LRNCE, a Morocco-based design brand, has won the Decorex Africa Designer of the Year award for 2026 [1].
The recognition highlights a shift toward place-based design in the African market, rewarding the integration of traditional craftsmanship into modern commercial objects.
Founded by Laurence Leenaert in 2013 [2], LRNCE has focused on bridging the gap between artisanal techniques and contemporary aesthetics. The brand is based in Morocco, where it draws inspiration from local materials and heritage to create objects that resonate with a global audience.
Decorex Africa selected the brand for its ability to translate Moroccan craft into contemporary objects [1]. The award recognizes LRNCE for shaping the conversation around slower, place-based design, a movement that prioritizes local production and cultural specificity over mass-market speed [1].
By centering its production in Morocco, the brand maintains a direct connection to the artisans and materials that define its identity. This approach allows LRNCE to maintain a distinct aesthetic that reflects the geographical and cultural nuances of its origin [2].
The 2026 award serves as a benchmark for how design studios can scale their influence while remaining rooted in specific regional traditions [1].
“LRNCE was recognized for translating Moroccan craft into contemporary objects.”
The selection of LRNCE as Designer of the Year signals a growing industry preference for 'slow design' and cultural authenticity over generic minimalism. By rewarding a brand that blends 2013-era foundational goals with 2026 market trends, Decorex Africa is validating a business model that leverages regional heritage as a competitive advantage in the global luxury and design sectors.
