Jan van Schaik’s approach to the practice of architecture emphasises the cultural and communal nature of spaces and structures. This advocacy of the importance of the public to public spaces is manifest in his numerous projects including The Centre for Ideas at the Victorian College of the Arts, The Australian Wildlife Health Centre at the Healesville Sanctuary and the commercial design of a chain of confectionary stores.

Jan is a director of Minifie van Schaik Architects and a lecturer and PHD candidate at RMIT University. He is the current chair of the Melbourne City Council Creative Spaces Working Group which manages, curates and develops affordable space for the creative industries across Victoria and is also involved in the World Architecture Workshop, which uses professional and institutional knowledge to unravel intractable global urban issues.

His work is awarded, published and exhibited both locally and internationally.