Jan van Dijk has received the Outstanding Contribution to Architecture award at the Building and Architect of the Year Awards 2026, earning the programme's most prestigious individual honour in recognition of a career that has shaped high-quality, human-centred communities across Ireland and internationally.

With decades of experience leading complex and award-winning projects, van Dijk has built a body of work grounded in design rigour, urban development, and a clear understanding of the commercial and environmental realities that define contemporary practice. His approach consistently places people at the centre of the built environment, delivering projects that endure in both function and character.

Beyond practice, van Dijk has made a significant contribution to architectural education over more than 20 years, mentoring future generations of architects and helping to raise the standard of design thinking across the profession. That combination of sustained professional achievement and educational commitment is precisely what the Outstanding Contribution award exists to honour.

His work reflects a deep engagement with sustainability and innovation, underpinned by consistent leadership across a profession that demands both creative ambition and practical delivery.

The Building and Architect of the Year Awards 2026 ceremony took place on Thursday, 23rd April 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry.

View the full list of winners and explore the programme at the official awards website.