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IALD At Light + Building 2026

The IALD is bringing a full programme of activities to Light + Building, and there is something for everyone. Join guided Discovery Walks across the show floor with IALD members, take part in lively Discovery Discussions on the topics shaping our industry, and celebrate the very best in lighting design at the 2026 IALD International Awards, taking place in Europe for the first time in over 40 years.

Light + Building is one of the most important dates in the lighting calendar, and the IALD is making the most of it with a multi-day program designed to inform, connect, and inspire.

The IALD has created a complete "survival guide" for L+B attendees that will help navigate and maximize your experience in Frankfurt!

Download the Survival Guide

IALD Activities At a Glance:

Discovery Walks. Each day, IALD members Stephan Horn and Carla Jardim will lead Discovery Walks across the show floor, uncovering standout stands and products across interior, exterior, and decorative lighting, as well as a dedicated controls walk. With brand representatives on hand at each stop, these walks are a great way to stay on top of what is new and ask the questions that matter to you.

Discovery Discussions. These discussions bring members and peers together for short, conversational sessions on the subjects defining our industry right now, from artificial intelligence in lighting design and embedded carbon to education and certification. These are informal by design, so come ready to contribute as well as listen.

The 2026 IALD International Lighting Design Awards. Frankfurt will host the 2026 IALD Awards ceremony will be held at Depot 1899 on Tuesday 10th March 2026. This is a chance to see the projects that have earned the highest recognition in the profession this year, meet some of the designers behind them, and witness a historic moment: for the first time in over 40 years, the awards presentation is taking place in Europe. It is not one to miss! (Limited capacity; tickets available here.) 

When
3/9/2026 - 3/13/2026
Where
Messe Frankfurt FRANKFURT AM MAIN GERMANY
Registration
Sign in or create an account to register

Agenda Items

Sunday, 08 March 2026

Description
When we talk about sustainability in lighting design, we tend to focus on energy in use. But what about the carbon that already exists in the products we specify before a single switch is flipped? Leela Shanker unpacks embedded carbon and life cycle assessment, and what they mean for the decisions designers make every day.
Track
Hall 5.1
Stand C38
Time
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
10:00 AM
Join Stephan Horn, Design IALD, as he explores the latest innovations in interior lighting design, from ambient and task lighting to cutting-edge luminaire technology shaping modern interiors.
Category
Tour
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM

Monday, 09 March 2026

Description
What does the future of lighting education look like? Dwayne Waggoner, Member IALD, leads a thought-provoking discussion on how the next generation of designers can best prepare for an ever-evolving profession.
Track
Hall 5.1
Stand C38
Time
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
10:00 AM
Join Stephan Horn, Design IALD, as he uncovers the newest trends and technologies in exterior lighting, covering façade illumination, urban lighting design, and sustainable outdoor solutions.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM
Join Carla Jardim, Design IALD, as she explores the latest innovations in interior lighting design, from ambient and task lighting to cutting-edge luminaire technology shaping modern interiors.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM

Tuesday, 10 March 2026

Description
Dynamic lighting is redefining the relationship between architecture and experience. Ms. Riddhi Bhootda explores the growing world of architainment and how it is shaping the built environment in exciting new ways.
Track
Hall 5.1
Stand C38
Time
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
10:00 AM
Join Carla Jardim, Design IALD, as she explores the intersection of artistry and function in architectural and decorative lighting, showcasing statement fixtures and design-led luminaires from around the world.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM
Join Stephan Horn, Design IALD, as he dives into the world of dynamic lighting control systems, media architecture, and the smart technologies driving connected, responsive lighting environments.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM

Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Description
AI is everywhere — but what does it actually mean for lighting designers? Flynn Talbot leads an engaging conversation on how artificial intelligence is influencing practices, workflows, and the future of the profession.
Track
Hall 5.1
Stand C38
Time
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
10:00 AM
Join Stephan Horn, Design IALD, as he explores the intersection of artistry and function in architectural and decorative lighting, showcasing statement fixtures and design-led luminaires from around the world.
Category
25
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM
Join Carla Jardim, Design IALD, as she uncovers the newest trends and technologies in exterior lighting, covering façade illumination, urban lighting design, and sustainable outdoor solutions.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM

Thursday, 12 March 2026

Description
Professional credentials speak volumes in a competitive industry. Yah Li Toh, IALD, CLD, dives into the value of CLD credential and what your qualifications signal to clients and peers alike.
Track
Hall 5.1
Stand C38
Time
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
10:00 AM
Join Stephan Horn, Design IALD, as he explores the latest innovations in interior lighting design, from ambient and task lighting to cutting-edge luminaire technology shaping modern interiors.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM

Friday, 13 March 2026

Description
Join Stephan Horn, Design IALD, as he uncovers the newest trends and technologies in exterior lighting, covering façade illumination, urban lighting design, and sustainable outdoor solutions.
Time
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
2:00 PM