Following a succesful launch in Johannesburg, Design Week South Africa, powered by Yoco, is ready to light up Cape Town from October 24 to 27. The Joburg events celebrated local talent and creativity with a vibrant mix of pop-ups, discussions, and exhibitions, setting the stage for Cape Town to take a turn in this design showcase.
Margot Molyneux, the founder of Design Week South Africa, was thrilled by the positive reception in Johannesburg. “We were blown away by the general positivity and enthusiasm shown for Design Week,” she remarked. “From fashion to urban design, furniture to interiors - leaving me filled with the greatest sense of pride .” As Cape Town gears up for its turn, the anticipation is palpable, with over 40 events planned to immerse attendees in the local design landscape.
What Awaits in Cape Town
Cape Town's lineup promises something for everyone, whether you’re a design professional or simply curious about the creative process:
Thought-Provoking Discussions: Engage with industry leaders in a series of discussions that tackle pressing design topics. Notable sessions include:
“The Future of Regenerative Design” hosted by Chommies
“Sensible Upcycling in the Arts” by Duck Duck Goose
“Mapping South African Archives for the Future” at the historic Belmond Mount Nelson
Behind-the-Scenes Access: Take a peek into the studios and factories of some of South Africa’s most innovative designers. Highlights include:
Wunders’ Factory Tour, featuring sustainable production methods
Skinny laMinx’s Studio, where vibrant textiles come to life
Social Gatherings: For those looking to mingle, the event features a variety of social gatherings. Enjoy live music and festive atmospheres at venues like Nosso and Gorgeous George, perfect for networking with fellow creatives.
Captivating Exhibitions: Explore eye-catching installations such as the “African Chair” exhibition in partnership with House and Leisure, and witness the launch of fresh collections from local designers like Hoi P’loy and Cape Cobra.
Urban Exploration: Free architectural tours will allow participants to discover the city’s design highlights. Guided walks include a tour of the revamped Cape Town Train Station and an exploration of local businesses with the Yoco team.
One of the most intriguing features is a modular parklet created by Flatrock Studios at the Cape Town Train Station. This installation not only serves as a community gathering space but also challenges conventional notions of urban design, advocating for accessible public areas that benefit everyone.
Embracing Open Streets
On October 27, the Open Streets Experiment will transform Bree Street into a pedestrian-friendly haven, featuring installations and activities aimed at making urban spaces more inviting and enjoyable. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the need for public spaces that prioritise people over cars.
Design Week South Africa is more than a series of events; it's a celebration of creativity that showcases the vibrant design scene in South Africa. Whether you're an industry insider or just curious about design, there's an abundance of inspiration to be found.
To explore the full lineup of events and secure your place, visit Design Week South Africa and follow @designafricasouthafrica on Instagram.
