A couple of decades ago, interior design in Australia might have been described as timid. Today, exuberant colour palettes, bold designs and experimentation adorn our interiors and serve as an expression of what it means to live in Australia. These designs take advantage of the connection between indoor and outdoor space, which is a significant, and somewhat envied, part of Australian life.

From the dark and moody aesthetic of British-born interior designer Garth Barnett to the minimalist designs of Arnoldlane, as well as Carr Design Group’s emphasis on local identity and environmental sustainability, this is a comprehensive and inspiring reference of interior design in Australia and New Zealand today.

Mitchell Oakley Smith (Thames and Hudson, 2011) pp 240, rrp $75.00.