Designers Nic Banks (left) and Mark Kelly, both directors of Atelier Pacific, at work in their studio

The work and working styles of some of Hong Kong's top designers will be on show to the public in February.

Designers Saturday, taking place on February 22, is a chance for visitors from Hong Kong and overseas to view the studios that are clustered in and around the upper Central district of the city. Many design studios are located in the Soho area, which is known for its lively nightlife, low-rise buildings and bohemian atmosphere.

"There is a real community of designers around this area, a really eclectic selection," said co-designer Nic Banks of Atelier Pacific, a Hong Kong-based design firm.

"It really shows that Hong Kong is a world city when it comes to design. It has changed from a producer of plastic toys to a strong, service-oriented city producing some interesting designs."

Mr Banks said more than 30 studios will be participating in Designers Saturday, ranging from multinational organisations to one-man-band designers. Between them, they design everything from office interiors to books and will be offering a behind-the-scenes look.

One of Hong Kong's best known designers, Barney Cheng, has a studio on nearby Wyndham Street, where he hosts clients such as international movie star Michelle Yeoh and mainland actress Gong Li. Among his most famous creations was Gong's wedding gown and a stunning dress for Yeoh's appearance at the Hollywood Oscars as a cast member of the award winning movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

	More than 30 studios will participate in Designers Saturday, when visitors can go behind the scenes to view the work of Hong Kong designers

Mr Cheng is likely to take part in the open house day, allowing the public to see the space where he creates elaborate gowns for both movie stars and Hong Kong socialites. The starting point for the tour is the Fringe Club, where participants can pick up a map showing the exact location of the various studios.

Last year's inaugural event attracted more than 3,000 people, who were encouraged to chat to designers about their work. Mr Banks is convinced that the Hong Kong design industry is strong, with the western world looking more to Asia for inspiration.

"If you look at the book shops in London or New York they are full of books on feng shui," he said.  "I think people are looking more and more to this part of the world to see what is trendy. We have some good designers here in Hong Kong, a diverse selection."

More details will be posted on the web site at www.designerssaturday.com.hk