BEST OF BAU 2025

From groundbreaking materials to robotics that made sci-fi look outdated, BAU 2025 had it all. With Schueco leading the charge, the event became the ultimate playground for global and Indian architects, where innovation met collaboration, and the future of design was written in real time

- Ankita Rathod

MUNICH, Germany — Braving the icy chill of minus-6 degrees, architects and designers from across the globe converged at the sprawling Messe München for BAU 2025, the renowned international trade fair for architecture, building materials, and construction, held from January 13 to 17,

2025. With over 2,000 exhibitors representing 45 countries, this flagship event transcended the traditional trade fair format—it served as a vibrant manifesto for the future of architecture and design.

As BAU 2025 unfolded, themes of sustainability, digitalisation, and modular construction resonated through its expansive halls, while the Indian delegation brought a dynamic energy, seamlessly blending expertise with a spirit of exploration. For the architects in attendance, the fair was more than just a platform to explore cutting-edge technologies— it was a hub of global collaboration and inspiration. Yet, the event’s sheer magnitude could be overwhelming, presenting a marathon of ideas and innovations that demanded both curiosity and endurance.

One such trailblazer was Ahmedabad-based Samarth Maradia, who, with his designer wife by his side, moved through the expansive fairgrounds with practiced ease. Armed with the BAU website folder on his phone and a meticulously planned itinerary, Maradia navigated the event like a seasoned pro, even sharing insider tips on using Munich’s public transport free of cost. His efficiency was matched by his curiosity, setting the tone for what lay ahead.