Lighting trends for 2026/27: Inspiration for design and spatial effects

Lightness and subtle design ideas are the defining motifs in “sensuous atmospheres” – for a sensual, enveloping sense of space as well as for an expansive, mysterious staging in outdoor areas. Subtle luminaire designs and gentle lighting effects create a soothing touch for the senses and create intimate, relaxing, enveloping lighting moods that have a positive influence on physical well-being. The designers are also inspired by the circadian rhythm and emphasize the importance of dynamic light that adapts in intensity and color nuances to reflect the course of the day. The color palette is inspired by nature. Textile materials delicately filter the light and create weightless volume with an ultra-light material effect. In the case of strong materials such as glass and metal, minimalist design solutions surprise with soft matte surfaces, transparent layering, and reflections inspired by sunlight.

Selected lighting designs and unique pieces of furniture come together in unusual and invigorating combinations. The expressive, creative, and graceful lighting objects and furniture are individual pieces that together create varied, lively scenes. The artistic ideas and skillful execution make the designs unmistakable, whether hand-formed or robot-carved, the designs always straddle the line between craftsmanship and technology. The range is idiosyncratic and diverse, with floral colors ranging from vibrant to soft, accompanied by neutral shades and darkened tones. Inspiring surfaces reflect a variety of techniques. Unconventional material ideas and unique noble waste creations impress. The designers play with vintage associations or experiment with materials: glass, ceramics, and lots of metal—especially brass and copper.

Here, luminaires make a striking statement for material awareness, timeless aesthetics, and durable designs. The classic and innovative design concepts concisely combine decorative aspects with technological sophistication. They show how well-thought-out lighting objects can go beyond mere function and elegantly enhance rooms with versatile, functional, and atmospheric lighting. A striking number of designers are working with proven classics or choosing retro references for their new designs. They are breathing new life into classics, creating reinterpretations of earlier works, or producing new editions and redesigns from the manufacturers' archives. The color palette brings together colors with a striking presence, understated tones, and clear neutrals. Clear shapes and material-focused design draw the eye to strong, proven, and durable materials. Cool, clean metals and marble accompany the timeless style and are constantly being redefined for example, when recycled silver creates a refined lustre.

The trend scouts from the bora.herke.palmisano style agency focus on progressive product developments, materials, colors, inspiring ideas, and circular solutions in international design, which they track down on behalf of Messe Frankfurt at creative hotspots, workshops, artists' studios, and digital hubs. Their analyses and presentations represent the comprehensive process of discovering style-defining designs. During Light + Building, the experts will speak daily at the Design Plaza in Hall 3.1 B50 about important influences in lighting design and provide in-depth background information and design approaches.

All information on the Light + Building 2026 event programme can be found at: 
www.light-building.com/events