B2B Central

Industry Trends

19 Aug 2026

Cemcrete BrickWash and Pool Quartz: Textured cement finishes for modern design

By Staff Writer

Cemcrete, a leader in cement-based decorative finishes, has unveiled two innovative products – BrickWash and Pool Quartz. These textured cement finishes are designed to meet the needs of architects and designers seeking durable, tactile surfaces that celebrate materiality and tonal variation. Inspired by natural landscapes, both products offer a handcrafted aesthetic that prioritises authenticity over uniformity. BrickWash:...
19 Aug 2026

Spring kitchen design trends 2026: Warmer materials and smarter taps

By Staff Writer

Spring is here, and with it comes a fresh perspective on kitchen design. The trends for 2026 are all about creating warmer, more practical spaces that blend natural materials with innovative technology. Kitchens are evolving from purely decorative spaces into functional, personalised hubs. A shift towards warmer palettes and natural materials The all-white kitchen is...
23 Jul 2026

Rethinking office costs: Transforming workplaces into strategic assets

By Staff Writer

In today’s evolving work environment, South African businesses are rethinking their approach to office spaces. With hybrid work models, rising operational costs and shifting workforce expectations, the traditional view of offices as mere cost centres is no longer sufficient. Rather, companies are beginning to see their workplaces as strategic assets that can drive productivity, reduce...
09 Jul 2026

Neuro-inclusive workplace design: The new standard

By Staff Writer

The workplace is changing. For the first time, it is changing in a way that actually works for every kind of mind. For years, office design leaned heavily on open-plan layouts, collaboration-first spaces and the assumption that one space should serve every purpose. We now know that approach does not just fail neurodivergent employees. It...
25 Jun 2026

Future Talks 2026 – Decorex Cape Town (25–28 June, CTICC)

By Staff Writer

Future Talks 2026 at Decorex Cape Town this weekend is set to inspire and educate design enthusiasts, trade professionals and creatives. The four-day programme (25–28 June 2026) at the CTICC, focuses on wellbeing, sensory experiences and restoration in design. Why attend Future Talks 2026? Attending Future Talks 2026 offers numerous benefits: Key speakers and highlights Designer of the...
25 Jun 2026

Decorex 2026: Embracing ‘The Soft Life’ in design

By Staff Writer

In 2026, Decorex Africa is redefining the design landscape with its theme, The Soft Life. This concept champions sensory comfort, intentional living, and wellbeing, framing comfort as a cultural necessity rather than a luxury. The theme mirrors a global shift towards slower, more restorative living, with design actively fostering this transformation. A celebration of soft power...
25 Jun 2026

Decorex Cape Town: What to expect

By Staff Writer

Decorex Cape Town 2026 is one of the most anticipated design events on the African calendar. Over four days, this premier decor and design platform will bring together hundreds of brands, thousands of ideas, and countless opportunities to explore the future of African design. Hosted at the CTICC from 25-28 June 2026, the event is...
29 May 2026

Creating biodiverse gardens: How small choices can protect the environment

By Staff Writer

As urban pressures reshape our landscapes, biodiverse gardens have become a vital part of sustainable living. Simbithi Eco Estate Environmental Manager Ayanda Duma explains how homeowners can create biodiverse outdoor spaces that enhance property value, support local ecosystems and build long-term environmental resilience. Why biodiversity matters at home Firstly, biodiversity in residential gardens helps restore...
04 May 2026

Innovative sustainable packaging unveiled at interpack

By Staff Writer

KHS unveils innovative, sustainable packaging solutions like BottleClip and Nature MultiPack at interpack, revolutionising beverage packaging systems. The KHS Group redefines line and packaging expertise: from May 7 to 13 at interpack in Düsseldorf, Germany, the Dortmund systems manufacturer will be demonstrating the benefits of perfectly attuned systems and solutions – from sustainable packaging to...
30 Apr 2026

Beauty redefined: Trend takeaways from Takealot House of Beauty

By Abby Vorster

Takealot House of Beauty 2026 returned to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg from 24 to 26 April 2026 – and it did not disappoint. Part beauty playground, part brand showcase, and part live-shopping experience, the event brought together an impressive line-up of local and international brands – all under one roof and all...
22 Apr 2026

Global workplace trends: The rise of the hybrid office

By Staff Writer

Hybrid office trends: Redefining workspaces for collaboration and flexibility The global workplace is undergoing a transformation. Organisations are rethinking how and where work happens, with hybrid office trends leading the way. Flexible, experience-driven workplaces are becoming the norm, designed to enhance collaboration, focus and employee wellbeing. According to Microsoft’s Work Trend Index, 85% of business...
10 Apr 2026

Smart charging to transform building energy management in SA

By Staff Writer

The African electric vehicle market presents unprecedented opportunities for building energy transformation. Grace Olorunsola, Offer Manager for e-Mobility at Schneider Electric, explains how smart charging technology reshapes building energy systems across South Africa. Furthermore, the continent’s EV market projects growth to nearly USD 6 billion by 2031, reflecting a compound annual growth rate exceeding 50%....