Trends and advancements in the lighting sector in 2025 and beyond

By Ayça Donaghy, CEO of The Lighting Industry Association (The LIA)

As we look back over 2024 and anticipate what new trends will emerge over the coming year, there are advances at the forefront that we expect to see develop.

Firstly, Stewart Langdown, Director of Business Development at Zencontrol, Chair of The LIA’s Marketing Committee, Active Member of other LIA committees, and Fellow of CIBSE the Society of Light and Lighting FSLL, states, “As IoT-enabled lighting systems evolve, they are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Sensors now adapt to daylight, occupancy, and weather conditions, and to further enhance indoor environments, these systems are increasingly integrated with air quality monitoring solutions.”

Secondly, Dan Griffiths, our Technical Operations Manager predicts that as Augmented Reality (AR) in lighting design becomes more commonplace, AR tools will revolutionise lighting design by enabling designers and consumers to visualise lighting solutions in real-world settings. This will provide a deeper understanding of how light interacts with materials, textures, and the overall space. As this technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications within lighting design. From virtual showrooms to interactive lighting installations, AR is set to transform the way we perceive and interact with light.

As environmental concerns escalate, the demand for sustainable lighting solutions is on the rise. Stuart Burns, Senior Sustainability and Technical Policy Manager at The LIA identified manufacturers are responding by prioritising recyclable materials, modular designs, and eco-friendly production methods. With Europe driving sustainable legislation, understanding Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) will become increasingly crucial for businesse

Finally, the future of lighting design lies in human centricity. By mimicking natural sunlight and adjusting to circadian rhythms, we can create spaces that support optimum health and wellbeing. As society becomes more aware of neurodiversity, lighting design will play a crucial role in creating inclusive environments that cater to diverse needs. By offering customisable colour and light levels, we can empower individuals to tailor their lighting experiences to their specific needs and preferences.