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Varun Maniar (1998) is a designer and fabricator based in Oakland, CA. After graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2022, his interests have branched out into furniture design and sculpture which he pursues during his free time.
Varun adopts a hands-on approach that is driven by a deep fascination with materials. While the specific tools available to him may influence the formal nature of his work, he always aims to express materials in their most raw and honest form. Lines along extruded stock material, saw-cut marks or the texture resulting from sand casting are all examples of how 'imperfections' in the material and process can contribute to the narrative of how a piece came together.
Circular design is achieved through a disciplined emphasis on tectonics. This design process leads to the creation of beautiful and long-lasting objects that are easy to assemble, disassemble and service.
In fall 2025, Varun will begin the SMArchS Architectural Design program at MIT.
(Un)painted Chair, Wanted Design, Group Exhibition, New York Design Week (2025)
Marina Chair, Wanted Design, Group Exhibition, New York Design Week (2024)
California Polytechnic State University SLO Bachelors of Architecture (2022)
Pulmo, Isola Design District, Milan Design Week (2022)
Marina Chair, Vellum, Group Exhibition, California Polytechnic State University SLO (2022)
Pulmo, SIT Furniture Design Award (2021)
23 Dresser, Interior Design Best of Year Awards (2021)