Zachary Manuel

Zachary Manuel (they/them) is a Lecturer at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), specializing in design education within the Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects department. They hold a Master's degree in Interior Architecture and Product Design from Kansas State University and have professional experience with major corporations like IKEA, Target, Google, and Kaiser Permanente. Their work emphasizes empathy-driven design, prioritizing marginalized users and future generations.

• Education: M.S. in Interior Architecture & Product Design (Kansas State University)
• Professional Highlights: Award-winning furniture designs, including the Djembe Collection (Best of Year 2022) and Trikaya Lounge (IWF Winner 2016)

Research interests focus on sustainable design practices, empathetic design methodologies, and the intersection of creativity with ethical responsibility. Courses taught include Sketching for Designed Objects, emphasizing technical drawing skills and design ideation through historical and contemporary examples.

Zach’s work has been featured in Innovation Magazine (2024) and Passion for Woodworking Magazine (2016). Awards include the Allen Hastings Outstanding Product Design Award and recognition for fostering inclusive design approaches.