Roderick “Rod” Engleberg graduated with a BFA in designed objects and sculpture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He then worked as a professional cabinetmaker and furniture maker in Chicago for 12 years, before settling down in Asheville with his wife, Alia, in 2017.

As a student, Rod, drew inspiration from furniture makers, such as George Nakashima, Sam Maloof and Wendell Castle. Rod loves the various ways in which wood can be freely manipulated. One can machine it precisely or sculpt it like an artist, but it always retains an inherent natural beauty. He’s always admired the skill and craft involved in working with wood as an ancient and timeless tradition.