The field of hybrid organic-inorganic materials has reached a stage of ripeness that is beginning to make possible extraordinary new developments. On the one hand the field has witnessed a trend towards the design of functionality in hybrids materials, while broadening spectacularly the variety of hybrid combinations explored. On the other hand, improved understanding and control of the chemistry, processing and microstructure of these versatile nanocomposite systems announce a new landscape of opportunities in dealing with increasingly complex chemistries and materials.