Decorex Cape Town’s changing landscape of design
Sustainability and the future of design takes centre stage at this year’s expo
After a highly successful revival in 2022, Decorex Cape Town is poised to make an impressive comeback. Created in partnership with industry leaders Samsung, Plascon and Lexus, the expo will feature an extensive line-up of over 200 premium brands, across design, décor and lifestyle. The event will take place from 22-25 June at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). In addition, the inaugural Cape Town Decor & Design Week will be held across the Mother City from the 19-25 June, setting the scene for Decorex.
With sustainability and the future of design taking centre stage, this year’s expo reflects the changing landscape of design as it pertains to social responsibility, technology and the environment. “We believe that design is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape the future,” says Sandra Barrow, Decorex Africa’s portfolio director, emphasising the expo’s vision.
The Future of Design is a dynamic exploration of the next wave of creativity and innovation. It comprises The Future of Design Exhibition and The Future of Design Studio, along with interactive workshops, live demonstrations and enlightening presentations by creative visionaries.
The exhibition, situated adjacent to the studio, will showcase ten captivating exhibitors across the design and lifestyle sectors, covering various themes from next-gen talent to rediscovered food sources.
“The objective of the Future of Design Exhibition is to create networking opportunities and a toolkit for action, as well as explore the wider social, ecological and cultural context in which we operate,” says Bielle Bellingham, Decorex Africa’s executive creative director. She adds, “Our curated line-up will cover various topics, including sustainability and circularity, the omniverse and metaverse, bio fabrication, Web 3.0, design activism, transdisciplinary co-creation and the nuances of African design. By sorting the signal from the noise, we aim to accelerate positive change.”
The Future of Design Exhibition and Studio are brought to life in collaboration with seating partner Wunders, enhancing the overall experience.
To take a significant step towards sustainability, Decorex Africa has partnered with an innovative start-up CURBON, which is committed to minimising carbon footprints.
Attendees of Decorex Cape Town and the upcoming Decorex Joburg have the opportunity to play an active role in combating climate change by voluntary adding a small contribution towards carbon credits when purchasing tickets online or at the entrance.
This unprecedented initiative makes these events the first décor and design trade shows in the country to embrace this crucial endeavour, exemplifying Decorex Africa’s dedication to fostering sustainability.
The funds raised by attendees will support four climate-change projects in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces, including Stellenbosch Community Recycling, Kuyasa in Khayelitsha, ReCarbon Hermanus, and ReCarbon Uitenhage (Kariega). These projects contribute to offsetting carbon emissions while also driving socioeconomic development through crucial avenues like job creation, community empowerment and poverty alleviation.
To further highlight their commitment to sustainable design practices, Decorex extended an open-call to designers to submit their sustainably crafted chairs as part of a special showcase in the central restaurant area.
Selected designers include Andrea Kleinloog of Hesse Kleinloog, Jon Case of ARRCC, Matthew Dasneves, Sanri Pienaar, Rupert Green, Hannerie Visser, Joe Paine and Bofred, among others.
Moreover, Decorex Cape Town is set to solidify its position as a front-runner in culinary advancements and innovations, having already established itself as the African continent’s trendsetter in kitchen design for both residential and commercial spaces. Notably, the Samsung Bespoke Cooking Theatre will feature live demonstrations by local chefs, including Izak & Wessel, the winners of My Kitchen Rules 2021 from Gather Curated, Glam Foodie, Food Jams, Dimo Simatos from Davidoff Café, Meals with Mash and many others. This showcase promises to provide abundant inspiration for home chefs and restaurateurs alike.
The highly anticipated comeback of Decorex Cape Town is expected to be an unforgettable experience, presenting the latest trends, sustainable design practices and culinary advancements. With a diverse line-up of exhibitors, engaging talks and workshops, and a strong focus on sustainability and the future of design, this expo offers a valuable platform for esteemed professionals. Whether you’re a homeowner, interior designer, architect or décor enthusiast, this showcase of creativity and innovation is sure to inspire, educate and provide valuable insights into the world of design.