Decorex Africa has announced its 2026 theme, ‘The Soft Life’, a concept that redefines comfort and wellbeing in design. Moving away from the fast-paced, productivity-driven ethos, this theme embraces sensory comfort, intentional living, and restorative spaces. It positions comfort as a deliberate and culturally significant choice, rather than an indulgence.

A cultural shift in design

Unveiled at the Women in Design event in Cape Town, ‘The Soft Life’ highlights the human experience in design, focusing on wellbeing, clarity and care. It also foregrounds the female perspective in shaping interiors, offering a fresh lens on how spaces can support intentional, slower living. The theme introduces the idea of ‘soft power’ – the subtle yet impactful ability of design to shape perceptions, foster collaboration and create long-term opportunities.

Visual direction and colour palette

The visual language of ‘The Soft Life’ is a harmonious blend of earthy neutrals and vibrant accents. The core palette includes clay, deep plum, warm coral, sage and layered neutrals, evoking a sense of calm and grounding. These are contrasted with vivid, nature-inspired neons like electric lime, neon magenta and ultraviolet, adding energy and dynamism. The materials and forms are soft and tactile, creating a sensory experience that invites slowing down and deeper engagement.

Global collaboration with Maison&Objet Paris

In a significant move to elevate African design on the global stage, Decorex Africa has partnered with Maison&Objet Paris. This collaboration positions South Africa as the Spotlight Country for Maison&Objet’s Rising Talent programme at the September 2026 fair. This partnership not only boosts the visibility of African design but also creates pathways for local designers to access influential international platforms, fostering sustainable growth and cultural exchange.

Event details

Decorex Africa 2026 will be an immersive experience, featuring installations, curated products and talks that align with the theme. The event will take place in two locations:

Decorex Cape Town: 25-28 June 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre

Decorex Joburg: 30 July-2 August 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre

Both events will run daily from 10:00 to 18:00, offering a platform for design enthusiasts and professionals to explore the theme in depth.

A new era for African design

‘The Soft Life’ is more than a theme; it’s a cultural and design movement that prioritises wellbeing and intentional living. It signals a shift in contemporary design ethics, promoting emotional intelligence and slower living. By focusing on visibility and international collaboration, Decorex Africa 2026 aims to elevate African design in global conversations, showcasing its richness and innovation.