The future looks bright: Light + Building 2020

Nothing is as permanent as light. No wonder that even in times of dynamic change it finds new ways to stylishly, flexibly and, above all, intelligently accompany us through our days and nights. A timeless phenomenon that the current edition of Light + Building presents not only from a modern, hi-tech point of view as a smart, connected dimension of our environment, but also in all its most beautiful, aesthetic forms.

It all really comes down to how you light it up. Even the aristocracy knew this when they established the chandelier back in the 17th-century, adding a dose of splendour to their celebrations. With its soft golden light, it not only illuminated decor and society itself, it was the crowning glory of any interior, a sculptural illumination, a true visual highlight – and remains so today, just as then. Today, of course, crystal, luxury luminaires coexist with far lighter, and indeed often formless, variants and flickering candlelight replaced with lighting systems that answer not to the butler but the control systems of smart homes and buildings.

As a lighting trendsetter, Light + Building – the world's leading trade fair for lighting and building technology – will be presenting a multi-faceted spectrum of current luminaire design in Frankfurt am Main from 8 to 13 March 2020 – not least its role as a networked technology in intelligent buildings. While the top themes of ‘Connecting’ and ‘Pioneering’ look at progressive building technologies in the urban space, the innovations platform ‘Fascinating’ and its four areas of focus will show us the level of creative sophistication that exists in today’s lighting solutions as well as the possibilities which are opened up by them.

After all, light today is much more than a design element; it’s part of us, accompanying us and influencing our mood and well-being. In the morning, for example, we are awakened by a reddish sunrise that slowly develops into a sunny yellow, bright as daylight. Then we go to the office, whose lighting moods support our circadian rhythms in a meaningful way, increasing our happiness and productivity. Back at home at the end of the day, dimmed lights make us feel relaxed and then as night arrives, targeted ambient lighting gifts us feelings of warmth and security. Human Centric Lighting is the name of the trend that, thanks to innovative technologies, adapts to our human needs and promotes health and concentration – whether in our own living space, in offices, schools, hospitals or any other public space.

The focus area ‘Functional Aesthetics’ is dedicated to this situational interplay of light. Here, form recedes into the background, and pushes atmosphere centre stage. Thus the living room is transformed by touch, intuitive gesture or light-sensor from a cosy family centre to a home office, the multifunctional hotel lobby to an atmospheric cocktail bar and even a church to a concert hall. Variable light track systems, new materials and exciting technologies mix and match across all disciplines – form following function here in an inspiring way.

And can a show really call itself a show if it doesn't present the real classics? Of course not. From minimalist Nordic design to industrial chic to extroverted Italian elegance – Light + Building lets ‘Classical Authenticity’ and its renowned representatives shine through all eras and styles. And under the title ‘Historical Rise’, visitors will learn how style-defining archetypes such as the chandelier have remained relevant through the ages by simply adapting – even today in our digital times.

But back to the future now – because it's important to keep moving forward: where it’s ever more important to have a constant companion who is not only flexible but also thinks along with you. The ‘Futuristic Focus’ area revolves around ‘Light to go’, new LED technologies, product hybrids that not only give light but also absorb sound, green urban living, and of course sustainability – an essential aspect that runs through all the focal points.

All of these themes can be really lived and experienced in Light + Building’s ‘Trend Forum’, which, in collaboration with Stilbüro bora.herke.palmisano, will present various extraordinary living scenarios and selected products. The ‘Young Design Area’ also provides a breath of fresh air – it being the place where young talents will present their exclusive one-off pieces for the first time. Whether multimedia chandeliers or sparkling lightsabers, it’s exciting to see what the future holds for light. In any case, it will be bright and enlightening in Frankfurt at the beginning of March. And not just for house and home!

© Architonic