Last month the team from Benedict + Riva visited the BAU 2023 in Munich, which took place on-site at the Messe Munich after a four-year break

The world's leading trade fair for architecture, materials and systems is a meeting place for international architects, planners, craftsmen, engineers, and many skilled specialists. The fair attracts more than 190,000 visitors and provides the opportunity not only to get to know the latest innovations and products from the industry, but also is a platform to exchange ideas internationally and make new contacts.

This year, the 19 halls at the exhibition center have been organized around four themes: "The Challenge of Climate Change", "The Future of Living", "Digital Transformation" and "Resources & Recycling". After all, like so many areas that intersect our everyday lives, the construction industry is struggling with the effects of climate change, resource scarcity and material shortages that require long-term solutions.  Similarly, innovative ideas are needed to curb the energy footprint, as the sector has above-average resource consumption and produces a lot of waste compared to other industrial sectors.

These topics found their way into exciting panel discussions by experts, as well as students, who addressed these issues from an architectural perspective and presented new possibilities for sustainable living. Exhibitors also demonstrated innovative products, such as windows with increased thermal insulation and building materials that can become part of the circular economy, ensuring less waste. After a first tour of the fair, it became clear that the future of housing is marked by large panoramic glazing, which also impressive due to its wavy design. Furthermore, it was possible to identify core trends of designs for front doors that are key-free. In the future, according to this vision, we will open our house by fingerprint and forgetting the key will no longer be a problem.

Inspiration for facade construction

The fair also offered many new and interesting clues for facade construction. In this context, Jakob Stenzel, Head of Engineering, was particularly fascinated by the diverse further developments in this area: "Above all, the path towards a more ecological approach, e.g. green facade/wood facade, is incredibly important and appropriate. Basically, I was able to meet many old and new acquaintances and further expand my personal contacts. For my daily work, I take with me that the topic of sustainability is omnipresent and should be addressed even more precisely in the initial phase of a project.

Concluding our visit to BAU 2023, King Hong Ho, Head of Architecture, says: "BAU is a paradise for architects. Inspiring concepts, innovative technologies, expert advice, networking and exchange of experiences, our visit was an unforgettable experience full of creativity."