Decorex Joburg 2017 showcases Africa’s best in Décor, Lifestyle and Design
Thousands of visitors passed through seven enticingly curated exhibition halls featuring the latest lifestyle products and on-trend décor and design furnishings and accessories at Decorex Joburg which took place at Gallagher Convention Centre from 9 to 13 August.
“This was, beyond measure, one of the best Decorex Joburg exhibitions and I feel the event perfectly captured the irrepressible energy that makes this one of the most exciting cities to visit,” said Sian Cullingworth, Portfolio Director: Design, Lifestyle, and Retail Exhibitions. “The colors and textures were incredibly diverse, giving visitors a real taste of the trends that have taken hold of this year, while also getting a sense of what will be weaving its way onto 2018’s canvas. Design, like any art form, is an ever-changing, energized discipline with no clear-cut lines and I think this was very evident in the incredible fabrics, products, and designs that featured at Decorex Joburg 2017. I just cannot wait to see what the next year holds.”
Cementing its reputation as Africa’s premier décor, design, and lifestyle exhibition, Decorex Joburg welcomed a number of new features to its impressive program, while retaining popular installations. One new feature, the Decorex SA Trend House, managed to touch on a number of design influences all of which were cunningly curated by Anita Bloom, Creative Director: Lifestyle, Design and Retail Portfolio, into a home space that gave visitors a chance to see the trends in action.
A perennial favorite once again drew in big crowds as the team from Kansai Plascon revealed the bold new colors for 2018 during the Plascon Colour Forecast. Color experts were on-hand to discuss the latest color developments with visitors while giving useful color contrasting options for home improvements.
Visitors were then transported to Hall 6 for the newly curated Art * Wine * Design section where they enjoyed some old-world continental charm with tasteful touches of Africa. The Hall was completed in warm, terracotta color palette and neutrals from Kansai Plascon paint colors with touches of the whimsical ocean.
Colour and style continued at Caesarstone where event co-sponsor showcased the three enchanting new designs to their collection, inspired by the exquisite appearance of natural stone. Moorland Fog, Montblanc and Rugged Concreate feature a variety of intricate veins, bold colors, and textures.
South Africa’s leading product design showcase, 100% Design South Africa, took place alongside Decorex Joburg for the fourth year. Visitors were treated to stimulating and inspiring displays from over 130 local and international exhibitors, showcasing only the best in furniture design, textiles, lighting, wallpaper and product design. Local craft talent extended into Hall 5 where 60 enterprises, representing the South African Craft Collective (SACC), showcased a variety of home, gift and fashion accessories among others. These crafts, suited to the local and international market, were snapped up onsite at the SACC Collective Shop.
Local talent was further illuminated at the Décor District presented by Canvex where designers, Décor Identity, Bockhaus Designs, Distinctive Designs Group and Mia Bella Interiors were able to project their vision for this year’s trends in a room setting while incorporating the Canvex ‘Conscious Environment’ and Decorex SA #livingdream themes.
‘Lavish simplicity’ of the interior-exterior living space emerged at this year’s Decorex Designer Spotlight where Sandton-based design studio, Baxburg, showed exactly why they’re at the forefront of the integrated interior and landscape design.
Patron of Decorex Joburg and award-winning interior designer, Stephen Falcke, once again displayed his inimitable style. Drawing on his extensive travel influences, he curated a masterpiece bathroom space which oozed luxury and sophistication through the incorporation of an antique copper bath and basin, mirrors, chairs and a daybed. This modern space was completed in a stunning cobalt blue and golden yellow bringing warmth to this retro installation.
The emphasis of the natural element and its importance in day-to-day living entwined its way into the Forest Lounge feature. Brought to life by Andy from Distinctive Designs, this feature perfectly captured the Urban Jungle trend which incorporated nature’s neutral color palette and life-giving energy into this exquisite forest setting.
Visitors were also given a unique insight into why the kitchen is increasingly becoming a central focus of the home in the Kitchen Trend Feature presented by Careline Living Space. Also interpreting 2017’s kitchen trends in an appetizing installation were Eurofit Kitchens and Cupboards, Unique Kitchens, Micah Kitchens, and Universal Kitchens and Granite; all of whom participated in the popular Franke Kitchen Design Project feature, this year themed ‘Simplicity in Design’.
Keeping things heated in the kitchen was the Gourmet Cooking Theatre – sponsored by Hirsch’s and Whirlpool. Here, entertaining local chefs gave home-inspired talks while performing fantastic cooking demonstrations, all in a trendy kitchen installation with countertops sponsored by Caesarstone and sink and tap installations sponsored by Franke SA.
Helpful insights continued at the Builders DIY Theatre where Builders’ Home Made Easy (The Home Channel on DSTV 176) presenters, Tanya Visser, Elle Franco and winner of the Builders’ presenter search, Ryan Paulsen, as well as DIY guru, Dave van den Bergh all put on a great demonstration of home DIY projects including making a side table from a scrap of wood and a wine rack using only copper piping.
Design fused effortlessly with great taste at the new installation, Noir Restaurant + Bar presented by Bavaria. This gracefully classic creation, which perfectly portrayed the extravagant Black on Black trend, and styled by Colette Living kept visitors hydrated with a range of drinks including Bavaria’s delectably fruity non-alcoholic options. And for those looking for a warm beverage, the Coffee Cup by Illy had the perfect selection of percolated brews to keep the winter chill at bay.
Tasty milkshakes, popcorn, donuts, macaroons and even delectable healthy alternatives were on the menu at the Milk JUG Café, a children’s eatery and entertainment feature located in the heart of the children’s décor stand.
And to ensure every exciting element was given its due, this year saw the introduction of the fully-equipped Bloggers Lounge where the country’s leading trendsetters could enjoy a complimentary cup of Illy Coffee while crafting some creative décor copy.
Decorex Joburg 2017 showcases Africa’s best in Décor, Lifestyle and Design https://t.co/ZUrj9TWgpY #ArriveAlive @decorexSA pic.twitter.com/56U8PY4jzN
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) August 16, 2017
