Beijing is gearing up to play a leading role in the story of "China design" by reaching out to global design institutes and talents.

The newly opened Design Service Center (DSC) in Gehua Beijing Creative Center (BCC) hopes to entice designers from abroad, by providing them with not only office space, but also with comprehensive local support.

"One major concern of international designers is copyright protection," says Wang Yudong, director of BCC.

"There is this misunderstanding that the Chinese government pays little attention to protecting intellectual property. The real problem is many foreign designers don't know whom to approach, and there are few out there to tell them."

He says DSC will link designers with multilingual law consultancy services and also provide experienced assistants to help with business negotiations, translations and other such services that will help tide over cultural misunderstandings and foster greater efficiency.

At the same time, upcoming Chinese designers can acquire a broader vision and access opportunities abroad by working with their international counterparts.

The center will function as a training base for young professionals as well as for university majors in art and design.

Wang says resident designers must run at least one workshop during their stay as a payback for the center's services. For instance, they can work with a small group of local designers every day, or they can hold lectures and give presentations to larger groups. They are also encouraged to hold forums, where designers can exchange ideas.

The center will cooperate with international organizations, such as ICOGRADA and other international associations of designers, to select outstanding designers who wish to expand their business to China.

"Many international designers have long seen Hong Kong as a gateway to the mainland market. I think now it's time they walk in bravely and launch a quicker start-up here in Beijing," Wang says.