Taking place in Las Vegas, the recent NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) 2025 was the biggest event in 17 years. Buzzing with energy, the show boasted new products, inspiring education sessions, live demos, networking events and much more.

Organised by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), more than 80,000 builders, renovators, developers and home building professionals attended. The scale of the event is phenomenal, with over 65,000 square metres of exhibitors and more than 500 events and education sessions over three days.

Centre stage

Fiona Nield, HIA’s Chief Executive – Business Services, explored the show, saying: It was amazing seeing the latest cutting-edge products, as well as current trends in building, materials and technology.

‘It was also great to catch up with HIA members at the show, including those exhibiting. Many of our members were checking the trends, so they’re ahead of the game for the year ahead.’

This year’s show provided an abundance of up-to-the-minute products for home builders, as well as energy-efficient breakthroughs and smart-home advances.

One of the halls was abuzz with demonstrations of smart-home technologies. This displayed the seamless integration of modern conveniences into everyday living.

The push for net-zero energy homes was a hot topic for visitors in this industry. Popular discussions were about solar advances, insulation products, and energy systems.

‘When it comes to electrification of homes, efficient load management helps optimise power supply and prevents grid overloads,’ says Fiona. ‘A huge number of products are catering to this market.’

Fiona noted that a range of electric fireplace brands stood out as they incorporated realistic holographic flames that can be adjusted by style, colour, height and lighting by remote or voice command. This innovation appealed to building firms looking for a futuristic element.

More to learn

During the IBS, educational sessions ranged from consumer trends and economic analysis to building techniques, business skills, project management, contract management, technology and more.

Another highlight was the 2025 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, displaying sleek kitchen appliances and luxurious bathroom fixtures – all blending functionality with artful design. Almost 700 exhibitors participated, including more than 100 new and 200-plus international exhibitors.

‘Many K&B brands showcased timber finishes complemented by natural-toned materials. This was an almost artisan finish,’ explains Fiona.

‘The scale of the exhibits is phenomenal with so many different products on show.’

Tone it up

On-trend colour schemes were displayed at various halls, appealing to dedicated designers. This included bright, saturated earth-tone hues (such as jade and terracotta) incorporated with warm neutrals. These cool tones go beyond just paint – they were also showcased on various features such as baths, sinks and cabinetry.

Light colour palettes were also popular, providing interiors with a fresh, bright feel. A selection of exhibitors showcased multiple colours between different cabinetry layers, which makes a real statement.

‘Attention to neutral finishes were also evident,’ says Fiona. ‘Exhibitors provided products that helped create calming, natural spaces. That promotes a sense of wellbeing within a home.’

At IBS’s outdoor exhibitions, another highlight was an impressive range of modular and smaller transportable homes. ‘These deliver luxury on a smaller scale, and at an affordable price range,’ says Fiona.

Around the world

Held alongside the NAHB’s IBS was the International Housing Association (IHA) annual meeting. Representing HIA was Fiona, who presented on Australia’s key housing policy issues and regulatory environment.

‘I also presented on the government’s target for new homes,’ she explains. ‘I discussed major factors impacting the sector, such as interest rates, building codes and frequent changes, trade shortages, housing taxes, and home building planning processes.

‘I also explained the work HIA is doing on behalf of our industry and shared some of our advocacy successes. This was a wonderful opportunity to share some of the great work HIA does on behalf of its members,’ she says.

HIA has represented Australia on the IHA for around 30 years. This unique forum brings together housing associations and their representatives from across the globe. Countries such as Japan, US, Canada, England, Israel, Peru, Norway, Ireland and Taiwan were represented at this year’s meeting.

The key topics at this year’s annual meeting included housing policy and affordability, sustainability, trade skills and shortages, and emerging technology in the building industry.

‘HIA’s interest in global housing helps our members be ahead of the game,’ says Fiona. ‘While each country has challenges when meeting a global shortage of housing, there are many parallels and there’s much we can share.’

‘The group shares information with the aim of members implementing approaches and solutions in their own country,’ continues Fiona. ‘This year, we thanked the outgoing Chair of the IHA, Tom Ito, who has done a great job of chairing the Committee and congratulated the incoming Chair for the next two years, Mariana Ribeiro from Brazil.’ 

On the edge of innovation

A tour of the 2025 New American Home was offered to all IBS pass holders. ‘Visiting the home was a highlight,’ says Fiona.

It embodied luxury living while incorporating cutting-edge sustainability features. The contemporary design utilised an open floor plan that promoted seamless indoor-outdoor living.’

The expansive living spaces featured high ceilings with minimalist decor, creating a sense of spaciousness and tranquillity. The outdoor spaces complemented the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. From its sustainable construction to its seamless integration of smart technologies, this home set a new standard for luxury living in the desert.

‘I had the chance to view this first-hand and hear a presentation from the builder. He explained how it was built and talked about the integration of energy-efficiency features and smart-home technology. ‘I particularly liked hearing about the coordinating of the build and how it all came together,’ says Fiona.

Meeting of the minds

‘There are many parallels between NAHB and HIA,’ continues Fiona. ‘We both play a pivotal role in helping our members.

‘Running alongside the show were the meetings of all the NAHB Committees, which is similar to the way HIA runs its committees. Meeting some of the NAHB’s membership and economics teams was definitely a highlight of the trip.’

First published on 12 May 2025.