3deluxe,an interdisciplinary design collective of communications (3deluxe graphics)and interior (3deluxe interior)designers,define their approach as such "We treat graphic design like architecture and architecture like graphic design "..3deluxe,an interdisciplinary design collective of communications (3deluxe graphics)and interior (3deluxe interior)designers,define their approach as such "We treat graphic design like architecture and architecture like graphic design ". Somewhere between popular culture and applied arts,between surface and space,the advantages of this reciprocal inspiration become ob- vious,clearly showing in their graphic and product design for fashion, music and sports (Visionaire,Fanatic Boards),exhibitions,spatial pro- ductions (SCAPE youth and media pavilion at the Expo 2000),trade fair stands (Volkswagen,MTV),themed entertainment or architectural pro- jects. Often deconstructionist in nature the (interior)design projects displa a fundamental interest in the painstaking exploration of new techniques and materials,conceptual consolidation and clarit. From the sensitive combination of flexible,almost weightless materials and carefully honed lighting scenarios 3deluxe fashion amorphous,elastic,bionic hitech objects and spaces,illustrating the perfect interaction of two-and three-dimensional spatial concepts and design. At the same time 3deluxe graphics are orderl and clean without being sterile,boring or trend-conscious. This also becomes clear in the struc- ture of "projects ",their first book,which introduces their most signifi- cant projects. The luxurious volume depicts and describes graphics,spatial situations and exhibits in a way that allows a simultaneousl intellectual and sen- sual reception. The press release from publisher Die Gestalten Verlag describe 3Deluxe as ?an interdisciplinary design collective of communications (3deluxe graphics) and interior (3deluxe interior) designers who define their approach as, We treat graphic design like architecture and architecture like graphic design. I would have to say that this description effectively sums up this publication of (surprise, surprise) the same fancy three-dimensional name. 3Deluxe spans several recent projects of the afore mentioned design group of the same name. The general concept for this publication and the exhibit it is derived from seems to be based on interaction and interpretation. The artwork is a study in artificial environments whether they be examples of fantastical interior design or abstract printed media. ?ÄúThese emotive images imbue what were predominantly temporary projects with a sense of duration - in the medium of print they serve to have an impact beyond the moment of their occurrence. Yada- yada. It's more of that 3D eye candy that the kids like so much these days. 3Deluxe is laced with gorgeous color plates and transparencies that further the overall concept that design is not flat nor a static entity. It is partitioned into areas of abstract 3D artwork and typography, conceptual interior design and photographs from the Expo.02 exhibition. There are some interesting overlaps between the categories as the transparencies come into play and the effect at times works quite well. The categories also overlap conceptually interpreting various concepts of architecture, music, typography, industrial design and printed media. All of the artwork is infused with a spatial quality that links to the central theme and helps the work dodge the wanky nature that some 3d design can take on. Not to say that I was wholly satisfied by all of what I saw as I'm still recovering from the 80's rock video feel of some of the artwork. The price tag of 70 bucks USD is slightly off putting so I'd say it was for only the 3D completist but the idea behind it makes for a good read. 3Deluxe works as a study in concepts and is for those who are looking for the occasional dose of eye candy. It also works as an interesting companion piece to the Swiss exhibition and I suggest taking the time to view the included DVD that guides the reader through visuals from the Expo. For those of us long distance viewers not lucky enough to have the opportunity to see the exhibition itself it is a tasty treat indeed. www. allmaple. com , issue 4, 2002-08-08