Jakob van Rijs: Should Architecture Challenge Conventional Concepts of Form and Function?

Design Perspectives

In this episode of Design Perspectives, Jakob van Rijs, founding partner of ‘MVRDV Architects’, gives an insight into the world of contemporary architecture. The Dutch architect emphasises the importance of pushing boundaries, embracing innovation and maintaining a sense of curiosity in design while tackling critical challenges such as sustainability and urban change. Van Rijs explores how architects can challenge conventional notions of form and function and emphasises the need to reconcile practical constraints with bold, forward-thinking concepts. The conversation will cover topics such as the adaptive reuse of buildings, the role of technology in design and the responsibility of architects in creating resilient, human-centred spaces. From his perspective, van Rijs shows how architectural practice can be both a creative endeavour and a strategic approach to solving complex urban challenges.

📌 Three Takeaways:

Embracing Innovation and Transformation in Architecture 🏗️

Architecture must challenge conventions and explore new possibilities. Van Rijs emphasizes that curiosity and a willingness to experiment are essential—even after decades of experience. This mindset is particularly important when transforming existing buildings, where bold yet thoughtful solutions are needed. The goal is not provocation for its own sake but reimagining spaces, materials, and urban environments in innovative ways. Whether through striking color choices or the use of sustainable materials, true innovation comes from pushing boundaries while remaining purposeful.

Sustainability as a Holistic Strategy ♻️

Sustainability in architecture goes beyond simply reducing carbon emissions. Van Rijs advocates for a more nuanced approach that balances longevity, resource efficiency, and urban density. Sustainable thinking must be embedded from the outset of a project—without compromising design quality or user experience. Future-proof architecture emerges when environmental responsibility, social engagement, and technological innovation are considered together.

The Architect’s Role in Shaping Future Cities 🌆

Architects play a crucial role in creating livable cities. In the face of climate change and shifting social dynamics, they are not just designers of buildings but visionaries and problem-solvers. Van Rijs sees their mission as developing concepts that inspire decision-makers and demonstrate new possibilities. Architecture can make cities more resilient, interactive, and human-centered—by designing spaces that foster community, adapt to evolving needs, and contribute positively to the urban landscape.

🗣 Guest: Jakob van Rijs Founding Partner/Principle Architect MVRDV, Professor of Architectural Design at TU Berlin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-van-rijs-b5a83b6/ https://mvrdv.com/about/team/2/jacob-van-rijs

🗣 Host: Martin Pauli Director & Global Leader Circular Economy Services at Arup https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-pauli-1aa06974/ https://www.arup.com/contact-us/martin-pauli/

Design Perspectives – the podcast of the German Design Council. How can we use design as a lever for transformation and economic success? We talk about this with personalities from the fields of design, brand management and architecture. They give us insights into how transformation, sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand in a company. Interesting, informative, inspiring.

Chapters (00:01:12) Evolution of Architectural Practice (00:04:19) Sustainability and Design Challenges (00:19:20) Transformation and Reuse of Buildings (00:35:18) Innovation and Technological Challenges (00:42:52) Future of Architecture