What it means to live in modern Australia conveys something different to all Australians. We all have remarkably different lifestyles and very distinct needs when it comes to the way we go about our daily lives, which consequently reflects the way we design our living spaces. In this book, I have scoured our Australian architectural landscape to discover some of the homes that have been carefully tailored to meet the owners' individual requirements and desires, as well as homes that have a distinctive 'best' factor. Modern Australian architecture has taken a more advanced approach to design in recent years, with many homes emerging that are truly unique and reflective of Australia's culture and values. As a result, many Australian practices are beginning to expand their influence overseas. In this book, I have included a broad range of architectural styles. These styles reflect a hunger in Australia for living spaces that are unique in form and function, telling those who enter them a little bit about who we are. This volume has been created for both industry specialists and for those who appreciate good design. It is pitched at design savvy readers who are looking beyond the mainstream and aiming to establish new rules and trends, with the goal of creating living spaces that illustrate who they are. I hope that the insights shared by some of Australia's finest Architects and building designers will both enliven you and inspire you to aim for greater living design. Gary Takle - Editor