Once only considered a functional component, today, ventilation panels have become a key part of the domain of interior design and architecture. In addition to ensuring effective ventilation, these grilles are now aesthetic accessories that contribute to the harmony and style of any space, and are chosen with great intention to match and enhance the atmosphere of a room.
The new role that ventilation grids and panels play in interiors offers retailers the unique opportunity to provide products that combine functionality and design, meeting the needs of a market increasingly attentive to both air quality and the aesthetics of spaces.
Read on to discover everything retailers need to know about this growing market, and discover the best options to add to your inventory for more sales in 2025!
Table of Contents
Ventilation panels: Function and market
Market data
Design trends for vent grilles
Innovative materials
Colors and finishes
Patterns
Technological integration
Final thoughts
Ventilation panels: Function and market
Ventilation grilles facilitate air passage between interior and exterior spaces or between different building areas. Placed on walls, ceilings, or floors, these devices allow efficient air circulation, helping to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment in homes, offices, and other constructions. This type of vent cover is particularly important in closed spaces where continuous natural ventilation is impossible: they connect the room with the ventilation duct or open areas.
The primary function of vent panels is to allow proper air exchange and, as a result, limit mold formation, condensation, and unpleasant odors, while improving indoor air quality. These grilles are crucial in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, as they help to distribute treated air evenly throughout the rooms and contribute to greater living comfort.
Another important aspect is safety: many ventilation panels come with filters and systems that prevent the entry of insects or small animals without compromising airflow. Some models are also designed to be fire-resistant, increasing the level of protection in an emergency.
Market data
The renewed interest in vent covers shows in the data. According to a recent report by Market Research Future, the sector was valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2024, and it is growing steadily at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% to reach USD 2.1 billion by 2033.
This growth is primarily fueled by increased awareness of indoor air quality’s importance, urbanization, and more and more stringent building regulations.
Design trends for vent grilles
As mentioned, in recent years, ventilation grilles have become a key feature in interior design, driven by the increasing number of consumers installing ventilation, conditioning, and heating systems in their homes.
In order to meet the increasing demand, manufacturers and vent cover suppliers are introducing new models and solutions that combine technical functionality and aesthetics, resulting in decorative AC vents that integrate seamlessly into any bathroom, kitchen, living room, and any other room in a home.
Innovative materials
Gone are the times when people used to buy standard covers made of plastic or generic metal. The materials used to produce ventilation panels have become increasingly diverse and high-performance. Stainless steel, for example, is highly prized in minimalist interiors for its corrosion resistance, which is why it is often used in humid environments. Anodized aluminum is another popular choice: it is a lightweight material, available in numerous finishes and easily adaptable to modern, bohemian, and classic settings.
ABS plastic screw-in covers are now left as primarily used for budget reasons. Wooden solutions are also available and designed for natural or rustic environments, where every detail of their wood contributes to a sense of warmth and welcome. Besides offering a pleasing aesthetic, wood is often chosen for applications in exposed spaces where the grille becomes an integral part of the décor.
Last but not least, bronze and iron ventilation panels are resistant to heat and come with beautiful, intricate décor options.
Colors and finishes
The color palette of grilles available on the market has expanded to meet customers’ expectations and specific needs.
Metallic finishes, such as gold, copper, or bronze, are also increasingly popular, lending a touch of elegance and refinement to even the most technically demanding environments. In modern commercial or residential settings, it’s not uncommon to see grilles in matte black, shiny silver, or glossy finishes, chosen to complement other architectural elements such as door frames, handles, or window frames in industrial décor styles.
Oak veneer covered with resin, maple veneer, and cherry veneer are in high demand for Scandinavian interiors.
Patterns
Surface design is one of the most innovative aspects of modern air vents. Traditional grilles with parallel slots are giving way to more sophisticated options with geometric patterns, such as diamonds, circles, or hexagonal patterns, for example. Floral, arabesque, or perforated designs inspired by artisanal decoration are preferred in more classic settings.
Some manufacturers offer customizable magnetic covers that can be changed based on the mood or the style, or even a decorative vent cover that can be placed in the corner or on irregular walls and ceilings.
Technological integration
With the growing popularity of smart homes, ventilation panels are evolving. Some models are equipped with smart sensors capable of monitoring humidity or air quality, activating ventilation systems based on collected data. This type of technology optimizes the energy efficiency of buildings and improves living comfort.
Some vent grilles aesthetically integrate with concealed systems or continuous surfaces, becoming invisible while maintaining their function.
Final thoughts
For retailers and distributors today, ventilation panels represent much more than a technical component; they are products that many consumers and professionals seek out based on their ability to complement the aesthetic of a space.
Offering solutions beyond mere functionality allows stores to attract a broader customer base, consisting not only of installers and designers but also end customers and interior designers.
