Justus van der Hoven

Justus van der Hoven is a Johannesburg-born architect turned property developer and award-winning architectural filmmaker. With a background in architecture and a passion for storytelling, Justus brings a unique, multidisciplinary lens to the built environment—one that merges design, development, and visual narrative.

After qualifying as an architect, Justus spent nearly a decade in professional practice before co-founding ARC, a studio that evolved to include property development. He quickly found his stride in taking projects from concept to completion—assembling sites, crafting designs, securing finance, and overseeing delivery. His transition into full-time development was marked by the successful transformation of the historic Firestation building in Rosebank into a 10,000m² commercial precinct—delivered in partnership with Tricolour Properties. The project’s high-impact outcome affirmed his instinct for uncovering value and delivering thoughtful, high-performing spaces.

Today, Justus continues to evolve his creative practice through architectural filmmaking, a medium that allows him to explore the emotional and spatial qualities of architecture in motion. His films—recognized with awards for their narrative depth and cinematic craft—are an extension of his design ethos: intuitive, immersive, and grounded in place. This work has become a key focus of his current multidisciplinary approach, offering a new way to communicate the atmosphere, story, and intention behind the built form.

Through his educational platform, Justus also shares insights into property development with architects, creatives, and aspiring developers. With a practical, creative voice, he aims to demystify the process, foster autonomy, and inspire others to shape their own paths—at the intersection of design, storytelling, and entrepreneurship.