Mastering Architecture, One LEGO at a Time
At just 25 years old, Jacques van Rensburg is living proof that childhood passions can spark a thriving career. Soon to be a proud Master of Architecture graduate at the upcoming May Graduation Ceremony, Jacques has been recognised for submitting the Best Sixth-Year Master’s Thesis in his cohort.
His thesis, inspired by the Onyoka necklace—a piece of traditional Owambo jewellery—reimagined how Namibia's museums could tell stories of indigenous knowledge, culture, and making. The intricate process through which the necklace is made, as well as its profound cultural significance, and rich historical context became the lens through which he reimagined contemporary museum typologies in Namibia. "I wanted to move beyond the static display of colonial artefacts," he explained. The work proposes a new vision for cultural representation along the Swakopmund Promenade, where the juxtaposition of colonial history and indigenous performance creates a living, breathing narrative, he added.
A childhood passion
Jacques’ passion for architecture was born early. What began as an obsession with LEGO blocks evolved into a love for designing virtual worlds in Minecraft. By high school, he was experimenting with 3D modelling software, bridging the gap between childhood curiosity and professional ambition. "Those early experiences were the clear catalysts for the architectural passion that drives me," he shared.
While completing his Master’s thesis was a deeply emotional milestone, he said the moment he “finally clicked 'submit' felt less like a triumphant achievement and more like the quiet exhale after holding my breath for six relentless years”.
It took a village
Faith, family, friends, and mentors played vital roles along the way. Jacques credits the unwavering encouragement and support of his parents, siblings, peers, and supervisors — including Dr Madelein Stoffberg, Prof Jaco Wasserfall, and Mr Jens Wiedow — with helping him persevere and achieve his academic goals.
As NUST celebrates its 10th anniversary, Jacques said the thought of contributing to the University’s evolution fills him with joy. “What makes me particularly proud to be a NUST graduate at this moment is the unwavering dedication and genuine care of the lecturers within the Department of Architecture. They are truly exceptional educators, and their commitment is invaluable,” he added.
Looking ahead
Jacques – who is employed at a local architecture firm – dreams of creating spaces that see Namibia’s many cultures reflected authentically in the built environment. “Ultimately, my hope is to foster an environment where different cultures have greater freedom to shape their own spaces to organically create their own 'architecture’.”
NUST offers degrees in architecture from undergraduate to postgraduate level, under the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.
