Meet the Judges Behind the Africotta Installation of the Year Award

The Africotta Installation of the Year Award celebrates more than beautifully executed spaces. It recognises installations that challenge convention, demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship, and tell compelling stories through design. Every shortlisted project is evaluated not only for its visual impact but also for its creativity, innovation, technical execution, and ability to inspire.

Guiding this prestigious selection process is a distinguished panel of industry experts whose combined experience spans media, interior design, business development, publishing, education, and design journalism. Together, they bring decades of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to recognising excellence within South Africa’s vibrant design industry.

Marlene van Rooyen is one of South Africa’s leading business development and media specialists, with almost three decades of experience helping businesses build powerful brands in increasingly competitive markets. An award-winning marketing consultant, publisher, speaker, business coach, and media strategist, she has dedicated her career to empowering entrepreneurs and creative businesses to stand out through strategic branding and innovative marketing. Her expertise brings a valuable commercial perspective to the judging panel, recognising installations that successfully combine creativity with strong brand storytelling.

Joining her is Christopher de Bod, one of South Africa’s most respected interior designers. With more than twenty years of award-winning experience, Christopher has created extraordinary residential interiors, commercial environments, retail destinations, and high-profile event installations that have earned widespread industry recognition. Renowned for designing spaces that evoke emotion while delivering exceptional functionality, his work is distinguished by a refined aesthetic, meticulous attention to detail, and an instinctive understanding of how interiors shape human experience. His eye for innovation and design excellence makes him uniquely positioned to evaluate the country’s most outstanding installations.

Completing the panel is our very own Marcia Margolius, whose career has helped shape South Africa’s décor and design landscape for more than thirty years. A qualified designer and decorator and a member of the South African Institute of the Interior Design Professions (IID), Marcia has become one of the industry’s most respected voices. Since beginning her writing career in 1994, she has authored numerous books and publications, including Create a Stylish Home, Skep ‘n Tuis met Styl, Leef Ruimtes, Living Spaces, Bed and Bath, Kitchen and Dining, and the annually published SA Décor & Design Buyers’ Guide. As an educator, industry commentator, exhibition contributor, and regular media personality across television, radio, and digital platforms, she brings an extensive understanding of design trends, craftsmanship, and editorial excellence to the judging process.

Together, this accomplished panel represents a unique balance of creative vision, technical expertise, business insight, and industry knowledge. Their combined experience ensures that every installation is assessed with integrity, professionalism, and an appreciation for the innovation that continues to define South African design.

The Africotta Installation of the Year Award is more than a competition; it is a celebration of the designers, architects, creatives, and visionaries who continue to transform spaces into unforgettable experiences, showcasing the remarkable talent shaping the future of South African design.