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Regardless of any negative issues, one thing that can be said about South Africa is that we have a diverse nation that mostly smiles and has a great sense of humour and we have no issues laughing at ourselves and seeing a funny side to most situations. Combine this with our fantastic weather and scenic landscapes and it is no wonder that we are starting to see a quirky and unique design language being created that spans everything from architecture to scatter cushions, light fittings, furniture, fabrics and decor accessories. In fact at long last we are seeing a definitive trend and styling taking place, which is typical of our nation and diverse cultures as opposed to replication of international styles which has been our general trait for many years. This is however something that has been gaining momentum over many years and not something that has just appeared, this reiterates the fact that it is certainly not a fad but a true new identity in design that will continue to evol

There is currently a large shift in direction taking place both locally as well as internationally in the move away from curtains towards blinds. Exceptionally popular in the 80's, technological advancements have once again made this window covering trendy and desirable. The varieties of options are immense insuring there are options to delight the senses of both contemporary and well as classical tastes. Overall trend directions point to a simplified uncluttered space, with a reduction in glitz and glam and unnecessary ornamentation and embellishment. Even hardcore traditionalists are being a little less rigid and appreciating a more simplified approach to decor and design. Possibly the most popular style of blind over recent years has been the wooden Venetian slatted blind. These are available in different widths and either as real timber or cheaper faux wood options, due to the timeless style of blind in a host of different timber finishes adds immediate warmth to any spac

Book your seat. Referred to by many as one of the countries leading design & retail trend forecasters, Dave Nemeth will be presenting his annual trend forecast for 2015 / 2016. The forecast has been running for four years and last year saw a sell out crowd of just over 400 people. Dave Nemeth has presented to, as well as consulted to some of South Africa's leading corporate companies and institutions. He writes for a host of leading publications and is often interviewed on both radio and television regarding his innovation thinking and forecasting. This year’s talk is entitled Creative Disruption and promises to provide great insights into design! This presentation is guaranteed to have you leaving feeling highly inspired and motivated. For further information you can contact Dave on 082 652 0976 or daven@worldonline.co.za

Decor One of the biggest trends we are currently seeing, which will continue to strengthen into 2014 and 2015, is the rise of the artisan and artisanal products. There is a very visible backlash to mass production and especially that of the East and consumers are wanting products with a certain authenticity and originality. Through all industries we are seeing an increase in popularity from craft beer to artisanal coffee and chocolate. Hand-made, along with crafted products, will be favourable in the decor and homeliving sector as we see the merging of art, craft and design. Products which are made and designed in South Africa will continue to grow in popularity as more and more people subscribe to buying with a conscience and understand the importance of buying local products. Tactility is another buzzword in both decor and architecture and we will continue to see the popularity of rough and less refined materials such as aged timber, rusted metal and concrete. Large items such