“Rather late than never” I say...I’ve been meaning to give our décor lovers feedback on this past Decorex show but have been snowed-in under piles of deadlines that have taken me to Rome and back, or so I wish, but nonetheless the show was amazing and I just couldn’t pass by the opportunity to share this with you.

This year saw an amazing 54 891 people walk down the many isles of the popular décor, design and lifestyle event and had many in agreement that this year had been the best Decorex Joburg ever.  It’s incredible to see a consistent improvement in the quality of décor and design products available in South Africa, calling for great celebration as more and more of our designers products are being marketed overseas. 

My highlights of this year’s show included:

-          An installation by Decorex SA patron Stephen Falcke showcasing a sophisticated African interior setting.

-          The annual unveiling of the 2014 Plascon colour forecast for next year at the Plason Colour pavilion.

-          The Volvo #MADEFORYOU Designer Pods in which four designers were invited to interpret the style and class of a Volvo vehicle on their stands.

 -          The KWV Brandy Cellar, Graham Beck wine bar by Wetherlys and the Concreate Tea Room were all stylish and convenient eateries situated within the halls of Decorex Joburg.

-          The Samsung Inspire Theatre entertained and inspired visitors with demonstrations from chefs, cocktail experts and lifestyle gurus.

-          An entrance installation tracking the 20 years that Decorex Joburg has been “growing design”.

One of my absolute favourite stands (shown above) was that of Tessa Proudfoot whom just so happened to win the award for the “Best Overall Stand”.  Her use of my two favourite colours in home decor, white and blue, saw her create a salon style lounge to launch her new fabric collection with St Leger and Viney and deserves a special mention.

Other winners were interior decorator Andrew Mackenzie for Best Small Stand, Caesarstone for Best in the Kitchen and Bathroom section, Forest Flooring for best in the Fine Finishes hall and Concreate and Eva Last for the Best Green Product. The Best Décor award went to Conde Nast House and Garden.

With that said, not everyone can be mentioned or be winners but the overall take on my part is that I’ll surely not miss next years Decorex Joburg and that my money was well spent with all the new great ideas I’m taking home with me.  If you want to learn more about these years’ winners, go to www.decorex.co.za