China Contemporary
“China Contemporary” by Xiao Dan Wang, published by Thames & Hudson in 2008, offers an insightful exploration of the dynamic landscape of contemporary Chinese design. This edition, comprising 261 pages, presents a detailed examination of 35 innovative examples in architecture, interior design, and decorative arts, accompanied by striking photography by Michael Freeman. The book is structured into four main sections—Continuity, Colour, Conversion, and Crossover—each highlighting the evolution of design in China’s leading urban centers.
Readers will discover how traditional Chinese society influences modern aesthetics, with a focus on the vibrant reinterpretation of cultural elements through contemporary materials and techniques. The book delves into the significance of color in design, the refurbishment of older Communist-era buildings, and the blending of Western influences with local traditions. Additionally, a directory of key individuals and organizations enhances the survey, providing context to the exciting design projects emerging in today’s China.
Official synopsis Publisher
China is booming, not only in its rapidly growing economy, but also through innovation in decorative and fine arts, interior design and architecture. China Contemporary showcases 35 examples of the new wave of Chinese design through the stunning photography of Michael Freeman and the perceptive commentary and interviews of Chinese journalist Xiao Dan Wang.
Divided into four main sections (Continuity, Colour, Conversion, Crossover) this is the first major survey of the new directions in style and design taken by the architects, designers and homeowners of China’s leading urban centres.
Continuity – Chinese society and its associated arts have long been steeped in tradition. In contemporary China the traditions are being expressed in vibrant new ways and materials.
Colour – The use of colour has always held profound significance in traditional Chinese culture; here, it is illustrated primarily in the context of contemporary design and materials.
Conversion – Factories, apartment blocks and other older buildings of the Communist era are rapidly being refurbished in visually exciting ways.
Crossover – Two striking aspects of the new China are a willingness to embrace influences from other cultures, especially the West, and a new vigour in promoting Chinese art and design outside China.
A directory of individuals, organizations and locations completes this survey of some of the most advanced and exciting design projects in the new China.
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