Decorex Ten x Ten Exhibition 2026: 100 Objects Defining Design in 2026

In the ever-evolving world of contemporary design, certain moments emerge that capture the spirit of an era. This year, one of those moments arrives in the form of Ten x Ten exhibition 2026, a landmark new installation unveiled by Decorex Africa as part of 100% Design Africa. More than an exhibition, it is a curated snapshot of the ideas, materials and makers shaping design in 2026.

Bringing together 100 of the most compelling design objects of the year, Ten x Ten exhibition 2026 debuts at Decorex Cape Town from 25 to 28 June before travelling to Decorex Joburg from 30 July to 2 August. The ambitious showcase gathers work from across ten carefully selected categories, creating a comprehensive portrait of contemporary design from floor to ceiling.

Lighting, tiles, stools and pedestals, basketry, heritage craft, ceramics, wall coverings, textiles, glassware and furniture form the foundation of the exhibition. Yet what makes Ten x Ten remarkable is not simply the breadth of objects on display, but the way they are brought together to tell a larger story about creativity, craftsmanship and cultural exchange.

At the heart of the installation are monumental fabric sculptures inspired by the work of Tshwane-based AI artist Imagine_That, 100% Design Africa’s featured artist for 2026. These dramatic forms establish an immersive environment where distinctions between artwork, design object and spatial experience become increasingly fluid. Visitors are invited to move through a winding sequence of interconnected pavilions, discovering pieces that celebrate both innovation and tradition.

The journey spans continents. Objects sourced from South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria, Italy and other influential design destinations reveal the movement of ideas, materials and craftsmanship across borders. Together, they highlight Africa’s growing significance within the global design conversation and demonstrate how contemporary design continues to thrive through collaboration and cultural exchange.

The installation itself carries a deeper layer of meaning. Viewed from above, the layout of the pavilions forms the iconic “100%” symbol, a visual reminder that perspective matters. While close inspection reveals the intricacies of individual objects, stepping back allows visitors to appreciate the collective narrative. It is a thoughtful metaphor for design itself: the details matter, but the broader vision is what ultimately shapes our understanding.

Curated by Decorex co-creative directors Alan Hayward and Garreth van Niekerk alongside a panel of category specialists, Ten x Ten features contributions from leading names and independent makers alike. Among them are Thabisa Mjo, Kartell, Willowlamp, Wiid Design, Romo Fabrics, Glo Lighting and Robin Sprong Wallpapers, alongside a diverse selection of emerging studios and artisans. Additional expertise has been provided by respected voices including Cape Town gallery Art Formes and Sinegugu Ngxongo, founder of Bambizulu and granddaughter of master weaver Beauty Ngxongo.

What unites the collection is a shared commitment to thoughtful design. Each object has been selected not only for its aesthetic appeal, but for the ideas embedded within its creation. The exhibition celebrates work that prioritises material integrity, craftsmanship and cultural relevance over fleeting trends.

This philosophy resonates strongly with Decorex Africa’s 2026 theme, The Soft Life, which explores what it means to design for the realities of contemporary living. Ten x Ten responds with a compelling proposition: that meaningful design is found in objects that enrich everyday life through quality, purpose and enduring value.

For visitors, the installation offers more than inspiration. It presents an opportunity to consider where design stands today and where it may be heading tomorrow. It is a rare chance to encounter a carefully curated collection that reflects the ambitions, challenges and possibilities of a rapidly changing creative landscape.

As Africa’s premier décor and design platform continues to champion innovation and excellence, the Ten x Ten exhibition 2026 stands as one of the defining showcases of the year—a celebration of 100 objects worth caring about and a powerful reflection of design in 2026.

Contact Decorex Africa for more.