Technology-Driven Design Takes Center Stage at CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025
At CEDIA Expo/CIX, architects and designers can explore how connected systems are reshaping form, function, and experience
Alpharetta, Georgia, July 23 2025 — As technology becomes a core design material—just as essential as wood, stone, or fabric—CEDIA Expo/Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX) returns to Denver, 4-6 September, with a robust lineup of exhibitors to offer architects and interior designers an immersive view into the future of the built environment.
This year’s show highlights how connected systems, once confined to utility rooms and server closets, are now central to discussions about aesthetics, wellness, and spatial experience.
In an earlier post, Jason McGraw, Group Vice President and Show Director of CEDIA Expo/CIX, discussed industry-wide trends in commercial lighting and their implications for integrators. Here, he shares some of the key themes that are shaping this year’s event.
“Design today is about more than finishes — it’s about how spaces think, feel, and respond,” says McGraw. “CEDIA Expo/CIX brings together the technology and design communities to create better environments—and new opportunities for collaboration.”
8K: The Canvas of the Future
8K technology is now redefining the visual possibilities of space. At this year’s show, designers can explore ultra-high-resolution displays that double as digital art walls, interactive backdrops, and immersive signage from companies such as Digital Production, Sony, and Samsung. Perfect for both residential and commercial projects, these razor-sharp displays represent the forefront of technology-driven design, offering maximum impact with minimal hardware, marrying cutting-edge performance with architectural subtlety.
Lighting That Shapes Atmosphere and Well-Being
Lighting has evolved into one of the most expressive tools in design. From smart fixtures to human-centric lighting, expect to discover solutions that enhance comfort, mood, and productivity across living rooms, lobbies, and lounges from exhibitors like Klus and Lucetta. Paired with smart shading systems that respond dynamically to daylight, these tools are unlocking new levels of control, sustainability, and sensory experience.
Smarter Outdoor Design
Outdoor spaces are no longer secondary. They are fully integrated lifestyle zones.
Whether it’s a private terrace, hospitality patio, or commercial rooftop, designers will find outdoor-rated AV systems, landscape lighting, and even networked kitchen appliances that transform residential and commercial spaces into immersive lifestyle zones. Top-of-the-line brands, such as Neptune TV and Sol-Lux, will showcase industry-defining outdoor technology solutions this September.
The Garage, Reimagined
Once overlooked, the garage now reflects the versatility of technology-driven design, supporting everything from fitness to focused work. The garage is being transformed into a highly functional space—part studio, part gym, part tech-enabled hub. This year’s CEDIA Expo/CIX will feature solutions that connect the garage to the rest of the building from companies like Lutron, Graber, and Airzone. Learn how this space is transforming into a hub for creativity, wellness, and productivity, with technology that enables adaptive use.
Sound as an Architectural Element
Invisible speakers, immersive multichannel audio, and aesthetically pleasing controls are transforming our understanding of acoustics, not just in media rooms, but also in spas, showrooms, and wellness environments. Discover how sound can subtly yet significantly influence mood, identity, and engagement through interactive demonstrations in sound rooms on the show floor or in dedicated demo areas from brands such as Yamaha, Harman, and L-Acoustics.
Security That Disappears into Design
Discover elegant and unobtrusive security systems that seamlessly integrate into luxury interiors, offered by leading manufacturers in the industry, including Allegion, HoloVision, and Ring. These systems offer seamless access control, intelligent surveillance, and automated triggers, ensuring peace of mind while preserving the aesthetic integrity of your space.
The Future Is Here
“Whether you’re specifying a penthouse residence, a boutique hotel, or a flexible workplace,” McGraw adds, “this is the place to discover what’s next — and how to implement it into your next project.”
At CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025, visitors will discover the latest innovations, interact with leading smart home brands, and gain insider access to the tools, trends, and connections that matter most to the design and build community. The curated education track within the CEDIA Education Conference features sessions specifically designed for designers, architects, and builders, aimed at accelerating knowledge in the most critical and rapidly evolving areas of the smart home technology industry.
A can’t-miss highlight will be the exclusive CEDIA Town Hall, where CEDIA Global President & CEO Daryl Friedman and NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy will debut brand-new joint research exploring the evolving collaboration between the smart home and design-build sectors. Attendees will be among the first to gain access to this groundbreaking report, which unpacks what designers and builders need from their smart home technology partners, how early collaboration boosts results, and where kitchen and bath technology is headed next.
VIP networking opportunities also abound, designed to spark new partnerships and deepen cross-industry collaboration. With more than 350 exhibiting brands, curated design tours, and CEU-accredited education, CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025 offers unparalleled access to the materials, methods, and minds driving innovation in the built environment.
Learn more and register for CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025.
About Emerald
Emerald Holding, Inc. is the largest U.S.-based B2B event organizer, empowering businesses year-round by expanding meaningful connections, developing influential content, and delivering powerful commerce-driven solutions. As the owner and operator of a curated portfolio of B2B events spanning trade shows, conferences, B2C showcases and a scaled hosted buyer platform, Emerald also delivers dynamic solutions across leading industries through its robust content and e-commerce marketplace. Emerald is a trusted partner for its thousands of customers, predominantly small and medium-sized businesses, playing a pivotal role in driving ongoing commerce through streamlined buying, selling, and networking opportunities. Powered by an experienced team, Emerald is fostering impactful engagement and delivering unparalleled market access with a commitment to driving business growth 365 days a year. For more information, please visit: www.emeraldx.com.