Marc Newson (Architecture/Design Series)

Newson represents the generation of designers after Philippe Starck who show the same kind of versatility of talent - this adopted Londoner has tackled projects ranging from the lighting of the Sydney Opera House for the Olympics to the creation of restaurants and nightclubs in Tokyo. Newson's passion for design is grounded in a keen understanding of materials and processes. He's a design whiz-kid motivated by a hands-on approach: Newson is far more likely to learn by practice, by making an object, than by sitting behind a computer creating pleasing images of the form. His many imaginative works include an aluminium bicycle, a concept car for Ford, and an innovative Swiss watch. Later this year, Newson will unveil a line of furniture and housewares and will announce a major identity project for an international airline. The approachable, eager elegance of his style is suffused with an awareness of contemporary issues and values that allows Newson to surf through the current scene with ease.