If you want to invest in future design classics, visit Design and Distribution Link (6/F Park Avenue Tower, 5 Moreton Terrace, Causeway Bay, tel: 2105 9339) for a look at Ettore Sottsass' Short Stories series. The Austrian-born architect and design god played a major international role in innovating design pre- and post-second world war. As well as a long list of designs and accolades, he is credited with inventing the first Italian electronic calculator while working for Olivetti in the 1950s. His latest project is Short Stories, an exclusive, limited-edition collection of 14 ceramics and glasses inspired by the work of the Aztecs. The colours the ancient people used were matt, light and almost dusty, observed Sottsass, and 'seemed to 'appear' rather than 'exist''. He set out to achieve something similar and his pieces, which include vases, fruit bowls and boxes, are in a class of their own. Although the actual objects of desire aren't in the Hong Kong showroom, there are pictures of them and orders can be placed (prices on application). However, because there is no quota for Hong Kong (or anywhere else in the world), the pieces are available on a first-come, first served basis and interested collectors are advised to be quick. Pictured: Picchio ceramic fruit bowl and Civetta ceramic vase.
