A cross-cultural innovation: The methodology for adapting Moku-Zogan techniques to contemporary furniture design development

This research explores how the traditional Japanese Moku-Zogan wood inlay technique can be adapted to reflect Malaysian cultural identity in contemporary furniture design. It examines how cross-cultural elements influence creative design thinking and innovation. Using a two-phase methodology, the study first analyses design development through two key frameworks: the Biomimicry Design Process (BDP) and the Hybrid Art Identity (HAI) Framework. In the second phase, the research assesses how these theories translate into practice by observing 10 design students over a year-long project. Pre- and post-design surveys measure changes in their thinking. The study offers valuable insights into integrating cultural heritage with modern design, contributing to a deeper understanding of cross-cultural innovation in the design process.