South Africans have never had more access to home design inspiration. From Pinterest boards and social media feeds to television shows and design exhibitions, consumers are constantly exposed to new ideas, aesthetics and emerging home trends.
Yet for many homeowners, the challenge remains the same: how do you turn inspiration into a space that works for your lifestyle, budget and everyday needs that’s reflects your style?
At Decorex Johannesburg 2026, Leroy Merlin South Africa will showcase how homeowners can bridge the gap between aspiration and action, bringing some of the year’s most talked-about design and home improvement trends to life through practical, achievable solutions.
As one of the world’s leading home improvement retailers, Leroy Merlin combines global expertise gained across multiple markets with an understanding of local lifestyles and consumer needs. This unique position allows the brand to identify emerging international trends while helping South Africans adapt them to their own homes in meaningful and accessible ways.
“South Africans are increasingly looking for homes that reflect who they are and how they live,” says Jillian Kay, Brand Strategy Leader of Leroy Merlin South Africa. “While global trends continue to inspire consumers, people are also looking for practical ways to incorporate those ideas into their homes. At Leroy Merlin, we believe great design should be accessible, achievable and relevant to everyday life.”
The Trends Shaping South African Homes
From global design capitals to local living rooms, several key trends are influencing the way homeowners are approaching their spaces in 2026.
Multi-functional living spaces continue to grow in popularity, as consumers seek homes that adapt to different needs throughout the day, from working and entertaining to relaxing and spending time with family.
There is also a growing focus on personalisation, with homeowners moving away from purely trend-driven interiors in favour of spaces that reflect their personalities, lifestyles and stories.
“We’re seeing a growing desire for homes that feel lived in rather than styled for social media,” says Kay. “People want spaces that tell their stories, celebrate their memories and reflect who they are. Nostalgia plays an important role in this, because it creates an emotional connection to our homes and reminds us of the moments and people that matter most.”
Outdoor living and entertaining remains a priority for South Africans looking to maximise every part of their home, while DIY-led improvements are empowering more consumers to take ownership of their spaces through achievable projects and affordable upgrades.
At Decorex Johannesburg, visitors will have the opportunity to explore how these trends can be translated into real-life solutions through products, expert guidance and practical ideas that can be implemented at home.
Bringing Global Inspiration Home
As a globally recognised home improvement brand, Leroy Merlin continuously draws inspiration from consumer behaviour, design innovations and home improvement trends from around the world.
However, Kay believes the future of home design lies in local interpretation.
“Global trends provide inspiration, but every home is unique,” he explains. “Our role is not simply to showcase what’s trending internationally, but to help customers understand how those ideas can work within their own spaces, budgets and lifestyles.
This approach aligns with the company’s broader commitment to empowering customers with the tools, knowledge and confidence needed to improve their homes, whether through small décor updates, DIY projects or larger home transformation journeys.
Adding to this, Kay says: “In celebration of Women’s Month, we are honoured to partner with two talented women whose work embodies creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship. Kirsten Lloyd, founder of Lo-Ki Interior Design and Development, has brought the Leroy Merlin Decorex stand to life, while Khanyisa Klaas, founder of Inspired by Woman, created the bespoke illustrations featured on our exclusive Leroy Merlin tote bags.
For us, these collaborations are about more than design. They are about recognising the important role women play in shaping spaces, industries and communities. By partnering with women-led businesses, we hope to inspire more South Africans to see how creativity and expertise can be translated into meaningful, accessible solutions for their own homes.”
See the Trends Come to Life at Decorex Johannesburg
As one of Africa’s leading design and lifestyle exhibitions, Decorex Johannesburg provides the ideal platform to explore the global inspiration and practical home improvement.
Visitors to the Leroy Merlin stand can expect design inspiration, expert insights and accessible solutions that demonstrate how today’s biggest trends can be transformed into real projects for real homes.
“Decorex is a celebration of creativity, innovation and the future of home décor and design,” concludes Kay. “For us, it is also an opportunity to show South Africans that creating a home they love doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right inspiration and practical support, anyone can bring great ideas to life.”