The Design Institute of Australia launched the Top 10x10 series in 2006. Now in its 5th year, the theme for Top 6x6 was Design Icons.

Sue Carr joined five of Australia’s leading design professionals to present a personal selection of six inspirational icons as part of the State of Design Festivals Top 6x6 forum held on July 20.

Less Table by Jean Nouvel, 1994
Jean Nouvel has played with air, with line, with form and fold, managing to tie these individual elements into a sophisticated and utilitarian outcome that almost disappears into the fabric of any space in which it is placed.

Axiom Sculptures by Robert Owen, 2004 - 2007
At each hour of the day Owen’s 4D sculptures tell a different story as shadow, light and geometry play off the surfaces that touch or surround his pieces. Image courtesy of Robert Owen and Arc One Gallery, Melbourne

Porsche 911 Carrera, 1984
In design terms it is the purest form, its gussets and curvaceous shape, epitomises the Porsche brand. It is the ultimate style vehicle, no greater model created prior to or since has achieved its level of perfection.

Vivianna Bangle Watch for Georg Jensen by Vivianna Torun Bulow-Hube, 1962
I have worn this on my left wrist every day for the past 30 years. A beautiful, elegant watch that reminds me to live for the moment.

Modular Architecture
This must become the future of housing in Australia: quick build times, lower costs, less waste, quality materials and construction and environmentally responsible.

Apple iPad, 2010
The future of communication and so beautifully and simply designed, Apple Inc.’s iPad tablet has changed the portable PC market permanently.