Intro
Hi, I’m Zak Boardman — an industrial designer based in the UK and a recent product design graduate from Nottingham Trent University. As a designer, I’m fascinated by the driving factors behind human behavior and how design can positively shape experiences, improving the way people connect with the world around them.
I strive to transform complex challenges into elegant, human-centered solutions that balance functionality, innovation, and aesthetic clarity. This design philosophy has guided my work throughout my studies and continues to inspire the way I approach each project.
In 2025, my commitment to thoughtful and impactful design was recognized at New Designers, where I was awarded both the KeyShot Award and the PriestmanGoode Award. Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep pushing the boundaries of design through creativity, purpose, and visual storytelling.
What sparked your interest in design?
My interest in design has always been driven by curiosity — both about the “why” behind human behavior and the mechanics of the world around me. As a child, I loved taking things apart to see how they worked and spent hours drawing and visualizing ideas. Combining this fascination with people and objects naturally led me to design, where I could explore human behavior, problem-solving, and creativity all in one.
I use KeyShot across the entire design process. I’m a big advocate for bringing my early stage designs into KeyShot to get a better feel for the design.
What are some of your favorite projects?
Two of my favorite projects from my final year explore how design can improve daily wellbeing and focus.
Focus tackles smartphone-related distractions, offering a mindful productivity system that balances digital access with intentional disconnection, helping users work with clarity and control.
Solace addresses Seasonal Affective Disorder with a user-centred light therapy solution, combining clinical-grade effectiveness with versatile, aesthetically considered design. Both projects reflect my interest in creating thoughtful, human-centred products that enhance everyday experiences by addressing real behavioral and lifestyle challenges.
Where in your process do you use KeyShot Studio?
I use KeyShot across the entire design process. I’m a big advocate for bringing my early stage designs into KeyShot to get a better feel for the design.
What are your favorite KeyShot Studio tools or features?
Studios and Colorways; a well-set up KeyShot file can be very efficient!
What advice would you give to someone interested doing what you do?
Ask questions and try to understand why things work the way they do — it helps shape thoughtful designs. Pair that curiosity with practical skills, and you’ll have a solid foundation to create work that really matters.
My interest in design has always been driven by curiosity — both about the “why” behind human behavior and the mechanics of the world around me.
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Zak Boardman designs human-centric solutions
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