TREND REPORT
Every two years, the ISH trade fair in Frankfurt showcases the latest trends in bathroom design and technology development based on water, heat and air. This year’s theme was “Solutions for a sustainable future”. But how well was this fulfilled in bathrooms and HVAC?
ISH 2025 is not only a technology fair but also an ideas laboratory to inspire sustainability. The “Value of Water Conference” on sustainable water management and the “Building Future Conference” on construction industry trends, including green roofs and renewable energy, are being held in parallel with the fair.
At first glance, plants, untreated wood and “every drop counts” quotes are visible, but when you look closer, little real progress has been made. Many stands have the same content as two years ago, although several highlight lead-free products and improved surface treatments. The pandemic, war and economic challenges may have slowed progress.
Here we summarize the impressions from this year’s exhibition halls with a focus on plumbing and bathrooms:
1. Increased focus on recycled materials
Stainless steel, ceramics, glass, stone and certified wood are visible in many stands. Water-saving technology in sink mixers is demonstrated, but at the same time large overhead showers are shown. We can choose more sustainable materials, but do not want to give up the waterfall shower, underfloor heating or the spacious bathtub.
2. Reduced water use creates new problems
Low-flush faucets and toilets have been shown to cause sewage problems if the flow becomes too low. Especially in smaller pipe dimensions that are often used on the continent, compared to those we have in the Nordic countries. This has led to innovations such as pipe fittings with vortices to increase the flow force. But do they work in practice?
3. Accessibility requirements affect design
More people are getting older today. At ISH 2025, this is evident in more seamless floors in shower areas, height-adjustable sinks and touchless taps. Smart installations such as sensor-controlled lighting and mirrors with medication reminders increase safety and quality of life. Innovations that also reduce the burden on elderly and healthcare system when more people can stay at home longer. Accessibility can also be beneficial for families with young children, with adjustable components and furnishings designed for future adaptation.
4. Embracing colour and shape
An uncertain outside world also characterizes the colour palette of 2025, which remains calm and harmonious. Warm burnt pink or soft pastel green tones are seen in many bathroom furnishings and are also offered on some accessories. The bold ones add accents in cobalt blue or ochre yellow. Lots of wood, with a move towards darker tones. For metal surfaces, the choice usually ends up in timeless stainless steel or chrome, although black, brass and bronze remain as options. Mirrors and washbasins continue to dominate in round shapes.
Summary
Comfort, function and quality of life often win out over sustainability. But sustainability is not just about materials and technology, but also about making wise investments from a life cycle perspective. Our conclusion is that this is where sustainability actually wins. Tomorrow’s bathroom customers want to invest in quality bathrooms that will last a long time and remain stylish even in ten to fifteen years. No one wants to renovate their bathroom after five years when they regret their bold tile choice or when the surface coating on a too-cheap faucet or floor drain gully grating has started to peel off.
Did you know this about ISH?
🏛️ First time: 1960
🌍 International meeting place: Over 2,100 exhibitors from 55 countries
📏 Exhibition area: More than 250,000 m²
👥 Number of visitors: Around 150,000 trade visitors