The German trade show unveils two collaborations focusing on research and design 

Heimtextil 2025 continues the German trade fair’s commitment to be a laboratory for innovation and creative dialogue in the textile industry. With Patricia Urquiola and Alcova at the helm of its key presentations, this year’s event helps visitors understand textiles as vessels of culture and design solutions.

At the heart of this year’s fair lies an understanding that research is not just support for design—it’s a fundamental driver of progress. Patricia Urquiola’s “among-us” installation embodies this philosophy, merging hands-on exploration with a commitment to sustainability. Collaborating with brands like Aquafil, Cimento, Kettal, Kvadrat, Moroso, Parà Tempotest and cc-tapis, Urquiola has crafted an environment where textiles become a tridimensional experience, focusing on application for the retail and hospitality industries. 

The installation in Hall 12.0 serves as a retreat, a place to reflect and imagine; it’s almost like a sanctuary to observe and touch materials. Visitors can expect an interactive journey into how research informs material choices, production methods and even emotional connections to design. “The name ‘among us’ conveys a sense of conviviality and shared experiences,” Urquiola explains.

Meanwhile, Alcova transforms Hall 3.0 into the Trend Arena, which originates from their “Future Continuous”  trend book. Alcova’s vision offers predictions and provocations, inviting the industry to rethink its relationship with textiles as cultural artifacts and tools for addressing global challenges.

Alcova bridges historical patterns with contemporary innovations in aesthetic and production processes through a curated color palette and thematic explorations. Their work highlights how textiles can address urgent issues such as climate change, resource scarcity and cultural preservation. By placing these challenges at the forefront, Alcova demonstrates that the textile industry is responsible for shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.

Both presentations emphasize that textiles are more than commodities—they are canvases for ideas, experimentation and storytelling. As visitors wander through Heimtextil 2025, they will witness the convergence of science, art and craftsmanship, reminding us that the future of textiles lies in the constant interplay of these forces.