WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

When ceramics transcend mere functionality, they become compelling objects of contemplation and conversation. Grounded Practice, an exhibition by House Union Block (HUB) in collaboration with Spier Arts Trust (SAT) and Spier Wine Farm, embraces this notion – exploring themes of stability, sustainability, and self-reflection through the grounding medium of clay.

Now, for the first time, a capsule collection curated for 100% Design Africa and which includes pieces from Grounded Practice, will be on display at Decorex Joburg from 24 to 27 July, giving fairgoers a chance to view and acquire pieces, too.

The initial format of Grounded Practice brought together 63 ceramic artworks by 42 exceptional artists. “Ceramics often fly under the radar in the fine art world,” says curator Tamlin Blake, Chief Curator at SAT. “This show proves just how innovative and relevant they can be.” For the 100% Design Africa display booth, SAT has chosen 23 artworks by 18 artists.

The chosen pieces reflect each artist’s emotional and creative responses to a rapidly shifting world, while also celebrating the meditative and healing qualities of the medium. “Clay is an ancient and deeply symbolic material,” says Blake. “It connects us physically to the land and offers a powerful space for reflection and regeneration.”

“Our goal with the annual Spier winter ceramics show is to provide a platform to increase visibility for artists and this art form, which traditionally is considered a craft, rather than fine art,” says Mirna Wessels, CEO of SAT. “We will extend the impact through participation in 100% Design Africa 2025 and hope to not only give the artists exposure, but also to achieve sales on their behalf.”

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WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

Curated by Decorex Africa’s Creative Directors Garreth van Niekerk and Alan Hayward, the Capitec handmadeAFRICA Pavilion brings an extraordinary showcase of contemporary designers from across the continent to this year’s Decorex Joburg. Spotlighting craftsmanship, cultural intelligence, and collectable design, the Pavilion will present handmade modern African luxury to visitors.

“This Pavilion is a statement of African excellence,” says Garreth van Niekerk. “It speaks to a continent not stuck in its past, but actively reshaping the future of global design, one handmade piece at a time. Cape Town was a huge success – affirmation that our curatorial instinct is sound. The bold pink Chela Broom wall by Bambizulu became one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ moments of the show. But more importantly, we introduced exceptional designers to new markets, giving their work the visibility it deserves.”

What to See

BambiZulu

BambiZulu debuts the Chela Broom – a radiant design object inspired by traditional Zulu brooms. Collaborating with handmadeAFRICA, BambiZulu reimagines this domestic icon using sustainably sourced ilala palm, vibrant grasses hand-harvested in Nongoma, and bold basket-weave handles developed with the women weavers of Hlabisa.

Monkeybiz

Monkeybiz, the trailblazing bead collective, showcases iconic artworks created by over 300 women bead artists from under-resourced communities.

LRNCE

LRNCE presents its painterly ceramics from Marrakech. Each plate is hand-painted by founder Laurence Leenaert, blending abstraction and symbolism.

Roxas

Roxas presents ceramic vessels and sculptures inscribed with text – poetic, humorous, and quietly philosophical. Created in Morocco, these pieces blur the line between function and art.

Luminaire d’Afrique

Luminaire d’Afrique launches its first collection of high-end lighting – collaborative works involving Ngwenya Glass, Bambizulu, master weaver Beauty Ngxongo, and Johannesburg’s finest lighting manufacturers.

Leatile Mosime Furniture

Leatile Mosime Furniture offers sculptural pieces made from indigenous wood, embracing traditional Tswana joinery. A Botswana-born architect turned designer, Mosime celebrates the imperfections of timber with an honesty and reverence that speaks to deep place-based practice.

Kind Kid

Kind Kid, created by Sanele Kwabe, shows monumental 3D-printed sculptures – scaled-up versions of playful toy-like characters, now chrome-plated in South Africa.

Bombisa

Bombisa, founded by Lazi Mathebula, launches the Isivunguvungu series – intricate paper sculptures exploring the tension between chaos and calm.

The Ninevites

The Ninevites is a design studio and collaborative platform founded by Nkuli Mlangeni-Berg. Gathering threads from across the continent and weaving them all into one beautiful story, The Nineevites make beautiful rugs, cushions, blankets and kitchenware using inventive designs with made-to-be-touched textures.

Moya African Glass Network

Moya African Glass Network is a non-profit company that strives to build a thriving Pan-African glass art community by connecting artists, collectors and enthusiasts while promoting education, sustainability and resource sharing. The featured artists include Mike Hyam, Lothar Bottcher and Martli Jansen van Rensburg.

Capitec handmadeAFRICA Design MRKT

Capitec handmadeAFRICA has teamed up with Decorex AFRICA to present the Design MRKT – an exciting expansion of its retail capsule that will spread across two floors (L4 & L5) at Decorex Johannesburg. 

Spotlight on Emerging Talent

The curators have selected three Spotlight Designers to watch out for across the Capitec HandmadeAFRICA Pavilion and the Design MRKT:

• BambiZulu, whose Chela Broom signals the beginning of a series of provocative, culturally resonant design objects from their collaboration with handmadeAFRICA.
• Bombisa, bringing poetic power to paper with their origami-inspired creations.
• Aaliyah Makoni, purveyor of bold, colourful wares for women and their homes. Known for their proprietary hand-designed prints, Makoni’s accessories and décor pieces speak directly to self-expression, individuality, and joyful living.

Dates and times

24 – 27 July 2025 | Sandton Convention Centre | Open daily 10am–6pm | decorex.co.za

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Decorex Joburg will present all the latest trends, curated displays, local designs and new product releases. A much-anticipated highlight of the decor and design calendar, this massive showcase taking place from 24 to 27 July 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Here are our must-see highlights to help you plan your visit.

Stands to Visit

With numerous exhibitors to explore, these standout brands are leading the way in creativity, craftsmanship and innovation. From surface finishes and flooring to bedding and homeware, make sure these top-tier displays are on your must-visit list.

OGGIE | Level 2 | Stand B73

With over two decades of experience shaping interiors – many of which have graced the pages of VISI – Oggie has established itself as Africa’s largest importer of European Oak, and a name synonymous with sophisticated, sustainable living.

At this year’s Decorex Joburg, the brand will welcome design enthusiasts to its beautifully curated 80m² installation. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in Oggie’s latest engineered hardwood collections, including exclusive patterns and contemporary surface treatments designed to inspire architects, interior designers and aesthetes alike. The brand will have show specials on offer at their stand, too – don’t miss out. | oggie.co.za

STILES | Level 0 | Stand KB107

Known for curating tile ranges that inspire, Stiles returns to Decorex Joburg with a curated edit of decorative tiles that bridge design with lasting function. Visitors can expect to see the latest tile trends on display – including relief textures, graphic forms, and the standout “Funky Tile” collection.

Whether you’re planning a bathroom or kitchen renovation, Stiles’ on-stand tile specialists will be on hand to offer insights into the technical aspects of each range. Also on show: the brand’s sustainable slabs and timeless floor tiles, which have been carefully curated to bring beauty and longevity to any space. | stiles.co.za

@home | Level 5 | Stand P40

Meticulously crafted from the highest quality materials that are exceptionally breathable and luxurious, Granny Goose is the lightest, airiest bedding you will ever experience. If you’re looking to change the way you sleep and transform your nighttime routine, visit the @home Granny Goose sleep stand at Decorex Joburg. Speak to one of the sleep experts on hand to discover which duvet is best for each season are how to choose the perfect pillow, and more. | bash.com/granny-goose

Hubs to Explore

Whether you’re hunting for artisanal treasures, looking to hear from industry pioneers, or scouting what’s next in South African design, these are the places to pause and dive deep.

Capitec handmadeAFRICA + Design MRKT

This pop-up will be showcasing more than 40 brands in a special retail capsule at the iconic design showcase. Plus, the all-new Design MRKT – a fully-fledged artisanal market celebrating Pan-African design – will give visitors the opportunity to take their favourite pieces of design from the continent home with them.

Future Talks

This unmissable programme of 14 CPD-accredited sessions brings together the boldest minds in design under the theme ‘Design Makes the Future’. The talks include the likes of Stephen Klein, the CEO of Klein Concepts, a dynamic interior architecture practice; Sinegugu Ngxongo, the founder of Bambizulu, which produces high-quality eco-friendly woven products; and many more. You’ll find the talks stage as part of 100% Design Africa.

100% Design Africa

100% Design Africa returns to Joburg with three amazing design pavilions – Local, International, Materials – and more.

• Local: features a curated exhibition spotlighting the country’s most compelling design voices.
• International: brings a selection of world-renowned design brands to Sandton.
• Materials: will explore the continent’s most exciting materials.

Included in the 100% Design Africa showcase is a capsule collection of bold ceramic art from the ‘Grounded Practice’ exhibition.

The Create Café

The Create Café, an interactive ceramics studio, will be offering hands-on workshops led by Kendall Simon from Create Lonehill.

Where to Eat

From bubbles to locally roasted coffee and beautifully plated bites, Decorex Joburg’s food and drink offerings are as considered as the design displays themselves.

Kanpai Restaurant | Level 0

Designed by Cocoon Lifestyle, the Kanpai Restaurant will be serving up Japanese-inspired bites in a refined, design-forward setting.

100% Bar and 100% Restaurant | Level 2

Sip inventive cocktails at the 100% Bar by Rialheim, or enjoy a curated menu of bold, modern flavours at the 100% Restaurant by Shalom Interiors.

Line Avenue Bar | Level 5

Lounge in luxury at the Line Avenue Bar by Shalom Interiors – where poke bowls, spring rolls, and champagne-style sparkle meet velvet textures and golden details.

DATES & TIMES 

24 – 27 July 2025 | Sandton Convention Centre | Open daily 10am–6pm | decorex.co.za

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Wolkberg Casting Studio collaborates with Food, I Love You, blurring the lines between Design and Food at Decorex Joburg 2024.

The multi-award-winning studio, a participant at 100% Design Africa and Decorex since 2017, has unveiled an innovative collaboration with Food, I Love You, a dynamic South African culinary brand.

Wolkberg Casting Studio, a proudly South African industrial design studio, was co-founded by creative entrepreneur Ramielle de Jager – a regular Future Talks contributor – who has established a name for herself as a leading product innovator in the industry.

Ramielle envisioned the 100% Design Café as an experiential space where the worlds of Design and Food seamlessly intersect. Inspired by the idea that the environment can enhance culinary experiences, the studio has created an elegant, functional space that embodies its design philosophy. Featuring bespoke surfaces and unique materials that provide a visually stimulating yet inviting atmosphere, the café’s aesthetic is a testament to Wolkberg’s craftsmanship. The thoughtfully designed space encourages interaction, conversation, and a shared appreciation of Design through Food.

The design of the 100% Design Café, located at the centre of the 100% Design Hall on Level 2 of the Sandton Convention Centre, perfectly complements the culinary and interactive experiences curated by Food, I Love You. Mpho, the visionary behind the brand, brings her “Eat Simple | Eat Together” concept to this unique pop-up space. Her Harvest Table-style approach to food aligns with Ramielle and Wolkberg’s commitment to fostering connections through design.

Central to this collaboration between Wolkberg and Food, I Love You is the celebration of female entrepreneurship. By partnering with Mpho and other female leaders in the culinary world, Wolkberg underscores the importance of representation and diversity in both the design and food industries. In the lead-up to Decorex, Wolkberg’s podcast “In the Thick of Design” will delve into the relationship between design and consumer behaviour in hospitality environments.

Join Wolkberg and Food, I Love You at the 100% Design Café to experience this intersection of Design and Food. | wolkberg.com

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Decorex Joburg is back with a multifaceted four-day event aimed at highlighting new design concepts and advancements in home decor. 

Decorex Joburg will present all the latest trends, curated displays, local designs and new product releases. A much-anticipated highlight of the decor and design calendar, this massive showcase taking place from 1 to 4 August 2024, will run alongside 100% Design Africa.

Spanning four levels of the Sandton Convention Centre, here are our must-see highlights to help you plan your visit:

Refined Kitchen Luxury

nuuma, a South African-born brand redefining the luxury kitchen market, will showcase inspiring modern kitchen designs that take understated style a step further. Think luxury materials, clean lines, and innovative bespoke kitchen solutions.

Rooted in simplicity, nuuma champions the principles of interior minimalism. They prioritise innovative solutions that enhance the cooking experience and focus on the seamless integration of form and function with every high-end design.

Located on Level 0 in the Kitchen and Bathroom Hall, nuuma’s stand C09 will embody the brand’s ethos, offering visitors a unique, curated kitchen design experience highlighting the latest trends and innovations in culinary design. | nuuma.co.za

100% Design Café

Wolkberg Casting Studios, a multi-award-winning participant at 100% Design and Decorex since 2017, is collaborating with Food, I Love You, a like-minded entrepreneurial brand in South Africa whose “Eat simple | Eat Together” concept resonates deeply with Wolkberg.

This collaboration on the 100% Design Café is a match made in design and food heaven! For the design of the experiential space, Wolkberg wanted to further explore the intersection between Design and Food. Wolkberg has crafted an elegant restaurant setting, providing the perfect backdrop for Food I Love You’s Harvest Table-style cuisine.

In the lead-up to the four-day event, Wolkberg will also be exploring insightful conversations around how interior design influences consumer behaviour in hospitality environments through their Podcast “In the Thick of Design”. Their goal is to raise awareness and show appreciation for the value good design brings to the restaurant experience. 

Join them at the 100% Design Café located on Level 2 in the 100% Design Hall and celebrate the harmony of design and food. | wolkberg.com

Step Outside

Go alfresco with CREMA and step onto an Italian terrace designed by JVR Architects. CREMA will be breaking down the boundaries between inside and out, venturing into the open air with a refreshing new, all-encompassing, contextual take on outdoor design, adding new collections from archival and contemporary designers, as well as introducing outdoor versions of the existing indoor portfolio. 

CREMA will be showcasing some of the best international furniture and lighting at stand F04 on Level 2 in the 100% Design Hall. | crema.co.za

The Sleep Experience

Overhaul your sleep experience with customisable comfort, colour and quality at the Sloom stand D12 located on Level 5 in the Decor, Lighting and Design Hall. Founded in 2016, the South African mattress brand offers a unique mattress-in-a-box delivery concept. Once opened, the Sloom Mattress expands for a good night’s sleep.

“In 2015, I toyed with the idea of incorporating different comfort layers into a single mattress. It began as a dual-comfort mattress with two different comfort levels on each side. Later this evolved into a customisable mattress with four different comfort levels. Each layer contributes to the mattress as a whole, bringing the concept of a mattress in a box to life,” says founder Rudo Kemp.

Sloom has since expanded its product range to include the Sloom Height-Adjustable Pillow and introduced various colour options for its headboards and bedframes, as well as 100% BCI Cotton Bedding. 2024 sees Sloom elevate the Bedroom space once again with its brand-new Oak Edge Bedframe. The new range will be available – for the first time – at Decorex Joburg. | sloom.co.za

Discover Stylish Tiles

Seeking inspiration for your new bathroom or kitchen? Whether planning a major renovation or a subtle update, Stiles has the perfect tile solutions to bring your interior projects to life.

Make your way to stand H04 on Level 2 in the Renovate & Build Hall. Here, expert tile design consultants await, ready to guide you through a world of possibilities and help you craft the perfect tile story for your unique space. Discover the latest trends and innovations in tile design, plus Stiles’ stunning new collections, including funky subways, rounded tiles, beautiful large format marble and stone-look slabs. | stiles.co.za

Future Talks

The Future Talks series at this year’s Decorex Joburg encompasses a multifaceted exploration of topics ranging from sustainability and circularity to design entrepreneurship and the transformative impact of technology on the creative landscape.

VISI editor Steve Smith will be hosting two talks:

• 1 August at 12:00: “The Business of Sustainability” – a panel discussion with Cameron Barnes, Bianca Shapiro, MD of Wunders, and Maggie Infante, CEO of Infinite Industries. The talk tackles how to integrate sustainability into standard business processes.
• 3 August at 12:00: “Influencing the Influencers” – a panel discussion with Heath Nash, Head of sustainable design at Circular Squared, Nindya Bucktowar and Nikhil Tricam of Kalki Ceramics, designer and artist Walter Train and artist Zinhle Sithebe. The talk will take a look at what is inspiring the new stars of South African design.

You’ll find the Future Talks stage in Level 2 in 100% Design Africa Hall.

Decorex Joburg

Experience this active shift towards impact design for yourself and join the designers and creatives paving the way to the future at Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre). | decorex.co.za

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The women of South Africa’s design industry stand as beacons of creativity and vision, constantly redefining the landscape with their innovative ideas.

This Women’s Month, Decorex Joburg and 100% Design Africa celebrate the incredible contributions of women in design. “Our country’s rich cultural diversity should be reflected in its design industry, and championing women ensures this is accurately and fully represented,” comments Bielle Bellingham, Decorex Africa Executive Creative Director. “Often, women design with a focus on community and social impact, leading to projects that benefit society as a whole. By supporting their work, we foster a more inclusive and forward-thinking industry.”

The participants in these two shows, including engineers, architects, interior decorators, ceramicists, furniture designers, and textile artists, showcase remarkable expertise across diverse fields, emphasising the need to recognise their exceptional contributions.

Lexus ‘Making Luxury Personal’ Spaces

For the Lexus ‘Making Luxury Personal’ spaces, respected South African designers Anna Correia, Kgomotso Malope of MoTSO DeSIGNED and Sihan Wiid of Mink Interiors will create feature spaces informed by the latest Lexus car models, demonstrating how to capture the personality of luxury cars in interior design.

Plascon Colour Design Pods

Living Inspired Interiors, founded by Tanya Solomon, will create a room set inspired by Plascon palettes. The Plascon Colour Design Pods aim to push designers to explore and showcase the diverse and dynamic possibilities of colour using the Plascon Colour Forecast for 2024.

100% Design Africa

This year’s edition of 100% Design Africa will host an unparalleled display of product design, furniture, decor, lighting and art. Kalki Ceramics, co-founded by multi-disciplinary artist Nindya Bucktowar and her partner Nikhil Tricam, will be at the showcase. Kalki was the winner of the annual Nando’s Hot Young Designer Talent Search in 2022. 

Former Design Indaba Emerging Creatives and sisters Viveka and Rucita Vassen of Ananta Design Studio will also be showcasing their unique beaded lighting and decor pieces.

Local surface brand Infinity Surfaces will be displaying an exciting collaboration with four visionary local designers, including Mpho Vackier of multi-disciplinary furniture and product design company TheUrbanative, and Tanisha Neill of Cape Town-based furniture design studio N I S H. 

Design brand Coote and Wench, founded by Storm Coote and her husband Philip, will be returning to 100% Design Africa with its unique range of upcycled lighting, handmade furniture and home accessories.

Ashlee Lloyd of the internationally acclaimed lighting design studio Studio Lloyd will stage a designer room set at 100% Design Africa. The studio’s impressive catalogue of functional art pieces has been featured in British Vogue, VISI and Dezeen, among others.

100% Hospitality by Belgotex

Named earlier in 2024 as the ‘Women Shaping the Future of Sustainable Hotel Design’ by Condé Nast Traveller, Megan Hesse and Andrea Kleinloog of HesseKleinloog Studio and Anatomy Design will demonstrate their industry brilliance at 100% Hospitality by Belgotex, an exclusive exhibition showcasing the future of luxury hospitality design.

100% Design Africa Café

The 100% Design Africa Café, located in the centre of the 100% Design Africa hall on Level 2 of the convention centre, is designed by Wolkberg Casting Studio. Wolkberg, a proudly African industrial design studio, was co-founded by creative entrepreneur Ramielle de Jager – a regular Future Talks contributor – who has established a name for herself as a leading product innovator in the industry. 

Future Talks

Future Talks’ dynamic hosts for 2024 include creative multi-hyphenate and the co-founder of interior design studio MOEA Design, Cassandra Twala, creative director Jana Hamman, Andrea Kleinloog and spatial design educator and interior architect Audrey Nanjala. 

Decorex Joburg

Experience this active shift towards impact design for yourself and join the designers and creatives paving the way to the future at Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre). | decorex.co.za

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Inspiration and innovation will converge, with the Future Talks series igniting critical discussions and inspiring groundbreaking solutions at Decorex Joburg, which will take place from 1 to 4 August 2024, at the Sandton Convention Centre.

The Future Talks series at this year’s Decorex Cape Town and Decorex Joburg encompass a multifaceted exploration of topics, ranging from sustainability and circularity to design entrepreneurship and the transformative impact of technology on the creative landscape.

The Future Talks stage will feature a diverse array of industry experts tackling the most critical topics in the design world. This exciting line-up promises to inspire and provoke thought.

The Line-up

Tristan du Plessis – The renowned international interior designer’s presentation will set the stage for an exceptional four-day event, promising to be an inspiring and influential gathering for all attendees.

Steve Smith – VISI’s editor-in-chief, will lead an exciting panel discussion on ‘The Business of Sustainability’ – tackling how to integrate sustainability into standard business processes and exploring what inspires the new generation of designers.

Georgina Smit – The green building specialist and Senior Manager at the Green Building Council South Africa, will be discussing green building solutions and highlighting various strategies and innovative solutions that can be deployed to achieve net zero carbon. She’ll explore how designers can avoid greenwashing by sharing globally agreed frameworks on circular design and principles.

Audrey Nanjala – The interior architect and educator will be discussing how interior design can advance spatial justice and inclusivity in South Africa. Her talk will highlight how thoughtful design practices can create equitable and inclusive spaces. Attendees will discover key principles, insightful case studies, and the transformative power of interior design in fostering environments that support diverse community needs.

Thapelo Ramahlo and Tshegofatso Choenyane of MaXhosa Africa Lifestyle – They will share experiences, challenges, and high points with MaXhosa Africa, along with the vision for the brand’s future, including sustainability efforts.

Andrea Kleinloog – One half of the HesseKleinloog and Anatomy Design team alongside Megan Hesse, Andrea will offer an honest insight into working in Africa as both a designer and a woman. In her talk titled ‘Women in Design: Working in Africa,’ she will discuss the realities of the design trade and environment. This session is specifically targeted at students in the industry, providing them with a candid understanding of the trade and the environment they will encounter upon graduation.

Pumla Maswanganyi – The founding principal of MM + Co, a design agency dedicated to democratising access to art and design to promote development mandates, will headline a presentation titled ‘African Life-Centric Design: Principles for Moving from Extraction to Regeneration’. This talk will explore the construction of a next-frontier approach to design and creation, focusing on shaping the continent’s future. 

Esther Martins – The Dean of the Built Environment Faculty at Inscape Education Group, will emphasise sustainability, cultural integration and technological advancements in shaping our built environment in a talk titled ‘Designer Futures: Reflecting on the Past, Understanding the Present, and Imagining the Future from a South African Perspective’.

Other speakers set to take the stage include Jana Hamman and Koos Groenewald of the in-demand creative branding and design agency Jana + Koos, who also designed the mind-bending 2024 Future Talks visual identity. Joining them are multidisciplinary sustainable designer Matthew Edwards, architect Nerina Naude, Andrew Berry, Director of brand consultancy The Bread, artist and curator Siwa Mgoboza, circular designer Pim Dekkers, and more.

The Future Talks 2024 are free to attend with general admission tickets to the show, which are valid for one day. Pre-registration is required as the talks will have limited space, so be sure to plan your visit via the dedicated Decorex app, which will have all the information you need as well as live updates.

VISI is the proud media sponsor of The Future Talks.

Decorex Joburg

Experience this active shift towards impact design for yourself and join the designers and creatives paving the way to the future at Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre). | decorex.co.za

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Where brands are launched, trends are set and the future of design is shaped: 100% Design Africa 2024 is the peak of innovation and inspiration, igniting passion and pushing boundaries in the world of design.

100% Design Africa, well known as a launch pad for exciting new products and rising local brands, will run alongside Decorex Joburg 2024. This year’s edition of 100% Design Africa will host an unparalleled display of product design, furniture, decor, lighting and art. 

Here’s a glimpse of what to expect from this year’s showcase. 

The Designer of the Year 

Award-winning interior designer Tristan du Plessis will be showcasing his inimitable talent. Named as the Designer of the Year for Decorex Africa and 100% Design Africa, Tristan is one of the foremost interior designers in the world, having worked on the 2023 Restaurant and Bar Awards Best Club/Night Venue, Giselle Miami, and local restaurant FYN – which was recently named the 60th best restaurant in the world. At this year’s event, you can expect to see a concept decor scheme showcasing his signature maximalist yet refined luxury. 

Circular design in the spotlight

Through the lens of circular design, the Regenerate exhibition aims to empower us all to co-create a better future. Curated by Anja Joubert and Decorex Africa’s Executive Creative Director Bielle Bellingham, the innovative materials and objects on display highlight improved systems and technologies that benefit both people and the planet. The exhibition stand, designed for disassembly by Cameron Barnes, showcases the versatility and sustainability of modern design.

2024 Infinity Surfaces furniture collab

Infinity Surfaces has partnered with four visionary local designers – Tanisha Neill, Mpho Vackier, Tshepo Sealetsa and Walter Train, in a collaborative exhibition of elevated South African furniture design. 

Designer eats 

Showgoers can grab a bite to eat at the centrally-located 100% Design Restaurant by Wolkberg Casting Studio, which is headed by founder Ramielle de Jager. Wolkberg manufactures beautiful handmade Limesite tiles, an engineered high-performance concrete material that gains strength with time.

Designer rooms 

Cape Town-based design studio Studio Lloyd, furniture brand KINO, interior design studio Wythous Interiors, and Créma Design will showcase the latest interior design and decor trends in a set of Designer Rooms. 

New launches

Show-stopping furniture is on the cards, with brands such as David Krynauw, MØDERNIST, Karongwe Furniture, and more set to showcase their wares. Joe Paine, a Johannesburg-based product and furniture design label, will unveil its new outdoor range called Ridge Forrester.

100% Hospitality by Belgotex

Leading floor manufacturer Belgotex is partnering with interior design studio HesseKleinloog – the brainchild of design mavens Megan Hesse and Andrea Kleinloog and the sister brand of Anatomy Design – 100% Hospitality by Belgotex. Known for its expertise in luxury hospitality, having worked on Kruger Shalati Bridge House and Singita’s Kwitonda Lodge in Rwanda, HesseKleinloog is bringing the future of hospitality to life in this exclusive exhibition.

Shaping tomorrow through design

Following the Future Talks at Decorex Cape Town in June 2024, a fresh lineup of speakers will ignite conversation in Joburg at the dedicated Future Talks stage in the Future of Design exhibition area. Attendees will have access to a range of free talks – some of which will be CPD accredited – as well as collaborative workshops and exhibitions that tackle the future of creativity and innovation.

Decorex Joburg

Experience this active shift towards impact design for yourself and join the designers and creatives paving the way to the future at Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre). | decorex.co.za

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The Future Talks returns to Decorex 2024 with multi-disciplinary visionary Bathandwa Ngwendu as MC for a cohort of inspiring speakers.

The Future Talks series at this year’s Decorex Cape Town and Decorex Joburg encompass a multifaceted exploration of topics, ranging from sustainability and circularity to design entrepreneurship and the transformative impact of technology on the creative landscape.

Bathandwa Ngwendu, a visionary and storyteller with deep roots in the South African creative landscape, returns to MC the series. As the host of the Maak ‘n Plan podcast, Bathandwa has captivated audiences with content that resonates deeply, incubates ideas and provides insightful commentary on arts and culture in South Africa.

At the heart of The Future Talks lies a commitment to transdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable design practices. Bathandwa champions the imperative for designers to engage with diverse perspectives, underscoring the transformative potential of such collaborations in addressing pressing global challenges.

READ MORE: NEXT24: Showcasing South Africa’s Craft and Design Talent

Each session is meticulously curated to ignite critical discussions and inspire groundbreaking solutions to industry challenges.

Noteworthy speakers at The Future Talks stage at Decorex Cape Town 2024 include:

• Megan Hesse – renowned for her contributions to interior design trends and modern aesthetics.
• Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis – spearheading initiatives to foster collaboration and address urban challenges.
• Driaan Claasen – an authority on the intersection of technology and design.
• Frans Dekker – offering valuable insights into navigating the complexities of building plan approval processes.
• Anja Joubert – unveiling groundbreaking research on future materials shaping design landscapes.
• Crystal Birch – sharing indispensable wisdom on launching and managing successful design ventures.
• Leanne Porter – advocating for inclusive design principles that prioritise community well-being.
• VISI’s editor-in-chief, Steve Smith – delving into the intricacies of circular design and sustainable practices.

The Future Talks 2024 are free to attend with general admission tickets to the show, which are valid for one day. Pre-registration is required as the talks will have limited space, so be sure to plan your visit via the dedicated Decorex app, which will have all the information you need as well as live updates.

VISI is the proud media sponsor of The Future Talks.

Decorex Cape Town and Joburg

Experience this active shift towards impact design for yourself and join the designers and creatives paving the way to the future at Decorex Cape Town (6 to 9 June 2024 at the CTICC) and Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre). | decorex.co.za

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As the continent’s leading decor and design showcase, Decorex Africa is marking its commitment to thinking outside of the box. This year’s theme, Designing for Impact, aims to highlight design as a powerful tool for change through the lens of sustainability.

Decorex Cape Town (6 to 9 June 2024 at the CTICC) and Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre), will kickstart a weekend of presentations, showcasing everything new in South African design.

Anchored by this year’s theme, Designing for Impact, both shows will focus on the societal and planetary impact of design, with a spotlight firmly on exhibitors to making sustainable choices and encouraging waste reduction.

“We all need to step out of our comfort zones, and embrace innovative approaches that recognise the power of our collective impact,” says Bielle Bellingham, Executive Creative Director of Decorex Africa. ”This year’s theme acknowledges that design is an attitude of resourcefulness and resilience, and should reflect a holistic, and robust approach to problem-solving for our country and robust approach to problem-solving for our country and continent”.

We’ve highlighted a few South African creatives and collectives who, like Decorex Africa, are stepping in and making changes.

Circular Squared

Many of the goals of accelerating the circular economy in Africa through design are discernible in Circular Squared – a Cape Town-based non-profit that champions circular economic thinking and urges aspiring entrepreneurs in manufacturing and retail to adopt regenerative practices. 

The Head of Sustainable Design at Circular Squared, veteran artist and designer Heath Nash, is dedicated to turning one man’s trash into another’s treasure. He is working with local furniture brand Wunders to find solutions to the heaps of scraps produced on a day-to-day basis as a result of manufacturing.

Family-owned Wunders previously partnered with Decorex Africa’s Future Talks series in 2023, where it supplied brightly coloured seating made using its own factory’s waste materials. 

Pedersen + Lennard

Local furniture brand Pedersen + Lennard – which unveiled its Umpire range at 100% Design Joburg 2023 – is working towards reducing the environmental impact of plastic waste.

In 2023, the studio pioneered furniture that incorporates a recycled board made from plastics that are considered ‘unrecyclable’(such as toothpaste tubes and cling film). It has released a new range of public seating for the V&A Waterfront made from this recycled material. Co-founder Luke Pedersen participated in the 2023 edition of Future Talks where he touched upon the importance of building community in design and business to facilitate broader conversations of impact. 

Urban-Think Tank Empower (UTTE)

Focusing on spatial development for society is Urban-Think Tank Empower (UTTE), a non-profit organisation which emerged from Urban-Think Tank Design Group, an international collective that uses the power of architecture and design to uplift the lives of marginalised communities worldwide.

UTTE employs a unique collaborative, research-led design approach to provide decent, affordable housing for all – the fruit of which is a modular housing unit which allows the owner to adapt the layout to suit their specific needs. 

MAAK

Another company paving the way in social impact architecture is The MAAK, an award-winning architectural practice based in Cape Town that focuses on public buildings and spaces that yield a positive outcome for communities.

”The less we engage in the social issues of our time, the more we breed a public apathy towards architecture and in turn dilute the urgency of our craft,” it says. The MAAK’s New Rest Valley Crèche is an early childhood development (ECD) centre for The Vuya Foundation, and the first completed formal public infrastructure in the New Rest Valley near Riebeek-Kasteel. 

The Ramp

Based in Cape Town, The Ramp is a multidisciplinary project space that challenges conventional means of institutional access to the arts by bringing creative practitioners together.

The Ramp connects creatives with the goal of sharing collective knowledge and resources – and invites the public to get involved – to produce more impactful work.

Decorex Cape Town and Joburg

Experience this active shift towards impact design for yourself and join the designers and creatives paving the way to the future at Decorex Cape Town (6 to 9 June 2024 at the CTICC) and Decorex Joburg (1 to 4 August 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre). | decorex.co.za

Looking for more design inspiration? Sign up to our weekly newsletter, here.

The post Decorex 2024: Designing for Impact and a Sustainable Future appeared first on Visi.