Who? Italian-trained architect and designer Paola Navone is associated with interiors, furniture collections, ceramics and textiles, although she may be best known for her innovative combinations of materials, such as industrial plastics with rough woods and silver accented glass. What makes her tick? Although some label her work as east/west fusion, she refuses to define herself by any one rubric. Navone claims her inspiration comes from her life experiences, many gained from her travels, including a 20-year period of residing part-time in Hong Kong. Who has she worked with? Navone's collaborations read like a list of who's who in the European design world. From rhodoid (a plastic) and metal cake stands and trays for Alessi to furniture collections for Casamilano and Roche Bobois, to a crystal chandelier for Swarovski to Illy concept coffee bars, Navone's signature style is well established with European high-design brands. What does she work in? 'Materials are like food to me,' she says, 'and I like all different cuisines.' This means Indonesian teak may be served up with Italian acrylic. 'Sometimes two materials seem in conflict, but after we mix them, they look very nice,' she says. What is her design philosophy? Mix and match; a celebration of converging styles and materials. 'The new design period we are entering is very liberated,' she says. 'After 10 years of minimalism, there is so much more freedom.' In terms of home design, Navone sees this translating into a new eclecticism. 'Minimalism left the legacy of simplicity,' Navone says. 'The creativity is in how people exercise this attitude in their homes.' Where can I see her stuff? Lane Crawford and the Italian Trade Commission's Celebration of Italian Lifestyle (until October 23) at Lane Crawford (IFC Mall, Central) will have a space devoted to Navone's designs. 'There will be a sofa [Gervasoni, bottom right; $21,000], some vases, lamps and other accessories [such as candlestick holders, above right, $4,900 for two],' she says. Also on show will be her collection of ceramic plants. 'These are for people like me, who don't remember to water their plants,' she says. 'We call it 'green thumb' [pollice verde, in Italian].' For inquiries call 2118 3388.