This June, Cape Town will once again become the epicentre of design thinking on the African continent as Future Talks 2026 returns to Decorex Cape Town 2026 with one of its most ambitious and globally connected programmes to date.
Running from 25 to 28 June 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the four-day thought leadership platform promises far more than trend forecasting and aesthetic inspiration. Presented by Oggie, Future Talks 2026 gathers over 40 influential voices from across Africa and the globe for a series of conversations examining how people live, build, create and emotionally experience spaces in a rapidly evolving world.
Against the backdrop of this year’s Decorex theme, The Soft Life, the programme dives into a deeper and more human-centred conversation around design. Not simply about luxury or visual appeal, the theme interrogates how interiors, architecture and creative businesses are adapting to modern demands for wellbeing, restoration, comfort and sensory connection.
In a world increasingly defined by overstimulation, uncertainty and speed, Future Talks arrives at the perfect moment — asking what it truly means to create spaces with soul.
A Global Design Conversation with African Roots
One of the defining strengths of Future Talks 2026 is its powerful balance between international influence and African creative identity.
Among the headline names is Laurence Leenaert and LRNCE, named Decorex 2026 Designer of the Year. Known globally for layered interiors, handcrafted objects and emotionally resonant spaces, the Marrakech-based studio has become synonymous with collectible design that merges craftsmanship, storytelling and intimacy.
Their session is expected to unpack why audiences across the world are increasingly gravitating toward interiors that feel personal, tactile and deeply human rather than overly polished or sterile.
Africa’s growing influence within global design conversations will also take centre stage through a compelling dialogue featuring Titi Ogufere of Lagos Design Week. The discussion will explore the expanding relationship between African creative platforms and the rise of “soft power” through design, culture and collaboration.
Adding another international perspective is Brazilian creative voice Julia Franco of Nosso, whose spotlight conversation will examine the intersection of global craft traditions, culture and material expression.
Architecture, Materiality and the Future of Practice
Architecture and spatial innovation will form a major pillar of the programme.
Industry leaders ARRCC principals Jon Case and Mark Rielly will lead The Fifth Façade, bringing architectural thinking and spatial identity into focus.
Meanwhile, The Shape of Practice, chaired by Chris Reid, will examine the realities currently shaping the architecture industry, from sustainability and business evolution to changing client expectations and creative resilience.
Material storytelling also takes centre stage through Ten by Ten, featuring respected design voices including Binky Newman, Sandile Cele and The Minimalist.
Another anticipated session, Material Comforts, explores how texture, tactility and fine detail impact emotional experience within contemporary spaces — a conversation that aligns seamlessly with the broader Soft Life philosophy.
Emerging Voices Step into the Spotlight
Future Talks 2026 is not only celebrating established names. It is also actively investing in the next generation of African design talent.
Emerging creatives Walter Train and Mpumelelo from Good Better Best Studio will appear during the 100% Fresh segment, giving audiences a glimpse into the ideas and approaches shaping the future of design on the continent.
The programme also tackles the realities of entrepreneurship through The Business of Design, hosted in partnership with Capitec. The session follows the journeys of emerging studios navigating the challenge of building sustainable and scalable creative businesses in an increasingly competitive industry.
Designing for Restoration, Ritual and Human Experience
As the series draws to a close, Future Talks turns its attention toward emotional wellbeing and experiential living.
Experiential Lighting, hosted by Martin Doller, will explore how lighting design shapes atmosphere, behaviour and mood beyond pure functionality.
Meanwhile, Ritual, Rest and Repair features Roxanne Kaye of SAOTA, examining how architecture and interiors can support restoration, mindfulness and deeper emotional connection in modern living.
Guiding audiences through the programme is multidisciplinary storyteller Bathandwa Ngwendu, whose thoughtful approach promises to bring depth and authenticity to each conversation.
More Than an Event — A Reflection of Where Design is Headed
Future Talks 2026 reflects a growing global shift in the design industry — one where emotional resonance, cultural authenticity, sustainability and wellbeing are becoming just as important as aesthetics.
Presented by Decorex Africa, the platform continues to position Africa not merely as a participant in global design conversations, but increasingly as a leading voice shaping them.
Attendees across the full programme will also have the opportunity to earn 2.0 CPD credits, making the series valuable for trade professionals, architects, designers, creatives, media and enthusiasts alike.
With conversations spanning architecture, business, craft, cultural exchange and sensory design, Future Talks 2026 is shaping up to be one of the continent’s most important creative gatherings of the year.
Event Information
Decorex Cape Town 2026
- Dates: 25–28 June 2026
- Time: 10am–6pm daily
- Venue: CTICC 1, 1 Lower Long Street, Cape Town
- Tickets:
- Online Adults: R150
- Onsite Adults: R160
- Pensioners/Students: R120
- Kids (12–16): R50
- Kids under 12: Free
- VIP: R400
- Bookings: Decorex Cape Town Bookings
Decorex Joburg 2026
- Dates: 30 July – 2 August 2026
- Venue: Sandton Convention Centre
- Tickets:
- Online Adults: R160
- Onsite Adults: R170
- Pensioners/Students: R130
- Kids (12–16): R50
- Kids under 12: Free
- VIP: R450
- Bookings: Decorex Joburg Bookings
