Applications for Design Week South Africa 2026 have officially opened. Designers, studios, brands, galleries, as well as representatives from the hospitality and retail sectors can submit their applications by August 2nd.
Events and Theme
This year, the exhibition will take place in two cities: Johannesburg from October 8th to 11th and Cape Town from October 22nd to 25th. The central theme of the event will be 'The Shape of Us,' which aims to encourage local creatives to explore how identity, history, and forward momentum shape contemporary South African design.
Opportunities for Participants
Participation in Design Week provides direct access to a design-aware audience, as well as to local and international media outlets that attend the event annually. Previous editions have attracted the attention of global design publications, so the reach extends far beyond the cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Who Can Apply
Designers, studios, collectives, architectural and interior design firms, creative agencies, hospitality venues, retailers, galleries, and brands with a genuine connection to design can apply. Participants can choose to participate in one city or both.