Forty of Australia's most talented designers will be showcased this week as part of the 2007 Australian International Furniture Fair being held in Darling Harbour.
The requirement for being included in The Edge 2007 - Design and Innovation Showcase is that the designers are `innovative' in their use and choice of material or design.
The Edge curator, Uli Hasel said the focus was on products that show a high degree of thought in form, function and feasibility.
"Innovation is an important aspect as we are constantly challenged by our environment on how to improve our quality of living," Hasel said.
"Designers are embracing CNC technologies (computer aided cutting) and we have several examples of this in 2007, such as Jo Philippsohn's Stripped Bare hat stand and floor lamp (NSW) and Roger Kelly's coffee table and Rove-w chair (NZ).
"Elegant and delicate stainless steel lines are paired with sophisticated upholstery in Amelia and Ella chairs by Keith Melbourne (WA) and the Horizon chair by Donald Holt (VIC). Craft is also a new element in design that has been rediscovered in pieces such as the Obie lounge by Irene Schneider (WA), winner of the Vivid Student Award, Furnitex 2006, and May's chair by Chalit Kongsuwan (TAS)," she said.
