Space for a new way of thinking: Light + Building 2024 shapes the future of lighting and living spaces

Under the motto “Be electrified”, Light + Building shows how intelligent energy management networks function and how household consumption can be optimized with electricity-generating systems, enabling savings of up to 30%. The three main themes of “Connectivity”, “Sustainability” and “Work + Living” run like a golden thread through the event – from lectures to special shows.

• “Sustainability” focuses on the importance of sustainability, from the integration of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic systems to solutions for energy management and storage. The integration of photovoltaics (PV) plays a central role in a sustainable energy future, which the trade fair highlights with solutions for PV systems and energy storage.

• “Connectivity” highlights the role of digitalization and networking in efficient resource management. In smart homes and smart buildings, electrification and digitalization form the basis for the successful integration of different systems. With Gira Eco, for example, the charging station of an electric car can easily be integrated into a KNX Smart Home. This means that the charging process can be controlled intuitively at any time via the Gira Smart Home App or the Gira G1.

• The “Work + Living” theme addresses the changing needs of living and working spaces and the importance of lighting technology for quality of life. The design of spaces has a significant impact on well-being, with innovative lighting technologies and designs playing a key role.

In cooperation with the trend bureau, Bora.Herke.Palmisano, Messe Frankfurt also presents the Light + Building Trends 2024/25. As an important design element, light not only sets visual accents, but also blends in perfectly with architecture. Among the many impulses that came out of the event, three main trends stood out that not only touch the technological future of living, but also the heart of design and sustainability: “Welcome Tomorrow”, “Embrace Simplicity”, and “Create Uniqueness”.

The “Welcome Tomorrow” trend invites the industry and visitors to push the boundaries of the imaginable and immerse themselves in a world where light not only illuminates but enchants. By using advanced technologies and playing with visual effects, lighting solutions are created that bring movement, colour changes and sensory experiences into the space. These innovative concepts open up new dimensions of interior design, in which light is not only functional but becomes a central element of the emotional and aesthetic effect of the space.

As a leading innovator in the field of intelligent home and lighting control, Gira presented intelligent lighting systems at the fair that seamlessly integrate into this vision. The new products, such as the DALI Gateway Colour for KNX, make it possible to adapt the lighting to one’s individual daily routine and thus support “Human Centric Lighting”, which respects and promotes the natural rhythm of the human being.

In contrast to the technological wizardry of “Welcome Tomorrow”, the “Embrace Simplicity” trend emphasizes the beauty of simplicity and deliberate design. It focuses on the harmony between space, light, and materials, with an emphasis on sustainability, functionality, and emotional design. Natural materials and purist forms tell stories of craftsmanship and authenticity, creating a calm and inspiring atmosphere. This approach reflects a growing need to slow down and a desire to focus on the essentials.

Gira responds to this trend with the new Gira E1 design line, which is characterized by a minimalist but expressive design and can be used for over 300 functions from the Gira System 55. The design line combines sustainability and functionality with a timeless design that blends seamlessly into any ambience.

“Create Uniqueness” celebrates individuality and artistic freedom in the design of light and space. This trend reveals a preference for the extraordinary and unconventional – for designs that tell stories and infuse rooms with character. By combining different materials, shapes, and technologies, unique lighting concepts and design pieces are created that transform the room into a personal space for expression.

Gira answers this call with design innovations such as the Gira System 106 in matt black, which enhances any entrance area and adapts to many environments. The matt surface texture and the resistant powder coating give the product a unique, timelessly stylish appearance that underlines the individuality of the user.

In addition to these inspiring trends, Light + Building also presented concrete product innovations that embody the intersection of technology, design, and sustainability. The focus is on intelligent switches and smart home systems that intuitively adapt to the needs of the user while maximizing energy efficiency and comfort.

Gira has been focusing on economic, ecological, and social responsibility for many years and is committed to conserving resources, using renewable energy, and developing products that promote climate protection. With a strong focus on the well-being of its employees and social commitment in the region, Gira sets standards in sustainable product development and shows how intelligent design and technology can shape tomorrow's living.