The Top Themes of Light + Building 2026
Architecture and technology are evolving worldwide – driven by digitalisation, urbanisation and the goal of climate neutrality. These forces are shaping how cities expand, how buildings are used, and how spaces are designed. From 8 to 13 March 2026, Light + Building in Frankfurt am Main will spotlight key future issues for the lighting and building services technology sectors. Three top themes will set the agenda for the future of the built environment: “Sustainable Transformation”, “Smart Connectivity” and “Living Light”.
Lighting in urban spaces: Outdoor lighting is a central element of Light + Building and it illustrates how lighting solutions can bring together design, safety and atmosphere in outdoor environments. (Source: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH / Pietro Sutera).
These three top themes reflect the key developments currently shaping the industry. They provide guidance in a dynamic market environment and highlight the technological, design-oriented and societal requirements that are shaping how we will build and live in the future. "Sustainable Transformation", "Smart Connectivity" and "Living Light" define the central fields of action in lighting and building services technology – ranging from climate-friendly energy supply and digital connectivity to the atmospheric qualities of light. They illustrate how technological innovation, architectural design and system integration can come together to create holistic solutions.
As the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building services technology, Light + Building 2026 brings together all the key stakeholders – creating space for inspiration, connection and innovation. In a highly dynamic market, it offers orientation, practical solutions and an interdisciplinary forum for future-ready planning, construction and living. Steffen Larbig, Director Brand Management for Light + Building, describes the significance of the top themes for this international innovation meeting point: “We use them to focus attention on the developments shaping the lighting and building technology sectors today – and which will be essential tomorrow. As an international platform, we offer the industry a space for dialogue, direction and fresh impetus. Our aim is to connect professionals from architecture, planning, industry, the skilled trades, real estate and the public sector, to promote exchange and jointly open up new perspectives for the built future.”
A closer look at the three top themes reveals the key content and priorities that Light + Building 2026 will focus on:
Sustainable Transformation
Smart Connectivity