Meet Jansen Che, our new Studio Lead
November 2026
Jansen Che has recently joined AJC as a Studio Lead in our Living Sector. He brings over 12 years of experience across leading architectural practices, including JPW and Lippmann.
Alongside his work in practice, Jansen is a Lecturer and Course Convener at UNSW. He is also an Assessor for the NSW Architects Registration Board.
We caught up with Jansen to learn more about his architectural journey, approach to design and what he's looking forward to at AJC.
What drew you to AJC, and what are you most looking forward to in your new role?
My connection with AJC goes back to my university days. One of the directors was a guest juror for my final-year design project. Since then, I’ve continued to follow AJC’s work and the people behind it throughout my career.
I’m excited to now be part of a practice with such a strong history and diverse portfolio of work. I’m particularly looking forward to collaborating with talented people and bringing my own experience and perspective to the team. I also look forward to continuing to challenge myself creatively.
What has been one of the most rewarding experiences in your architectural journey so far?
Winning the Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival international design competition in Ukraine was certainly one of the highlights of my architectural journey. It was a personal project that I undertook independently. I was driven by a genuine interest in the brief and the opportunity to help revive a war-torn city.
What made the experience particularly special was having Lord Norman Foster chair the jury. I have admired his work and contribution to architecture for a long time. Having him recognise my design was incredibly rewarding.
Alongside your architectural practice, you’re also involved in teaching at UNSW. How does this influence your approach to design?
I’m passionate about my teaching role at UNSW because the courses I teach closely align with my design philosophy. This is particularly true of my interest in architectural tectonics.
We explore building materials, structure, construction detailing and sustainability. A key focus is bridging the gap between conceptual design thinking and the realities of construction.
I encourage students to see that the creative process can extend beyond concept design and through to construction. Technical considerations can shape the design along the way.
Whether it’s understanding how a façade is supported, how its joints are resolved or how it responds to the elements, these practical considerations can drive architectural expression.
I believe some of the most interesting design opportunities emerge when creativity and technical thinking come together.
Great to have you on the team, Jansen. We look forward to seeing the experience and perspective you bring to AJC.
