about.
Architecture x Theology
At Studio Refill, we believe in transformation. Based in Utrecht, the Netherlands, we are a research & design studio specializing in conceptual design and creative research for NGOs, cultural and educational institutions, and for commercial real estate firms. Our track record extends beyond borders, with projects across the Netherlands, China, Hong Kong, Nepal, and Cambodia.
Studio Refill is led by Willem Jan de Hek, an architect and theologian with 20 years of experience in European and Asian real estate, consultancy, and architecture. His background in architecture, building engineering, and theology gives him a unique perspective on how spaces influence human experience, identity, and spirituality.
Our expertise lies in reimagining spaces with historical significance. We focus on the redevelopment of monumental structures in urban environments, breathing new life into heritage buildings while preserving their original essence. For us, architecture is more than a physical craft - it is a way to shape places of meaning that bridge past, present, and future.
For Willem Jan, design is not just a technical or aesthetic challenge - it is an opportunity to foster reflection, encounter, and community. This is why Studio Refill takes an interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with experts from various fields to craft thoughtful, future-proof solutions. Whether working on urban regeneration, adaptive reuse, or strategic design, our mission remains the same: to create spaces that not only serve communities and inspire people but also stand the test of time.
Architecture x Theology = Building the Future, by Learning from the Past!
