The once well defined boundaries between art and science are disappearing. Experimental innovation is the buzzword for both as supersynthetic culture challenges all our sensibilities. Depletion of planetary resources encourages us to look at unnatural materials in new and innovative ways - cross industry collaboration is essential to this new mood of dynamism and animation.

This state of flux is a defining characteristic of the present - a sensation of constant movement, transition and work in progress. Rapid prototyping and computer generated construction allow forms and surfaces to be created that are complex, pixellated, meshed, crystalline and perforated. Karim Rashid and Zaha Hadid are at the forefront of these innovative developments of form and material.

Our growing infatuation with polymers and resins in retina shocking colours means we can celebrate the synthetic and truly enjoy engineered materials. Furniture exhibits ultra smooth lines and curvilinear form - fluid and flowing, moulded and seamless - it appears to grow from the walls or floor. Fabrics include hi-tech polyesters, glazed vinyls and laminated space age combinations that intrigue the eye with their sheer smoothness.

The acid fresh palette seems to radiate, flow and glow - to move in ways that are both joyous and unrestrained. The neutral supremacy of black and white has changed - the Apple iPod has swapped fashion white for an explosion of clean chroma. Pure colour is the new material, fused and forged into new forms and finishes.

Here shades are intense, fizzy and futuristic - solid saturated reds and purples are played off against luminous and pulsating pinks, yellows and turquoises. Vivid pastels and almost fluorescent, energetic optical effects explode, irradiate and shine - this kinetic approach to colour signifies a detox from the depression that has undermined our spirits.

This synthetic, stylistic and chromatic approach creates places for living, working and playing with an overriding emotional energy - a symbolic embracement of life with a euphoric and infectious zeal.