By Dianne M. Pogoda
Company News
Samsung’s fridge art: Samsung introduced its Bespoke line a couple of years ago, allowing homeowners to customize the refrigerators by using interchangeable panels with different colors and finishes. Its latest version, MyBespoke, allows consumers to upload their own images, photography or artwork to create custom panels, and also offers prints by artist Matt Jacobson to use. More info at Samsung here.
DXV partners with Siriano: Fashion designer Christian Siriano revealed his collaboration with luxury kitchen and bath brand DXV, part of the LIXIL portfolio, for a limited-edition collection of luxe bathrobes and hand towels. Siriano unveiled the collection, his first foray into home goods, during New York Fashion Week in February. He was inspired by his own home renovation in Easton, CT, in which he installed DXV’s Belshire Collection. The towels and robes reflect the fixtures with golden trim and unique fabric detailing, evoking the opulence of the 1920s Golden Era. Learn more here.
People News
Henkes returns to SieMatic: Hans Henkes, a longtime leader in the kitchen and bath manufacturing space, has rejoined SieMatic North America as president and CEO. Henkes previously helmed the premium kitchen cabinetry manufacturer from 2008 to 2017, driving the company to record sales growth. SieMatic, based in Germany, markets four style collections — PURE, URBAN, CLASSIC and MONDIAL — in more than 60 countries. More info here.
NARI CEO Departs: After just seven months, Christine Melendes has stepped down as CEO of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. NARI has experienced some turbulence in the past few years, with management changes and several of its local chapters breaking off from the national organization. Melendes, who joined last July, is the association’s third CEO in less than five years. Chief Operating Officer Elsie Iturralde will serve as interim CEO while NARI conducts a search for a successor. More about NARI here.
Industry News
KCMA continues green efforts: After announcing a partnership with Climate Positive NOWTM last month, the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) has implemented a plan to assure kitchen and bath showrooms that their lines are environmentally responsible. Through a rigorous testing process, the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) certifies that KCMA members are compliant with air quality and pollution prevention through documented energy conservation programs. At least 80 percent of materials used in KCMA’s cabinets are sustainably sourced and certified through a recognized sustainable forestry program, and that waste is minimized via comprehensive recycling and processing programs. For more information, go here.
Architectural Digest on KBIS: From graphite nickel finishes to color in the kitchen to expansive appliance walls, Architectural Digest weighs in on six key kitchen trends gleaned from KBIS. Read more at AD Pro.
Trade Events
Coverings set for Orlando: The Coverings 2023 tile and stone surfaces trade show will take place April 18-21 at the Orange County Convention Center, North and South Halls, in Orlando, FL. Nearly 1,000 tile and stone exhibitors from more than 35 countries exhibit, and the show offers CEU-qualified educational sessions. Registration for the show and educational sessions is free. Click here for more info.
ICFF Slated for May: The International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF), is ramping up for its May 21-23 show at the Javits Center in New York, presenting modern furnishings and products for residential, office and hospitality design. The show is taking place concurrently with WantedDesign Manhattan, which features a focus on emerging design. Both expos are organized by Emerald. More info and registration here.
New Tech Show: Clarity AV International, organizer of the Integrator Network and Technology & Business Summits that CEDIA acquired in 2018, will host a consumer event in Southern California this fall. The Home Tech Expo will take place Oct. 20-21 and will showcase real-world home technology in an in-person format. Consumers will be able to see, touch and experience technology like traditional, custom integration “AV,” as well as lighting, smart appliances, electric vehicles, and more firsthand. KBB has the story.
Chapter News
Hello, Columbus: The Central Ohio Chapter is hosting a Participatory Dinner Party on March 23, from 5-8 p.m., at The Kitchen, 231 E. Livingston Ave. in Columbus. It’s not a cooking class, but guests will collaborate and prepare a meal guided by staff. NKBA members are $40, non-members are $50, and a portion of all ticket sales is donated to the Mid-Ohio Food Collective. Info and registration here.
