Light + Building will present the prestigious IALD International Lighting Design Awards for the first time as part of its 2026 edition in Frankfurt am Main. This new inclusion at the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building-services technology highlights lighting design as a key pillar of the event, emphasizing the combination of aesthetics, technical precision and atmospheric impact in architectural projects.
The IALD International Lighting Design Awards, hosted by the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), recognize projects exemplifying design excellence and visionary lighting solutions. The 43rd edition of the awards will be integrated into Light + Building, which runs from 8 to 13 March 2026. This collaboration elevates the event’s standing among lighting designers, architects and planners worldwide.
Steffen Larbig, Director Brand Management Light + Building, remarked, “Light + Building is the central platform for lighting design in a global context – an inspiring place where creative ideas, technical innovations and visionary concepts come together. With the IALD International Lighting Design Awards being presented in Frankfurt for the first time, the trade fair gains a new dimension of visibility and becomes even more attractive for the international lighting design community.”
Lighting as the Heart of Innovation
Light + Building’s comprehensive lighting sector features a global array of manufacturers showcasing both interior and exterior lighting concepts. From minimalist smart solutions to innovative effects, the fair offers a broad spectrum of lighting design that marries visual, technical and atmospheric qualities.
The event’s program includes a variety of high-level activities such as lectures, presentations and interactive talks hosted at the Design Plaza. Guided tours offer visitors focused insights into the latest trends and help navigate the diverse lighting innovations on display.
IALD: A Global Authority in Lighting Design
The International Association of Lighting Designers has been a leading advocate for architectural lighting design for over five decades. Its annual International Lighting Design Awards, established in 1983, are considered the pinnacle of achievement in the field.
The 42nd edition of the awards is scheduled for 7 May 2025 at Lightfair Las Vegas, part of the global Light + Building network spanning 14 trade fairs across five continents. This network facilitates access to key growth markets in lighting and building services technology.
Light + Building 2026: A Global Industry Hub
The upcoming Light + Building will take place from 8 to 13 March 2026 in Frankfurt, gathering manufacturers, planners, architects, designers and investors. It provides a unique platform to exchange ideas on lighting, electrical engineering, building automation and security technologies.
Companies that confirm participation by 30 April 2025 benefit from attractive early booking conditions. The event promises to continue its role as the international meeting place for professionals shaping the future of electrification and lighting design.
