Decorex Africa: Key Shifts in the Design Landscape

Decorex Africa, the continent’s leading authority on décor, interior design, and lifestyle, has unveiled its Designers of the Year 2025, marking a significant milestone in the exhibition’s evolving pan-African vision. Reform Studio, a pioneering Egyptian sustainability innovator, has been named the Designer of the Year for Decorex Cape Town, while globally acclaimed Nigerian-born architect and designer Charles O Job takes the prestigious title for Decorex Joburg. The announcement coincides with the release of Decorex Africa’s highly anticipated 2025 State of the Industry Report, offering a snapshot of the design sector’s resilience and innovation in the face of economic challenges.

Decorex Designers of the Year 2025

Reform Studio, founded by Hend Riad and Mariam Hazem, has earned international recognition for its commitment to eco-friendly design. The studio’s revolutionary creation, Plastex—an innovative material made from discarded plastic bags—has been celebrated globally for its contribution to sustainable design. Additionally, Reform Studio has revitalized Egypt’s centuries-old weaving industry, preserving a traditional craft that had been at risk of extinction due to industrialization. Hazem notes, “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion that has gone into Reform Studio over the past decade. As designers, we thrive on the concept of designing for a cause, designing to solve problems and giving back.”

Charles O Job

Charles O Job, known for his minimalist aesthetic and innovative use of materials, has built a reputation for creating designs that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Job’s career has taken him from London to Paris and Zurich, infusing his work with global sensibilities while maintaining an emphasis on accessibility and practicality. Job expresses that the award is not just a recognition of his work but an affirmation of his continued contributions to design in Africa, stating, “It is ample affirmation that the things I continue to make and the path I continue to tread are not only valued but are deemed equally worthy on my mother continent.”

Both designers will have dedicated stands at Decorex shows and will present their “Body of Work” presentations at the 2025 Future Talks programme, offering insights into their careers and creative journeys.

State of the Industry 2025 Report

The announcement of the Designers of the Year comes as Decorex Africa reveals its 2025 State of the Industry Report, which highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by the design sector. Despite economic uncertainties, including inflation, rising material costs, and currency fluctuations, the report reveals that 80% of Southern African design professionals remain optimistic about the future. The industry has also seen a growing demand for personalization, with over 41% of professionals identifying this as a key opportunity.

Sustainability remains a dominant theme, with 76% of professionals noting its importance to clients. Furthermore, 47% of design professionals are already utilizing AI tools, and 67% view AI technology positively for the industry’s future.

Decorex Academy – A New Initiative

In addition to the Designer of the Year announcement, Decorex Africa has launched the Decorex Academy, an online membership platform for trade professionals in the design, décor, and architecture industries. The Academy offers year-round access to exclusive content, professional development opportunities, and VIP benefits, including CPD-accredited learning, access to the full State of the Industry Report, and VIP access to Decorex events. Sandra Jardim, Marketing Director of Decorex Africa, explains, “The Decorex Academy represents our commitment to nurturing the industry beyond our physical exhibitions. By providing continuous professional development, trend insights, and networking opportunities, we aim to support remarkable talent across our continent throughout the year.”

Trade visitors who upgrade to the VIP Trade Experience will gain access to the Decorex Academy and its full range of benefits, ensuring they stay at the forefront of the evolving design landscape.

For more information and to register for Decorex Cape Town and Joburg, visit Decorex Cape Town and Decorex Joburg. For additional updates, follow Decorex Africa on Instagram and Facebook, and visit the Decorex JRNL for the latest in décor and design industry news.