Sandton Convention Centre came alive this past Saturday as design lovers, families, creatives, and curious minds gathered for the latest edition of Decorex Johannesburg – a celebration of interior design, innovation, and the evolving aesthetic of modern living.
What’s unfolding now is a deeper evolution: a cityscape that is as much about architecture and artistry as it is about affluence.
But Decorex wasn’t just about furniture and fabric swatches. It was a multi-sensory experience – one that revealed a side of Sandton many might overlook. Known as the “richest square mile in Africa,” Sandton is often praised for its corporate sheen and luxury malls. Yet what’s unfolding now is a deeper evolution: a cityscape that is as much about architecture and artistry as it is about affluence.
A Walk Through Sandton’s Living Canvas
For those who’ve never explored Sandton beyond its glossy shopfronts, this exhibition was a prompt to look again – and look deeper. From the moment you enter the Convention Centre through its lesser-used over-the-ground tunnels, the city opens up in surprising ways. The architectural marvels lining the walkways – bold, modern, and increasingly expressive – hint at a future Johannesburg CBD, where form meets function in breathtaking fashion.
“I’ve been coming to Sandton for years, but this time I really saw it. The buildings, the textures, the skyline – it’s not what it was five or even ten years ago… It’s like Jozi’s CBD has a second life in Sandton.”
Lighting as Art: The Majestic Installations of Decorex
Once inside the exhibition, attendees were greeted by awe-inspiring installations. Perhaps the most memorable were the majestic lighting displays – a reimagining of everyday functionality into sculptural brilliance. It was a reminder that light isn’t just a utility; it can be an emotional and visual centerpiece in any space.
Designers pushed the boundaries with hanging fixtures that danced, glowed, and shimmered. For anyone who has ever lived under the dull glow of a bare globe bulb, this was a masterclass in what’s possible when creativity meets craftsmanship.
Art That Speaks Volumes
Decorex also showcased a rich collection of African contemporary art. Visitors moved through galleries filled with standout pieces, including those by and inspired by Nelson Makamo, known for his soulful portraits and expressive brushwork. Some works echoed his style, while others offered entirely new visual vocabularies – such as pieces influenced by Nigerian aesthetics, bringing bold textures, vibrant colors, and culturally layered storytelling into the spotlight.
“While some pieces looked like Nelson’s, others were completely different, but equally powerful. It made you think about how African visual identity is growing and diversifying”
Beyond the Expected
What made this year’s Decorex so compelling was its ability to surprise even the seasoned design observer. It wasn’t just about trends – it was about taste, space, identity, and evolution. It was about where Sandton is going, and how design is helping it get there.
Whether you were drawn by the luxury interiors, the innovation in lighting, or the artwork rooted in African expression, Decorex 2025 delivered.
