Shai van Vlijmen

About Shai van Vlijmen

Expertise

Shai van Vlijmen is a biophilic architect and founder of NarrativA architects, a leading firm specialising in ecological and biobased architecture. For more than twenty years, he has been pioneering the development of sustainable design and construction strategies that are not only ecologically responsible, but also explicitly biobased and biophilic.

With a background in physics, Shai combines scientific precision with design vision: he understands the building physics properties of biobased materials in detail and translates that knowledge into innovative solutions for new construction and renovation. His projects, from passive houses to nature observatories, demonstrate how comfort, health and beauty can go hand in hand with sustainability.

System change

As an active member of the Association for Integral Bio-Logical Architecture (VIBA), Shai is committed to the structural transition to biobased construction in the Netherlands. He develops and gives lectures and training courses that contribute to this change, including the popular three-day course Better Biobased and the Masterclass Biobased Construction in Practice (in collaboration with the BNA Academy). These training courses are highly regarded within the Dutch construction sector for their practical applicability and inspiring content.

Inspiration

Shai not only designs biobased buildings, but also works on a broader mission: knowledge sharing, inspiration and collaboration. He openly shares his expertise with colleagues, educational institutions and companies, and his enthusiastic presentations and concrete examples bridge the gap between ideals and practice.

The biophilic narrative, which reflects real life in an extraordinary way by connecting countless aspects of it, should not be reduced to a superficial sales pitch. It requires knowledge, content and integrity.

At a time when the sustainable transition is more urgent than ever, an inspirational session with Shai offers insight, energy and direction. A real must-have for anyone who wants to redefine the future of construction.

Shai has given lectures at municipalities, educational institutions, (construction) companies, architectural firms and conferences such as Houtdag, SPRYG Real Estate Academy and many more.