Ian Montgomery is a designer & educator based in San Francisco specializing in structural packaging and material-driven design systems.

With a foundation in packaging, Ian works across packaging, editorial, product, and spatial design. His work is informed by a long-standing curiosity about how things are made, the future of sustainable manufacturing, and California’s tradition of experimental, human-centered design.

Ian previously founded and operated Guacamole Airplane, a studio focused on sustainable packaging and alternative material strategies. Earlier in his career, he worked in the art departments at Chubbies Shorts, Areaware, and Mollusk Surf Shop, experiences that shaped his interest in approachable, culturally grounded design. He has also taught in the Art & Architecture Department at the University of San Francisco.

Alongside his commercial practice, Ian designs toys and children’s environments at the Department of Birds and Frogs.

He is available for select freelance and collaborative projects, particularly those centered on structural packaging, material exploration, and design research.

Inquiries: ian@ianmontgomery.com