AI and Craftsmanship: How Heimtextil Trends 26/27 Inspire the Future of Furniture Design

The design world is going through big changes. As the global furniture and textile industries look ahead to 2026 and 2027, one thing is clear: artificial intelligence (AI) and craftsmanship are no longer worlds apart—they’re teaming up. Heimtextil, the leading international trade fair for textiles and interiors, summed it up perfectly in its Trend Council report: “New Sensitivity – AI and Handcraft Merge.”

This shift isn’t just about adding fancy tech. It’s about embracing a new way of thinking where sustainability, creativity, and digital tools work hand in hand. For furniture buyers, designers, and manufacturers, it opens the door to products that are smarter, greener, and more meaningful.

In this article, we’ll unpack the Heimtextil 26/27 trends, look at how AI and craftsmanship are coming together, and explore what this means for the furniture industry—especially for group buyers. We’ll also highlight how ASKT is already putting these ideas into practice.、

1. The Heart of It All: “New Sensitivity”

The Heimtextil Trend Council chose “New Sensitivity” as the big idea for 26/27. What does that mean? Simply put, people are looking for products that feel authentic, sustainable, and personal.

In home design, this means:

• Bringing back tactile, natural experiences in a digital-first world.

• Choosing eco-friendly materials that respect the environment.

• Using AI tools to boost creativity—not to replace designers but to give them new options.

For furniture buyers, this boils down to finding pieces that feel timeless and trustworthy, while still being fresh and relevant.

2. AI and Craft: Partners, Not Rivals

The most exciting idea in Heimtextil’s outlook is the role of AI. Instead of threatening traditional craft, AI is becoming a helping hand.

What AI can do:

• Come up with fresh patterns, shapes, and textures.

• Speed up the design process by testing ideas virtually.

• Suggest smart, sustainable material combinations.

What humans bring:

• The personal touch that keeps designs authentic.

• The ability to turn digital ideas into something that feels warm and real.

• Cultural and artistic influences that machines can’t replace.

Together, they create products that are both unique and scalable—the best of both worlds.

3. The Four Big Trends of Heimtextil 26/27

The Trend Council broke things down into four clear design directions:

a) Essentials – Keep It Simple

This trend is about minimalism and timelessness. Think:

• Neutral colors

• Durable materials

• Functional, comfortable designs

For buyers, this means products that won’t go out of style overnight—a safe, long-term investment.

b) Playful – Dare to Stand Out

This trend celebrates fun and creativity. Expect:

• Bold colors

• Playful patterns

• Quirky shapes

It’s perfect for younger shoppers and anyone looking to express individuality. AI-generated designs fit right in here, sparking ideas no human alone might think of.

c) Nature Engineered – Green at the Core

This one’s all about eco-innovation. The focus is on:

• Bio-based and recycled materials

• Nature-inspired looks

• Supply chain transparency

For group buyers, this is a must. With policies like the European Green Deal shaping demand, eco-friendly furniture is not just a trend—it’s the future.

d) Neo-Craft – AI Meets Handcraft

Here’s where the magic happens. Neo-Craft shows what’s possible when AI and artisans work side by side:

• AI suggests new patterns and color palettes

• Craftspeople bring them to life with skill and care

The result? Furniture that’s modern yet soulful—digital innovation with a human heart.

4. Sustainability: No Longer Optional

Heimtextil makes it clear: sustainability is the baseline now. It’s about:

• Durability: Products made to last

• Recyclability: Materials that can be reused

• Certifications: Like OEKO-TEX® for fabrics, proving safety and responsibility

For buyers, going green isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good business. It cuts compliance costs, improves efficiency, and builds consumer trust.

5. What This Means for Furniture Buyers

If you’re in the furniture business, here’s the takeaway:

• Stay flexible. Modular and customizable designs give you options and reduce risk.

• Use tech wisely. AI should add value, not replace creativity.

• Plan for green policies. Eco-friendly packaging and production are essential for Europe and beyond.

• Think emotionally. Products should tell a story, not just fill a room.

6. The ASKT Connection: AI in Dining Chair Design

This vision ties directly into ASKT’s philosophy. The company is already walking the talk when it comes to sustainability, innovation, and thoughtful design:

• Zero-plastic packaging using honeycomb and paper-based alternatives

• Eco-certified fabrics that are pet-friendly, kid-safe, and sometimes made from recycled plastic bottles

• KINEXA™ modular seating system offering 30 mix-and-match combinations

• BSCI-certified factories ensuring safe, fair working conditions

Most importantly, ASKT’s design and R&D team is using AI to push dining chair design forward. Instead of seeing AI as a gimmick, they use it as a creative partner:

• Adding European cultural motifs to backrests and armrests, giving chairs a timeless cultural touch

• Designing fresh, imaginative fabric patterns that feel modern but also cozy and approachable

• Testing manufacturing techniques with AI simulations to improve both comfort and durability

The result? Dining chairs that don’t just look good in a showroom—they carry a story, a touch of heritage, and a modern twist. It’s the perfect example of what Heimtextil calls the blend of AI and craftsmanship.

Wrapping It Up

The Heimtextil Trends 26/27 report sends a clear signal: the future of design is teamwork. AI isn’t here to take over—it’s here to help. And when it joins forces with skilled makers, the result is something special: furniture that’s smart, sustainable, and full of character.

For group buyers, that’s great news. It means you can bring products to market that are not only stylish and durable but also aligned with global shifts in culture, technology, and sustainability.

And as ASKT shows, the future is already here. When AI and craftsmanship merge, we don’t just get furniture—we get stories, experiences, and homes that feel truly alive.