What Not to Miss at Decorex Joburg 2026: A Floor-by-Floor Journey Through South Africa’s Biggest Design Celebration

From inspiring interiors and cutting-edge kitchens to collectible design, emerging talent, immersive installations and unforgettable culinary experiences, Decorex Joburg 2026 returns to transform the Sandton Convention Centre into an immersive celebration of contemporary living. Taking place from 30 July to 2 August 2026, this year’s show embraces The Soft Life, inviting visitors to explore how thoughtful design can enrich everyday life through comfort, craftsmanship, wellbeing and connection.

Rather than a traditional exhibition, Decorex unfolds across five carefully curated levels, each offering its own distinctive perspective on design, architecture, property, food and innovation. Whether you’re renovating your home, searching for the latest décor inspiration, discovering African creativity or simply enjoying a day immersed in beautiful spaces, every floor delivers something unique.

Level -2: Property, Renovation and Smarter Living

The journey begins where many homes do—with the foundations. Level -2 focuses on property, renovation and home improvement, welcoming The Property Show by Private Property, in partnership with Nedbank, to Decorex for the first time. Visitors can explore expert advice on buying, selling and renovating, while the Private Property Studiohosts engaging conversations around interiors, renovation and lifestyle.

Practical inspiration continues at the DIY Studio presented by Discovery Bank Home Loans, where demonstrations and expert guidance empower homeowners to confidently tackle projects themselves.

One of the standout installations on this level is The Recharge Garage, proudly presented by Lexus and designed by Tshepo Sealetsa. Rather than viewing the garage purely as a functional space, the installation reimagines it as a beautifully integrated extension of modern living. Before moving upstairs, visitors can also enjoy the ever-popular Street Food Market, offering an energetic culinary experience to begin the day.

Level 0: Kitchens, Bathrooms and Everyday Rituals

Dedicated to two of the home’s hardest-working spaces, Level 0 celebrates thoughtful living through exceptional kitchen and bathroom design.

At its heart is The Sacred Pause, created by Lifestyle Ceramics in collaboration with Kohler and Cocoon Lifestyle. Designed as a contemporary sanctuary, the installation explores water, architecture, light and natural materials, creating a peaceful retreat inspired by craftsmanship and ritual.

Nearby, The Kitchen Project, presented by Cosentino, showcases bespoke kitchens created by Eljen Kitchens alongside premium Cosentino surfaces, Franke fittings and Hisense appliances. Organic layouts and tactile finishes beautifully interpret this year’s Soft Life theme.

Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. The @home Cooking Studio, built by Sprung Outdoor Living, presents live cooking demonstrations featuring leading culinary personalities, while the Eiger Experience with Oakmont Kitchens combines luxury kitchen design with interactive food experiences.

Visitors can pause for authentic Japanese cuisine at Kanpai Restaurant or enjoy refreshments from Woolworths Grab & Go, making this floor as delicious as it is inspiring.

Level 2: The Home of Contemporary African Design

A visit to Decorex wouldn’t be complete without exploring 100% Design Africa, occupying the entirety of Level 2 and showcasing the remarkable creativity shaping contemporary African design.

The exhibition brings together established studios, international collaborations and emerging talent through a series of curated experiences. 100% Local celebrates South African furniture, objects and material innovation, while 100% Iconic honours Decorex Africa’s Designer of the Year, LRNCE, through an immersive presentation of handcrafted artworks and textiles.

Visitors can discover the latest trends through Ten x Ten, featuring 100 exceptional design objects across ten categories, while FloodLight explores how lighting transforms the atmosphere of interior spaces through innovative installations.

The future of design is equally celebrated at 100% Fresh, where students from Tshwane University of Technology and Greenside Design Centre respond creatively to this year’s theme, alongside Greenside’s new Plotville initiative.

Beyond the exhibitions, Level 2 comes alive through hospitality and conversation. The Good Table celebrates gathering through food and design, while The Social Library blends cocktails, music, objects and material culture into an immersive cultural destination.

Collectors will appreciate The Collector’s Room by Russell Kaplan Auctioneers, showcasing rare furniture, art and design classics before culminating in a live online auction. Throughout the show, Future Talks offers a CPD-accredited programme featuring architects, designers, curators and international thought leaders discussing the future of design.

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Levels 4 and 5: Independent Design Meets South Africa’s Leading Brands

Shopping becomes an experience in itself at the Capitec Design MRKT, stretching across Levels 4 and 5. Visitors can browse ceramics, art, homeware, gifts, accessories and handcrafted pieces created by some of Africa’s most exciting independent designer-makers, while curated DJ sets and Paul’s Homemade Ice Cream create a vibrant festival atmosphere.

On Level 5, South Africa’s leading décor and furniture brands come together under one roof, presenting complete interior environments filled with inspiration.

This year’s focus on wellbeing extends into beautifully curated bedroom spaces from Granny Goose and Volpes, while The Bedroom Project explores how thoughtful design can improve rest and sleep.

Moments of Attention by Woolworths demonstrates how texture, scent and carefully chosen objects shape the emotional experience of home, while the Soft Life Design Pods invite five design studios to interpret comfort and intentional living through immersive interiors.

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The ever-popular Kramerville District recreates Johannesburg’s renowned design precinct inside the exhibition, bringing together leading furniture and interior brands in a gallery-inspired retail environment. Visitors can conclude their journey with a glass of wine at the Bodega Pop-up Wine Bar, the perfect place to reflect on a day filled with inspiration.

More Than an Exhibition

True to this year’s Soft Life philosophy, Decorex Joburg integrates hospitality throughout the entire exhibition rather than confining it to a single food court. From Japanese dining and long-table meals to cocktails, wine bars and vibrant street food, every level offers opportunities to slow down, reconnect and enjoy the experience.

VIP guests can also relax inside the exclusive Soft Life VIP Lounge, designed as an elegant space for meetings, conversation and quiet moments between exploring the exhibition.

Experience the Future of Design

Decorex Joburg 2026 offers far more than an exhibition—it presents a complete journey through contemporary living. Whether visitors are searching for practical renovation advice, discovering the next generation of African designers, sourcing exceptional furniture or simply immersing themselves in beautiful spaces, every floor reveals a new perspective on how design shapes the way we live.

With inspiration around every corner, engaging talks, unforgettable installations and experiences that celebrate creativity in all its forms, Decorex Joburg once again promises to be South Africa’s most exciting design destination.