C Jacob Payne is a designer whose work spans fabrication, interaction, and spatial design. He studied architecture and environmental studies at Yale and is currently completing his Master of Architecture at MIT. His projects integrate digital fabrication and electronics to prototype AI-driven objects and narrative experiences. His research focuses on the preservation and reconstruction of overlooked Black architectural heritage.
At MIT, Jacob collaborates with the Design Intelligence Lab and has taught fabrication in the architecture woodshop. Professionally, he has contributed to projects with 2x4, LAUN Studio, Burr Salvatore Architects, and Julia Esque Studio, spanning architecture, furniture, and industrial design.