For four days this week, the Cape Town International Convention Centre will become the epicentre of African design as Decorex Cape Town 2026 returns with a showcase of creativity, innovation and future-focused thinking. Taking place from 25 to 28 June, the event brings together hundreds of brands, leading designers, makers and industry experts for one of the continent’s most anticipated design gatherings.

People, products and ideas

More than an exhibition, Decorex Cape Town offers a curated exploration of the ideas, products and people shaping the way contemporary spaces are designed and experienced. Whether visitors are sourcing materials for a project, planning a renovation, seeking investment-worthy design pieces or simply looking for inspiration, the event provides a unique opportunity to engage with the future of African design under one roof.

Throughout the exhibition, thoughtfully conceived installations and immersive showcases encourage a slower, more considered approach to design. Visitors are invited to move beyond simply viewing products and instead experience how materials, craftsmanship and innovation intersect to shape meaningful spaces.

The journey begins with Lexus, whose exclusive VIP Lounge sets a refined tone for the exhibition. Reserved for guests of the Lexus concierge service, the space introduces a narrative of comfort and sophistication that extends throughout the event. Beyond it lies a carefully curated landscape of installations designed to reward exploration and discovery.

Exploring connections in contemporary design

Among the highlights is Ten x Ten, a compelling collection of 100 design objects sourced from across Africa and beyond. The showcase traces connections between cultures, materials and makers, offering visitors a broader perspective on contemporary design. Nearby, 100% Local celebrates South African creativity and craftsmanship, while FloodLight, created in collaboration with acclaimed lighting designer Martin Döller, demonstrates the transformative power of light and its ability to redefine the experience of a space.

Equally important are the moments created for pause and connection. The Happinest Bubbly Bar, Klay Bistro, the 100% Design Restaurant by Loredana Morton Interiors and the Rialheim Café provide welcoming spaces where visitors can reflect, engage in conversation and absorb the inspiration surrounding them.

A sense of calm continues at the Lexus Recharge Garage, designed by interior and product designer Tshepo Sealetsa. Conceived as a sanctuary rather than a traditional product display, the space uses neutral tones, gentle lighting and tactile textures to translate the seamless flow of the Lexus RZ 450e into an immersive design experience. The result is a thoughtful environment centred on stillness, balance and intention.

Influencing the everyday

Elsewhere, visitors can explore a softer interpretation of contemporary living through Moments of Attention with Woolworths, the Soft Life Kitchen by NUMU and The Soft Life Design Pods by Arcpop, Styleast, Karoo Baba and Constantia Fabrics. These carefully curated spaces demonstrate how material choices, texture and spatial planning influence everyday life, creating homes that feel both functional and deeply personal.

For those looking to deepen their knowledge, Decorex’s extensive programme offers valuable insights for both industry professionals and design enthusiasts. Future Talks, presented by Oggie, brings together leading voices from the worlds of interiors, architecture, craft and materials for four days of thought-provoking discussions focused on the future of design. Attendees also have the opportunity to earn two CPD points while engaging with these forward-thinking conversations.

The @home Cooking Studio, built by Sprung Outdoor, transforms the kitchen into a stage for creativity and connection. Renowned chefs including Zola Nene and Lerato Maleswena will demonstrate how thoughtfully designed cookware, utensils, tableware and surfaces contribute to both functionality and enjoyment in everyday living.

Practical learning takes centre stage at the Discovery Bank DIY Studio, where visitors can participate in interactive build-and-learn sessions designed to help them transform their homes. Interior designer Bridget Meier will share insights into the latest décor trends, while Angela Glover from Discovery Home Loans will explore renovation planning and financing strategies, offering valuable guidance for homeowners embarking on improvement projects.

Take the experience home

Those wishing to take a piece of the experience home will find plenty to discover at the Capitec Design Market. Bringing together independent makers, emerging studios and established brands, the market offers an opportunity to shop unique products while supporting the creative businesses driving South Africa’s design industry forward.

As Africa’s premier décor and design platform, Decorex continues to showcase the continent’s most exciting creative talent while connecting visitors with global trends, emerging innovations and future-focused ideas. The result is an experience that extends beyond products and exhibitions, becoming a celebration of how design shapes the way people live, work and connect.

Whether refreshing a home, sourcing new products or exploring new perspectives on contemporary living, visitors can expect four inspiring days of ideas, encounters and experiences that challenge expectations and celebrate the best of African design.

Decorex Cape Town ● Dates:25 – 28 June 2026 | 10am – 6pm daily ● Venue: CTICC 1, 1 Lower Long Street, Cape Town ● Tickets: Online: Adults R150 / Onsite: R160 | Pensioners/Students R120 | Kids (12- 16) R50 | Kids (under 12) Free | VIP R400 ● Book: register.decorex.co.za/cape-town

Decorex Joburg ● Dates: 30 July – 2 August 2026| 10am – 6pm daily ● Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude Street, Sandton ● Tickets: Online: Adults R160 / Onsite: R170 | Pensioners/Students R130 | Kids (12- 16) R50 | Kids (under 12) Free | VIP R450 ● Book: register.decorex.co.za/joburg Trade Visitors ● Pre-registered: Free | On-site: R170 | VIP Trade: R550 ● Register: https://www.decorex.co.za/joburg/en-gb/trade-visitor.html