Jan Willem Hoftijzer

Jan Willem Hoftijzer is a researcher and educator at the Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology. He is affiliated with the Department of Human-Centered Design and specializes in design communication, sketching, visualization, and DIY design practices. He teaches courses such as Advanced Visualisation, Sketching and Visualization, and Design Communication, contributing significantly to design education at TU Delft.

His research focuses on the role of sketching in design processes, frameworks for enhancing designer agency, and democratizing design through DIY methodologies. He explores how design can foster awareness and responsible consumption, particularly in fashion and product design. His recent publications highlight innovations in transforming sketching videos into interactive tutorials and developing frameworks for design agency.

The most recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in leveraging sketching and visualization techniques for educational and sustainable design purposes. His work bridges design theory and practice, emphasizing user empowerment, creative expression, and responsible innovation.

Scientific Awards:

• IDE Lustrum Design Award 1994

Jan Willem Hoftijzer advises on design education and practice, integrating industry experience into academic teaching. He is currently engaged in ancillary activities as a Designer/Product Developer (2025–2027), indicating active collaboration with industry. There is no mention of specific grants, but his applied research suggests potential industry-funded or educational innovation projects.

He is associated with the Human-Centered Design and Human Factors research groups at TU Delft, contributing to the faculty’s mission of creating meaningful, user-focused design solutions through both teaching and research.