Heimtextil 2026 will showcase how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the global textile industry, from design and production to retail, pricing, distribution, and communication. The leading international trade fair takes place from 13 to 16 January 2026 in Frankfurt, offering a comprehensive programme dedicated to AI's practical applications for design, interiors, architecture, retail, and contract furnishing.
© Heimtextil
AI is reshaping creative processes and workflows along the entire textile value chain. Heimtextil 2026 aims to make these developments tangible, demonstrating how AI accelerates design concepts, material visualisations, data integration, and the implementation of new products and concepts.
The central knowledge hub is the Texpertise Stage in Hall 6.0, where a forward-looking, business-relevant content programme will provide practical insights. Highlights include a live talk with London-based architect and AI pioneer Tim Fu, who will discuss interior design in the age of AI with Architonic Editor-in-Chief Simon Keane-Cowell. Other sessions feature Anja Bisgaard Gaede (Spott trends & business aps) on workflows and data integration, Elisabeth Ramm (Atelier Brückner) on AI in exhibition materials, and Martin Auerbach (Association of German Home Textiles Manufacturers) on integrating AI profitably into everyday workflows.
The Heimtextil Trends 26/27, presented by Alcova in the Trend Arena (Hall 6.1), explore the interplay of AI-driven processes with traditional textile craftsmanship under the motto "Craft is a verb." The trend presentation features six stylistic directions with vibrant colour palettes, digital "glitches," and synthetic accents that complement natural materials. Daily talks and guided tours translate these concepts into concrete business insights.
Visitors can also experience Patricia Urquiola's "among-all" installation (Hall 3.0), which combines futuristic textiles, sustainable materials, and AI technologies to showcase textiles as transformative and intelligent materials. A live talk with Urquiola on 14 January will discuss her visionary approach.
Heimtextil further offers a specialised programme for interior design, architecture, hospitality, and contract business, including lectures from Mauro Brigham (ncbham), Helen Häkli (bdia), Corinna Kretschmar-Joehnk (JOI-Design), and Robin Hepp (Kids Studio). AI-supported interior design, from room concepts to social media content and quotation optimisation, is explored by Alexander Ligowski at the DecoTeam Stage (Hall 3.0).
A new New Talents Area in Hall 6.1 highlights emerging designers engaging with AI, providing a platform for international exchange and fresh perspectives on design innovation.
Heimtextil 2026 runs from 13 to 16 January 2026.
More information:
Heimtextil
Magdalena Gredel
[email protected]
www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com
