The Oregon chapter hosted a dynamic night of learning, networking, and industry insight at the Student Trade Show & Designer Panel.
The NKBA Columbia River Chapter brought the region’s design community together for an energizing evening of education and connection at the Student Trade Show & Designer Panel, held on Thursday, November 13, at BASCO Appliances in Lake Oswego, Oregon. The event gathered an enthusiastic mix of students, emerging professionals, seasoned designers, contractors, fabricators, and vendor partners—creating a collaborative environment where real-world experience met fresh, forward-thinking curiosity.
Attendees had the opportunity to explore materials, gain career insights, and engage with professionals across the interiors and construction ecosystem. With beautifully curated vendor displays, hands-on product learning, and an engaging panel discussion, the evening delivered meaningful value for every stage of the design journey.
Event Highlights
A Vibrant Vendor Showcase
Participants connected directly with leading suppliers and manufacturers, receiving insight into new products, innovations, materials, and installation requirements. Vendors shared not only technical details but also practical guidance—helping students understand how each product fits into real project workflows.
A Panel Driven by Real Experience
Moderated by Robin Rigby Fisher, CMKBD, CLIPPS, CAPS, NKBA’s Educator of the Year 2025 and Chair of Portland Community College’s Interior Design Department, the discussion brought together:
- Alan Pierce, Revive Works Remodeling
- Amy Hayes, Amy Hayes Interior Design
- Deanna Skirving, A-Tech Granite & Marble & Devine Cabinet Design
Panelists openly discussed the complexities of design practice, including the designer–contractor relationship, avoiding common on-site mistakes, managing subcontracted changes, navigating client expectations, and communicating professionally—even when saying “no” to a selection.
Their insights blended technical expertise with business wisdom, offering students and emerging designers practical takeaways they can apply immediately.
Key Topics Explored
Designing for Real Clients
- Fitting products to lifestyle and budget
- Encouraging clients to be more design-forward
- Steering clients away from inappropriate or high-risk selections
- Discussing long-term maintenance, durability, and future issues
Specifying with Confidence
Vendors and panelists also guided students using a detailed reference sheet—Questions to Ask When Specifying a Product—encouraging deeper thinking about:
- Suitability for location and application
- Required substrates, setting materials, and installation needs
- Lead times, freight costs, and total job pricing
- After-installation maintenance requirements
- Critical trade-specific considerations for stone, carpet, glass, lighting, plumbing, and hardware
- How different components interact (e.g., faucet heights, integrated lighting, cabinetry clearance, stone overhang support)
These discussions helped students understand the whole ecosystem behind product selection—beyond aesthetics and into the realities of construction, logistics, and long-term performance.
A Community-Centered Experience
The evening underscored the value of mentorship and knowledge sharing within the industry. Students asked thoughtful questions, vendors provided candid insights, and panelists offered advice rooted in real-world challenges and successes.
This collaborative environment cultivated growth, creativity, and confidence—reinforcing the NKBA Columbia River Chapter’s commitment to advancing the next generation of design professionals.
Acknowledgments
This event would not have been possible without the hard work and leadership of incoming Programs Chair, Suzanne Rickard. The chapter also extends its gratitude to:
- BASCO Appliances – Event Host
- Bosch – Food & Beverage Sponsor
Participating Vendors
- Z Collection
- DT Glass
- Cambria
- Stone-Drew / Ashe & Jones
- Intrepid Marble & Granite
- Pratt + Larson
- MSI
- Keller Kitchen & Bath
- Sherwin-Williams
Thanks to their collaboration, the Student Trade Show & Designer Panel delivered a powerful blend of education, inspiration, and community engagement.
