The Asian countries seek to dominate global markets not only in the areas of science, technology and management, but also in the area of design, which is playing an increasingly crucial role in their strategic economics plans. One of their clear trends is the conscious use of traditional themes in combination with contemporary styles. Whether kimonos or packaging, Shinto shrines or a computer design, the viewer is stimulated by a wealth of inspiring visual stimuli. The culture and heritage of Asia is defined by this equal and simultaneous incorporation of the old and the new.

In addition to Asia, his book also sheds light on Australia, a continent of extremes. This perspective is also firmly established in the consciousness of Australian art and production, featured here through a selection of young designers that apply energy and a fresh approach to reinvent objects of everyday use.

This book presents an overview of the current trends of the young Asian-Pacific design scene. Though the featured works, ideas and products vary very much from each other, they exemplify one thing for sure: the initiated dialogue between cultures and across national borders is increasingly gaining in importance.