Nicolette Dirk
LOOKING for the latest decor trends, and perhaps cooking tips? Then this weekend’s Decorex exhibition at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is the place to be.
This year’s event, themed “The Home of Great Ideas”, starts today and will continue until Monday for the 12th year.
CTICC chief executive Julie-May Ellingson said that when the first Decorex was held in 2003, it attracted 35 000 visitors over the five-day period.
Last year, the event drew 42 900 visitors over the four days, and organisers once again anticipate numbers in excess of 40 000.
“By hosting an event of this nature, we create a platform for the industry to showcase the latest in decor and lifestyle trends, while simultaneously giving the public an opportunity to get an overview of what’s on the market, all under one roof,” she said.
When the Decorex exhibition was first held at the CTICC, there were just 150 exhibitors, but today it boasts more than 300.
Decorex SA marketing manager Sandra Jardim said the exhibition had a consumer and trade focus, where traders will get the opportunity to also source products and make contacts with other businesses.
There will be fun interactive installations and delicious eats, making it a great place to visit for inspiration, and to spend the day out.
“There will be a chef showcasing his cooking skills in one of the kitchens, and at the same time there will be a demonstration on styling your table for breakfast,” Jardim revealed.
She said that one of the most entertaining features at Decorex Cape Town was The Dining & Entertaining Theatre, which will provide fun home-entertaining talks and cooking demos by a host of engaging local chefs from a beautiful purpose-built kitchen.
“For those craving a bit of retail therapy, don’t miss the Craft & Create pavilion.
“This will be the ultimate marketplace for artisans, crafters and smaller local exhibitors, where visitors will be treated to a wide choice of wise buys. Because traders are drawn predominantly from Cape Town and its surrounds, Craft & Create will be a truly local affair.”
In addition to the comprehensive showcase of the latest products and services from the decor and design world, Decorex Cape Town is also presenting unique platforms to give visitors a taste of the latest decor, design and lifestyle trends.
There will also be a community-inspired showcase of the top talents at Inscape Design College, where three of its students will get the opportunity to exhibit their designs.