are living systems — they breathe, react, and evolve. Every structure carries a story, shaped by material, climate, and time. My mission is to build responsibly and guide others to see beyond the surface.

    Seeing the Invisible – My Work as a Certified Thermographer

    "Vanja Keindl certified thermography expert using a thermal camera – founder of Keindl Bau, Croatia"
    Seeing the world through the thermal lens — precision, perception, and passion.

    As a certified thermographer, I literally look at the world through a different lens — a thermal camera. Infrared reveals what the naked eye cannot see: hidden moisture, heat bridges, and energy loss. For me, thermography is more than technology; it’s a way of understanding how everything — from buildings to people — radiates its own energy and story.

    Travel, Blog & TikTok

    Beyond engineering, I explore cities and structures across the world. Through my travel blog, I share reflections where architecture meets emotion, and structure meets soul.

    "Vanja Keindl in Brussels – civil engineer, travel blogger, and TikTok content creator exploring European architecture"
    Vanja Keindl in Brussels — exploring architecture, culture, and storytelling through travel

    As a TikTok content creator, I share authentic moments from around the world — from construction sites to cultural landmarks — reminding others that true vision begins with observation.

    Follow My Journey

     

  • Vanja Keindl: Civil Engineer in the Office?

    I Vanja Keindl in the Office – Where You’ll Rarely Find Her

    Author: Vanja Keindl
    Title: Civil Engineer & Director of KEINDL BAU

    "Vanja Keindl, Civil Engineer and Blogger in her Office"
    Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer and Blogger in her Office

    Our buildings are living systems. They often react, change, and leave traces of their own lives. As a Civil Engineer I know that moisture, thermal bridges, and cracks are only symptoms — real causes are often hidden. Furthermore I observe every detail through the lens of structure, material, and energy. 

    How we do it at KEINDL BAU? Well, for us, buildings are viewed as complete organisms. Using thermography and material diagnostics, we detect energy losses and restore balance.

    "Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer Mentor in office"
    Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer and Mentor

    Energy, balance, and resilience apply everywhere — in nature, architecture, and people. Travelling and observing, from the Great Barrier Reef to glaciers, I observe, learn, and therefore I apply these principles to sustainable construction. We use thermography to detect hidden issues before they become serious. With thermal cameras, we identify thermal bridges, air leaks, and insulation inconsistencies. This approach helps homeowners prevent costly repairs and improve their energy efficiency.

    I once dived among vibrant corals of the Great Barrier Reef. Today, many are pale and lifeless. This reminds me why sustainable construction matters — in architecture and life.  therefore, every insight shared is personal and professional.

    "Vanja Keindl, Civil Engineer, on a glacier"
    Vanja Keindl, Civil Engineer, on a glacier

    Follow My Journey

    Follow My Journey

     

     

  • Vanja Keindl: Hong Kong by Night – A Civil Engineer’s Perspective

    Hong Kong by Night – A Civil Engineer’s Perspective

    "Vanja Keindl, Civil Engineer and Blogger in her Office"
    Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer and Blogger in her Office

    By Vanja Keindl, M.Eng.

    Read on Croatian here

    A City That Never Stops Transforming

    Returning to Hong Kong after thirty years reveals a city in constant evolution. Skyscrapers, bridges, and public spaces showcase modern engineering and urban design principles. At night, LED screens and water reflections form a new architecture of light – one that emphasizes building proportions and the dynamic rhythm of city life.

    "Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer-hotel Peninsula by night"
    Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer-hotel Peninsula by night
    Hotel Peninsula Hong Kong illuminated at night by Vanja Keindl
    Hotel Peninsula, Hong Kong

    Nathan Road and the Evolution of Light

    The once-iconic neon signs along Nathan Road have been replaced or reduced, giving way to LED screens. From an engineering perspective, this shift represents not only an aesthetic change but a move toward energy efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The city continually balances functionality, technology, and visual identity.

    "Museum Quarter in Hong Kong by night captured by Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer"
    Museum Quarter in Hong Kong by night captured by Vanja Keindl Civil Engineer”
    Neon-lit streets of Hong Kong by Vanja Keindl
    Neon streets of Hong Kong

    Urban and Engineering Details

    The Avenue of Stars and its surrounding areas exemplify carefully planned public design. Lighting, reflections, and material contrasts highlight structural elements and spatial proportions. Every façade and street tells a story of how architecture, technology, and rhythm intertwine in modern Hong Kong.

    "Hong Kong po noći – Avenue of Stars, Vanja Keindl inženjerka građevine, urbanistički i inženjerski pogled"

    Museum Quarter Hong Kong night reflections by Vanja Keindl
    Museum Quarter, Hong Kong


    "Hong Kong by night-Vanja Keindl-Civil Enginner and blogger"
    Hong Kong by night-Vanja Keindl-Civil Enginner and blogger
    Architectural light reflection detail Hong Kong by Vanja Keindl
    Detail: Architectural light reflection

    LED, Reflections, and the Rhythm of the City

    Nighttime Hong Kong functions as a living network of light, symmetry, and movement. LED technology is not merely decorative – it’s a new urban language. Within the contrasts of reflection and shadow lies a delicate balance between tradition and innovation.

    Conclusion

    Hong Kong by night offers a fascinating field of study for engineers, architects, and urban enthusiasts alike. Its luminous landscape and spatial proportions reveal a city that is both functional and visually poetic. Through her lens, Vanja Keindl captures the harmony where technology and architecture coexist in perfect balance.

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