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True’s News, Harvard’s Remodeling Report, High Point’s Agenda, Chapter Updates and More

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Apr 8, 2025 10:19 pm

Member + Industry News
Courtesy of True Residential.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

True Introduces New Columns: Luxury home refrigeration maker True Residential launched four 24-inch column units at KBIS 2025. The new columns are designed for efficient use of space and include a refrigerator, freezer, beverage column, and dual-zone wine column with a 105-bottle capacity. Each column is crafted from 300-series stainless steel inside and out, includes precision temperature control, and environmentally friendly R600a hydrocarbon refrigerant. While compact in size, they offer the same premium features and functions of their larger counterparts and are available in True’s range of colors, finishes and hardware. Learn more here.

Conacher Named to BiKBBI Advisory Board: Mark Conacher has been named Executive Advisor for the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI)’s Strategic Advisory Board. Vancouver-based Conacher is currently Managing Director of Senstec USA, the North American arm of Sestak, a Northern Ireland-based maker of patented non-slip shower trays. BiKBBI is an NKBA Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partner and Senstec is a Global Connect member. BiKBBI is the UK’s only government-sanctioned trade association dedicated to kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom installation, working with professional installers, retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. More details here.

Image courtesy of Bello.

Bello Makes North America Debut: British-based Bello Bathrooms has launched in North America with headquarters in Ontario, CA, east of Los Angeles. The luxury plumbing brand’s newest product in its freestanding tub collection is BellocastTM, a proprietary composite high-performance material that’s up to 30 percent lighter than traditional materials. It has a slip-resistant surface and a hydrophobic coating that repels water, grease, and stains. DPHA has more.

Chapter Updates

Meet Maria in Susquehanna: The Susquehanna Valley Chapter will host a special event featuring Maria Stapperfenne, CMKBD, CLIPP, presenting “Cue…THE CLOSER!” on April 15, 5:30 to 8 pm, at sponsor Kountry Kraft, a Fox Plumbing Showroom, 28 E 28th Division Hwy, Lititz, PA. Maria, a former national president of NKBA, will share her top 10 tips to shorten the sales cycle, enhance communication skills, and master the art of closing deals in this CEU-qualified session. NKBA Members are $25, non-members are $35, and students are $5. Register here.

Florida Chapters at Coverings: The South Florida and Central Florida Chapters, co-hosts of this year’s Coverings Global tile & Stone Experience in Orlando, are offering complimentary show passes to the event April 29 to May 2. NKBA-sponsored activities include a UMI “Caribbean Night” After Party on Tuesday, April 29, a show tour with KBB Person of the Year Alena Capra, CMKBD, on Wednesday, April 30, daily NKBA Member Social Hours from 12 to 1, and more. The Central Florida Chapter is also sponsoring a booth with NKBA and Chapter info, snacks and drinks. Visit coverings.com and register using code NKBACF to claim your complimentary pass, and learn more here.

CMW Field Trip To Kohler: The Chicago Mid West Chapter is organizing an overnight trip to Kohler Co. in Kohler, WI, May 8 and 9. Join the chapter to explore Kohler’s latest innovations and trends in kitchen and bath design. The trip includes round-trip bus transportation, dinner and hotel accommodations on May 8, breakfast, lunch and a tour at Kohler on May 9. Registration closes April 18, and the trip is $500 for NKBA members, $600 for non-members. More info here.

Industry News

Harvard Report: Strength Amid Challenges: In its most recent report, “Improving America’s Housing 2025,” the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies said the U.S. remodeling market surpassed $600 billion in the wake of the pandemic, and despite recent softening, remains 50 percent above pre-pandemic levels. The pandemic fueled unprecedented spending on remodeling and this trend is likely to remain “extraordinarily strong,” thanks to aging housing stock and record high property values. However, challenges including inflation, a shortage of skilled labor, and industry fragmentation could hurt the ability to meet demand. Pro Remodeler has more.

High Point Agenda Set: The High Point Market Authority has revealed its programming and events for its spring market, April 26 to 28, and special pop-up venue, The Point, a daily lounge and eatery operating from April 25 to 29 in High Point, NC. Programming includes guided showroom tours, trend presentations, business strategies, and more. KBB has the details.

New Home Sales Rise: Sales of new single-family homes returned to positive territory in February, as they rose 1.8 percent from January, and were up 5.1 percent from February 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This follows a 10.5 percent slide in January from December. Slightly lower median and average sales prices, as well as a dip in mortgage rates, contributed to the boost. Learn more here.

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The Future of Sustainable Certifications: What Kitchen and Bath Pros Need to Know 

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Apr 7, 2025 10:27 am

2025 Sustainability Month
NKBA | KBIS gives the low down on what’s up with the standards shaping the future.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As sustainability becomes a driving force in home design, professionals in the kitchen and bath industry must stay informed about the key certifications shaping the future. Programs like LEED, WELL, and other sustainability standards are setting benchmarks for environmentally responsible, health-conscious design choices.

By incorporating these principles into design and product selection, professionals can create spaces that are not only stylish and functional but also healthier and more environmentally responsible, driving positive change in sustainable design and providing clients with kitchens and bathrooms that support well-being and environmental stewardship. Let’s take a look:

LEED Certification: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

One of the most recognized sustainability standards, LEED focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-friendly materials. Kitchen and bath professionals can incorporate LEED principles by selecting Energy Star-certified appliances, using low-VOC finishes and adhesives, and integrating water-saving fixtures like low-flow faucets and high-efficiency toilets.

WELL Certification: Prioritizing Human Health and Wellness

Unlike LEED, which emphasizes environmental impact, WELL Certification focuses on health and well-being in built environments. “Health begins at home, because that’s where we spend most of our lives,” says Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO of the International WELL Building Institute. “Kitchens and bathrooms, in particular, offer a powerful opportunity to reimagine the ways in which we nourish ourselves and our families and practice daily self-care.” 

WELL principles include ensuring optimal air and water quality, utilizing non-toxic materials, and enhancing natural and artificial lighting designs to improve well-being. IWBI introduced the WELL for Residential framework in 2024, a globally applicable standard for homes prioritizing well-being. As Hodgdon notes, the framework includes evidence-based strategies across 10 concepts: Air, Water, Nourishment, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Light, Sound, Materials, Mind, and Community.

Other Key Sustainability Certifications

Beyond LEED and WELL, several other certifications guide sustainable kitchen and bath design: WaterSense (EPA), GreenGuard, Cradle to Cradle, and FSC Certification. For kitchen and bath professionals, understanding and applying these sustainability certifications is essential for meeting growing consumer demand, enhancing home efficiency and long-term value, and staying ahead of industry regulations and green building trends.

For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.

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KBB Person of the Year: An Interview with Alena Capra, CMKBD

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Mar 4, 2025 1:49 pm

KBIS 2025
KBB Person of the Year Alena Capra.

By Donna Heiderstadt

Attendees at KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas had many opportunities to spot Alena Capra, CMKBD. The Founder and Principal of Fort Lauderdale-based Alena Capra Designs was the host of the NKBA Design + Industry Awards that kicked off KBIS on Feb. 24, she served as a judge for Best of KBIS, and on Feb. 27 she sat down for a one-on-one interview on NEXTStage as KBB Person of the Year. Through it all, Capra retained her polished, professional demeanor — and her trademark high heels.

Chelsie Butler, Executive Editor of Kitchen & Bath Business (KBB), had 30 minutes to delve into what motivates and inspires Capra as a designer, TV host, and advocate for local charities. Here’s what they talked about in their session on NEXTStage, sponsored by Ferguson Home.

The importance of certification and supporting the design community

Butler kicked things off by noting that Capra has been involved with the NKBA for 21 years and achieved her Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer (CMKBD) certification. “I love to talk about certification,” said Capra. “I know that there’s so much value in knowing that you are designing a safe space for your client.” She also noted that it gives a designer weight in the industry as an expert. “We do panels and we speak as experts, so it’s important to have that designation after your name,” she said.

When Butler pointed out that Capra is also an advocate of supporting other designers with her “So Flo Home Project,” a series that airs on Sundays at 11am on local ABC affiliate WPLG 10 and takes viewers on home tours with area designers and builders. “I think it’s important for designers to keep communication open,” she explained of the show, which has shot 270 episodes over 5.5 years. “It’s not a competition…we boost each other up.”

A love for charity initiatives and trade shows

Asked about one of her other passions — charitable initiatives — Capra acknowledged that they are a big part of her business. “I have a talent that I can share with others,” she said, noting that she regularly works with the Make a Wish Foundation in South Florida and completed six room makeovers during the pandemic. “I love partnering with brands and getting a big team together,” she added.

She said she was particularly proud of a football-field-themed accessible bathroom she designed as a charitable project in partnership with a mosaic artist to “think outside the box” and “do something cool and fun.”

Another passion is being a design ambassador for more than a decade for Coverings, the largest tile and stone trade show in North America, which she said has “really opened my eyes” to the possibilities of working with tile and stone.

She is also a brand ambassador for Robern and Florida spokesperson for Armina Stone and says she loves partnerships and working with friends.

Capra said she also values attending important tradeshows, such as KBIS, High Point, and Marmomac, a marble show in Italy. “It’s important for me to be able to bring new things to the clients we work with,” she explained.

Achieving work/life balance, enjoying free time, and being inspired by travel

Seemingly always on the go, Capra was asked about how she juggles it all. “Work/life is never at a full equilibrium,” she admitted, “so we need to keep adjusting, but I really love what I do — being able to connect with people — and that makes me happy.”

In her free time, Capra revealed that she’s “a big reader” and loves gifting books to friends and family. She also loves to get outside and walk by the beach in Fort Lauderdale.

Capra also spoke about “always being inspired by travel” and having recently visited two hotels in Mexico to appreciate their use of locally made products and a stone quarry in Italy to see the manufacturing process for the very first time. “Nothing prepares you for the grand scale of the mountain, the rock, and the machinery,” she said.

Writing her “By Design” column and a future in product design

Capra has expanded into connecting directly with consumers via her monthly By Design column in Aventura Magazine. “Writing it puts me into a space where I am asking myself, “How can I share this information about fresh new trends?’” she said. “I enjoy coming up with topics and pulling it all together. It’s just as fun to me as designing.”

Asked if she would consider trying product design, Capra said she’s “open to whatever comes my way” and “it’s something many designers aspire to do at some point.”

Looking ahead to 2025

After having accomplished so much in 2024, Capra was asked by Butler what lies ahead in 2025. “I have a lot of things coming up that I can’t share just yet,” she said, “including projects that we are installing now that I can’t wait to see finished.”

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KBIS 2025: Day 1 Global Connect Highlights

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Feb 25, 2025 11:59 pm

KBIS 2025
Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

NKBA Global Connect, the association’s international business development program, opened KBIS 2025 with strong presentations in the Global Connect Lounge and hub, with dynamic programming and brands presenting their stories in the kiosks and pavilions.

At the Global Connect Lounge, the day started with six Brand Spotlights, hosted by Global Connect Advisor LuAnn Nigara.

• AVR, the trade association of the Italian valve and tap manufacturing industry, which accounts for about $10 billion in products annually, is focused on innovation, beautiful design, and sustainability in products and materials as well as manufacturing processes. It is involved in a new initiative to ensure safe drinking water through elimination of lead, chemicals and other impurities with advanced testing and certification.

• Thomas Crapper & Co., a British manufacturer of sinks and toilets. There are subtle differences between the North American and British markets, but Thomas Crapper has adapted its fittings to accommodate North Americas technical specs, like pipe threading. The company is trending toward a more elegant design ethos, with Victorian and Edwardian styling.

• Ellsi, a British manufacturer and distributor of plumbing fittings under three main brands: Top-Fix, which simplifies drain installation for sinks, tubs, and showers, Ellsi faucets, and

• Impromta, a faucet that dispenses near-boiling water. Impromta uses biometric technology as a safety measure to prevent burns. If it doesn’t recognize a fingerprint of an authorized user, the faucet won’t dispense the hot water. This can prevent a child from accidentally activating a flow of boiling water. The technology also can set limits on temperature.

• Grant Westfield, a British manufacturer of laminate wall panels for installation in showers and wet rooms. The award-winning panels are easy to install, and go up in about a fifth of the time it takes to install traditional tile. An precision-engineered interlocking tongue-and-groove system makes installation fast, and the material is durable, easy to maintain, and comes in myriad design styles.

• Hidealoo, a British manufacturer of a unique patented steel mechanism that can hide a wall-mounted toilet in a cabinet or closet. The mechanism was developed by Monty Ravenscroft, an architectural engineer, for his father in palliative care. The system allowed a toilet to be installed in a cabinet in his father’s bedroom, allowing for proper plumbing and hygiene in a small space that swung out of sight when not in use. The product can fit in small spaces and can be an addition to laundry rooms or used in small renovations.

• Falmec, a leading Italianproducer of ventilation hoods and extractor systems, discussed some of its most advanced systems that uses fire-retardant and sound-damping technology borrowed from the automotive industry. The vents come in a range of shapes and sizes, from traditional wall-mounted to down-draft styles and thin shelf designs. They also offer speed control, air-flow control, extracting and recirculating filter systems.

Following the spotlights, Heather Shannon, NKBA SVP of Marketing and Communications, hosted “Building Your Brand in the North American Market.” The panel discussion included PR expert Erik Perez, a principal of Hello PR Group, and Sherry Qualls and Veronika Miller, consultants with M2 Consulting Group, which is an architect of the Global Connect program. The discussion focused on strategies for international brands that want to learn more about positioning and marketing themselves in North America. The main message was to conduct copious research about who your customer is in the U.S. and Canada, where your primary target market is located, determine the story you want your brand to tell, and associate with partners who share your values and represent what your brand stands for. The U.S. is like eight individual countries in terms of preferences and economics, and what works in Dallas might not work in Chicago or Seattle. Determining the best market for your product will help avoid costly mistakes and ensure a successful, targeted launch in North America.

At the KBIS Next Stage, #SL7185 in South Hall, NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy and Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association of the UK, discussed “The Windsor Declaration,” a bold initiative that is uniting manufacturers, trade associations, and certification bodies in an effort to inspire systemic change and lead the way toward a more sustainable future. They explored the transformative role of water-efficient technologies, improved hygiene solutions, and sustainable practices in addressing these crises.

After that, five subject matter experts took the Next Stage and talked about “European Kitchen Furniture: Ecodesign for Sustainable Products — What It Is, Why It Matters and How It’s Different.” Global Connect Advisors Kenn Busch, Dwayne Lusk, and Jeremy Parcels were joined by Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partners Alina Selbach, Head of Business for TÜV Rheinland LGA Products GmbH, and Jan Kurth, CEO of VDM, the German Furniture Association, to discuss North American consumer preferences for sustainably produced products with cleaner, simpler lines — the hallmarks of many European kitchen furniture brands.

The day ended with KBIS Uncorked, a celebration sponsored by Signature Kitchen Suite, which unveiled its new branding and logo. The event ushered in a “new era of luxury” for the brand, focusing its culinary journey on “Precision. Performance. Passion.” M-2 CEO Veronika Miller hosted designer Kimberly Kerl and design journalist Danny Seo, who all emphasized the importance of the sensory experience in design. “Homeowners want it to look pretty, but also feel pretty and sound pretty. Design must appeal to all the senses,” said Kerl. Seo said biophilic design was a big part of it as well, taking cues from nature, and that being in a well-designed space makes individuals feel respected. Champagne, fresh mozzarella and elegant nibbles from SKS Chef Nick Ritchie capped off the event.

The KBIS Next Stage is sponsored by Ferguson Home, Signature Kitchen Suite, Native Trails, and JennAir.

Wednesday Preview:

The NKBA Global Connect Lounge, #SL113 in South Hall, presents a packed slate of discussions on Wednesday.

10 – 11 AM: Global Connect Brand Spotlights

Greg Rohl, Global Connect Advisor and principal of The Rohl Model, hosts a series of rapid-fire presentations by five new-to-KBIS international brands, presenting innovative products to the North American market, followed by a brief Q&A.

12 – 1 PM: Distribution and Sales Options: Go-To-Market Strategies in North America

NKBA Global Connect Consultant Sherry Qualls hosts a panel of five Global Connect Advisors for a lively discussion about the finer points of sales, distribution, and showroom partner strategies in North America.

1:30 – 2:30 PM: The Bright Future of Design — Opportunities Beyond Business as Usual

Join Veronika Miller, CEO of M2 Consulting Group and founder of Designhounds, and award-winning designer Robin Rigby Fisher, CMKBD, CAPS, CLIPPS, for a discussion and Q&A exploring the importance of diversified sourcing and disruptive business models for designers, and navigating ways to charge design fees in an environment full of e-commerce, online and even AI based design services and purchasing options.

3 – 4:30 PM: Hit me with your Best SCHOTT

Celebrate the craftsmanship and American home of Germany’s SCHOTT CERAN (and its home tech brands) with a shot of Kentucky Bourbon. Learn how German engineering and technology is combined with American ingenuity to create innovative glass used in a myriad of ways to make life better at home. Register for a chance to win prizes.

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NKBA Announces 2025 National Committee Members

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Dec 9, 2024 10:04 pm

Member + Industry News

Following the recent announcement of its 2025 Board of Directors, NKBA also disclosed the members of its additional national volunteer committees – the Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC), Leadership Recruitment Committee (LRC) and KBIS Exhibitor Committee (KEC). Volunteer committee members each serve 3-year terms, with the terms commencing on January 1, 2025.

CLC Member Updates

The newest Chapter Leadership Committee members are Sadie Anderson, Vice President of Marketing & Design, CKF; and Rima Nasr, Interior Designer, RDesign Studio. They replace Nichole Cooper, Showroom Director of Middleby Residential; and Sandee Mann, Sales Executive of Kohler Canada.

Continuing CLC members include Kimberly Kerl, Owner & Principal Designer, Kustom Home Design;  Julie Schuster, Principal of Julie Schuster Design Studio; and Brianna Weiler, Vice President | Interior Designer, Kitchens by Charles Weiler. 

The Chapter Leadership Committee provides a link between the grassroots of the Association, its chapters and National Staff. They are charged with monitoring member needs and requests at the chapter level and conveying these to National staff, while also being tasked with chapter engagement initiatives and other important activations. 

LRC Member Updates

The newest Leadership Recruitment Committee members are Kristen Elder, Vice President- Showrooms, Residential Builder & Digital Commerce, Ferguson Enterprises and Veronika Miller, CEO, M2 Consulting Group. They replace Kevin Dexter, EVP and President, Spring Window Fashions, Montgomery, PA; and Jason McGraw, Group Vice President – CEDIA Expo/KBIS, Emerald, Alpharetta, GA.

Continuing LRC members include; James Brodsky, CEO, Sharp Think, New York, NY; Basil Larkin, NKBA Chair 2022, who was elected 2025 LRC chair, and Dr. Elmar Stumpf, Owner, Conneum GmbH, Germany.

The Leadership Recruitment Committee is charged with identifying and screening potential members for the Board of Directors (BOD) and the Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC). They meet after national elections to review all self-nominations received during the election cycle in September. 

KEC Member Updates

The newest members for the KBIS Exhibitor Committee are Christina Reed, Director – Brand Experience, GE Appliances a Haier Company; and Andrew Shead, Sales and Marketing Manager, True Residential.  

Continuing KEC members include Amy Switzer, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Emtek, who was elected 2025 Chair; Nathan Boone, COO, Green Forest Cabinetry; Massimo Ballucchi, Vice President of Institutional Relations at Cosentino North America; Jason Fisher, Senior Director of Global Integrated Marketing at Moen & House of Rohl; Katie Heaney, Owner of Kitchen Branding Gifts, and Jonathan Krieger, EVP at Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry.

The KBIS Exhibitor Committee provides a link between the exhibitors and attendees of KBIS, and National Staff, to ensure that their needs are being appropriately monitored and evaluated. They also advise National Staff on industry trends and make recommendations for appropriate products, programs, and services to meet the needs of the exhibitors and attendees at future KBIS’s. 

NKBA again thanks Nichole Cooper, Sandee Mann, Kevin Dexter, and Jason McGraw, for their dedication and commitment to these important committees over the last several years!

Below is a complete list of NKBA’s three national volunteer committees for 2025.

2025 Chapter Leadership Committee

Sadie Anderson
Vice President of Marketing and Design
CKF
Omaha, NE

Kimberly Kerl
Owner & Principal Designer
Kustom Home Design
Greenville, SC

Rima Nasr
Interior Designer
RDesign Studio
Richmond, TX

Julie Schuster
Principal
Julie Schuster Design Studio
New York, NY

Brianna Weiler
Vice President | Interior Designer 
Kitchens by Charles Weiler
Lahaska, PA

2025 Leadership Recruitment Committee

Basil Larkin, 2025 Chair
Redondo Beach, CA

James Brodsky
CEO
Sharp Think
New York, NY

Kristen Elder
Vice President – Showrooms, Residential Builder & Digital Commerce
Ferguson Enterprises
Newport News, VA

Veronika Miller
CEO
M2 Consulting Group
York, PA

Dr. Elmar Stumpf
Owner
Conneum GmbH
Oberkirch, Germany

Bill Darcy, Ex-Officio
Global President & Chief Executive Officer
National Kitchen & Bath Association
Bethlehem, PA

2025 KBIS Exhibitor Committee

Amy Switzer, 2025 Chair
Senior Brand Marketing Manager
Emtek
Irwindale, CA

Massimo Ballucchi
VP of Institutional Relations
Cosentino North America
Miami, FL 

Nathan Boone
COO
Green Forest Cabinetry
Chesapeake, VA

Jason Fisher
Sr. Director of Global Integrated Marketing
Moen & House of Rohl
Olmsted, OH 

Katie Heany,
Owner
Kitchen Branding Gifts
St. Louis, MO

Jonathan Krieger
EVP
Plain and Fancy Custom Cabinetry
Schaefferstown, PA

Christina Reed
Director – Brand Experience
GE Appliances a Haier Company
Wellington, FL

Andrew Shead
Marketing and Sales Manager
True Residential
O’Fallon, MO

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Regional Insights from Q3 2024 KBMI Point to Higher Expectations for 2025

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Nov 6, 2024 9:27 am

Kitchen & Bath Market Index
Florida, Texas and Southeastern K&B Pros Anticipate Strongest Revenue Growth
Image courtesy of Fabuwood.

By NKBA Editorial Staff

The Q3 2024 NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) includes important regional insights that reflect a generally static 2025 for the kitchen and bath industry as a whole, but also offers some clear signs that professionals believe a period of substantial growth is on the horizon.

K&B sales growth year- over year (YOY) was slowest in California, Texas and the Southwestern U.S. during the last quarter, according to the industry professionals surveyed. There were, however, indications of an upswing in other parts of the country. Most notably, K&B pros in the Southeast reported solid 8% YOY growth, while those in the Midwest (6%) and Northwest (6%) also cited positive results. Firms in Florida and Hawaii both cited an uptick in renovations following recent storms and the ongoing recovery from the 2022 Maui wildfires.

U.S.-based K&B firms, on average, expect to see revenue growth of 8% in 2025. Those solid projects are driven, in large part, by optimism from surveyed professionals in Florida, Texas and the Southeast region – all report expected growth of 10% or more next year.

Here are some additional regional highlights from the Q3 2024 KBMI report:

Slow Sales in the Southwest and California

Sentiment from California-based pros reflected ongoing uncertainty about several factors, including the election, the economy, and higher costs. Southwest firms also commented on the persistent divide between wealthy and more reluctant middle-income consumers. Despite these challenges, K&B professionals in these areas anticipate 2025 growth of 7-8% on average.

Southeast Firms Lean Into Proactive Business Strategies  

Companies across the Southeast described steps they will take in the new year to achieve their hoped-for 10% average growth rate. Examples include upgrading showroom displays, increasing marketing spending, networking with builders, and stepping up their media activities.

In the Midwest, New York and New Jersey, Gen-X and Millennials are Actively Renovating

Kitchen and bath professionals in the Midwest region, including Illinois, noted stronger Gen-X and millennial performance. On average, pros in the region expect revenue growth of 8%. Similar sentiments were reported by pros in the New York/New Jersey area.

“Industry pros across the country are reporting very positive expectations for the coming year, anticipating that, over time, the considerable pent up demand for K&B renovations will start to translate into more active projects,” said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO, NKBA | KBIS. “It’s clear that K&B firms have been smart in weathering a challenging year, and are being equally strategic as they prepare to capitalize on growth opportunities in 2025.”

To access additional regional data and insights, download the full Q3 2024 NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report here.

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Five Innovative Kitchen Gadgets You Might Not Know You Need

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Oct 10, 2024 2:29 pm

K&B Month
These cool culinary tools add fun and functionality to your food routine.

By Nicholas Tamarin

Image courtesy of Mansion Global/zaha-hadid.com.

Make cooking more enjoyable and less time-consuming. That’s long been the promise of culinary gadgetry. They’re the tools and devices designed to make cooking, food preparation, and kitchen tasks more efficient, enjoyable, healthier, and sometimes even fun. The accouterments range from basic utensils to advanced appliances and can save time, effort, and add creativity to everyday cooking. With technological advancements and innovative designs, kitchen gadgets have evolved to help both amateur cooks and professional chefs elevate their culinary experience. Whether you’re seasoned or just starting out, the right ones can transform your kitchen.


1. Automatic Pot and Pan Stirrer with Timer

Courtesy of Walmart.

Perfect for recipes that require constant stirring, this gadget frees up your hands by automatically stirring your pot or pan at the perfect speed, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking and burning. The device usually comes with three-legged arms or paddles that rest inside the pot or pan, making contact with the surface. It’s particularly useful for dishes such as risottos, custards, and soups.

Many models come with built-in timers that allow you to set the duration of stirring based on your recipe. This way, it stirs for the exact amount of time needed, helping to avoid overcooking or under-stirring. Some automatic stirrers offer multiple speed settings, allowing you to control how vigorously the food is stirred, from a whirl for a sauce to vigorously mixing a thick stew.

2. Sous Vide Machine

Courtesy of Monoprice.

A sous vide machine is a precision cooking device that uses a water bath to cook food in airtight vacuum-sealed bags at a precisely controlled low temperature, ensuring perfect doneness that retains moisture, flavors, and nutrients for both meats and vegetables. They’re a game-changer for home chefs, allowing for precision, convenience, and consistent, restaurant-quality results. 

Most sous vide machines are immersion circulators, meaning they heat and circulate water to maintain a constant temperature, eliminating fluctuations to  ensure consistent results. Food, typically seasoned and sometimes marinated, is vacuum-sealed in a plastic bag or placed in a resealable bag with as much air removed as possible. Once the food is in the water bath, the machine does the work without the need for constant monitoring. Sous vide is great for cooking tougher cuts of meat, like brisket or short ribs, at low temperatures over a long period of time, making them tender while preserving their moisture.

3. Digital Meat Thermometer Fork 

Courtesy of Williams Sonoma.

A digital meat thermometer fork is a handy and efficient tool for ensuring perfectly cooked meats. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, roasting in the oven, or cooking on the stovetop, its dual functionality makes it a great gadget. Combining a meat thermometer with a fork, the utensil allows you to easily check the internal temperature of meats while cooking and handling them simultaneously. 

Many models have pre-programmed temperature settings for different types of meat (e.g., beef, pork, poultry, lamb) and levels of doneness (e.g., rare, medium, well-done). Some also provide alerts when the meat reaches the desired temperature, ensuring that harmful bacteria are eliminated. They’re particularly useful for outdoor grilling, where you need to frequently check the doneness of multiple types of meat.

4. Air Fryer

Courtesy of Philips.

An air fryer is a countertop kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, creating a crispy exterior similar to frying, but with significantly less oil. They’ve gained popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying while still delivering a satisfying crunch and texture to foods like fries, chicken, vegetables, and even baked goods like cookies or pastries.

Air fryers use a fan to circulate hot air at high speeds, cooking food evenly and faster than conventional ovens, thanks to the rapid air circulation and concentrated heat. Compared to traditional ovens, air fryers also use less energy and heat up faster, which can reduce electricity usage.

5. Electric Pressure Cooker

Courtesy of Instant Pot.

A versatile gadget that combines multiple kitchen appliances in one, an electric pressure cooker uses high-pressure steam to cook dishes faster than conventional methods. It’s a staple in many kitchens due to its ability to work as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and even yogurt maker. 

Most electric pressure cookers have pre-programmed settings that automatically adjust the cooking time and pressure level for optimal results. As the steam builds up inside, the pressure rises, allowing the temperature to increase beyond the normal boiling point of water. The elevated temperature and pressure help to break down fibers in food, especially in tougher cuts of meat, beans, and grains, which would typically require long cooking times. Because they cook faster, electric pressure cookers use less energy compared to stovetop cooking or ovens. The quick cooking process and sealed environment help to preserve nutrients, making pressure-cooked meals often healthier than those cooked by traditional techniques.

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NKBA | KBIS Innovative Showroom Awards Now Open! 

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Sep 24, 2024 9:33 pm

KBIS 2025
Attention All Innovators: The Entry Period for the NKBA | KBIS 2025 Innovative Showroom Awards is NOW OPEN! 
Image courtesy of Rocpal Custom Cabinets Ltd. Designed by Fernando Rocchetta.

Are you ready to showcase your groundbreaking showroom to the world? This is your moment! The prestigious Innovative Showroom Awards are back, and submissions are officially open! If you’ve got a showroom that wows, educates, and inspires, now’s your chance to step into the spotlight. The deadline to enter? November 3, 2024.

What’s at stake? The winners will be honored on the grand stage at the Design & Industry Awards in Las Vegas on February 24, 2025 — the day before KBIS 2025, the biggest kitchen and bath industry event of the year, running from Feb. 25-27, 2025. Talk about being in the spotlight!

But you’ve got to act fast—submissions close on November 3, 2024 at 11:59 PM. Don’t miss out!

Categories Open for Nominations:
  • Brand Specific Non-Selling Experience Centers (One Winner)
    • A showroom dedicated to showcasing one brand, allowing a deep dive into the design and product experience.
  • Kitchen & Bath Design Centers (Small, Medium, Large)
    • A K&B design center offering expert design and project management teams ready to work from conception to completion, for fixture or appliance updates to full K&B remodels.
  • Traditional Independent Multi-brand/Product Showroom (Small, Medium, Large)
    • An independent showroom that sells/displays various products and brands.
  • Multi-Location, Multi-Product Showroom (Medium, Large)
    • Showrooms with multiple locations offering a wide range of products under one company banner.
  • Unique Showroom Application (One Winner)
    • Thinking outside the brick-and-mortar box? This category is for virtual, mobile, or other unconventional showrooms!
How to Enter:

Submit your nomination along with a $100 entry fee by November 3, 2024 at 11:59 PM. Once entered, your submission will be carefully reviewed, and the winners will be selected, notified, and announced by mid-December.

Winners will not only bask in the glory at KBIS 2025 but will also be featured in both print and digital communications, showcasing their showroom to the industry’s finest.

Don’t Wait — Submit Your Entry Today! Let your showroom shine! This is your chance to show the world how you’re revolutionizing the customer experience. Learn more, enter now, and mark your calendars for KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas!

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NKBA Reveals 40 Certification Grant Recipients

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Sep 24, 2024 9:31 pm

Member + Industry News
The program, sponsored by Signature Kitchen Suite, supports emerging designers in their quest toward certification.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

In its drive to support rising designers and help them enhance their professional skills, NKBA | KBIS instituted an annual grant program to allow eligible designers to earn certification or level up to a higher designation at no cost. The program is generously sponsored by luxury appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS).

Forty rising design stars were selected to receive the grants, which cover the costs associated with certification. In addition, NKBA and SKS will support the recipients throughout the certification process with special events and awards.

“Like our partners at NKBA, Signature Kitchen Suite believes in the power of design to inspire and innovate,” said Donille Perrone, Senior Brand Manager for SKS. “We are thrilled to sponsor the inaugural NKBA Certified Designer Grant Program to help further drive opportunities for innovation and design excellence within the talented KB community.”

To qualify for the grant, designers must be NKBA members in good standing, currently working in K&B design, and earning $75,000 or less annually. They must complete a two-part exam process, submit a portfolio, and verify a minimum of two years of industry-related work experience.

The 2024 recipients are:

Arnaz Khambatta, Good Deeds Design, San Diego

Amber Howard, CKD-CBD, Six Walls Interior Design, Aurora, CO

Yvonne Landivar, AKBD, Creative Construction & Design, Reseda, CA

Elizabeth Leahy, AKBD, Leahy Interior Design, Escondido, CA

Gloribell Lebron, G. Lebron Interiors, Miami

Denean Jackson, D. Nicole Design Studio, Charlotte, NC

Christine Germaine Lucas, The Artsy Designer by LR Designs / Cochrane Floors and More, Calgary, Alberta

Samantha McClintic, McClintic Interiors, Bend, OR

Isaac Musket, C&K Custom Remodeling, Portland, OR

Gia Rushton, OC&D Design Studio, Riverton, UT

Dawn Simpson, Essence Designs, Ottawa, Ontario

Sarah Wilson, Chansaerae Designs, Woodbridge, VA

Julie Schuster, Julie Schuster Design Studio, New York

Jessica Rogers, Simmer and Soak, Saint Simons Island, GA

Melanie Prechel, Jemma Living, Hermantown, MN

Patty Smith, Patty Smith Interior Design, Littleton, CO

Victoria Tramonto, Victoria Isabella Home Designs, Staten Island, NY

Andria Uhrig, Project Kitchens, Windsor, CO

Roxana Villaseñor, Roxy Interiors, San Jose, CA

Beth Rush, AKBD, Uniway of Columbia, Columbia, SC

Joshua Ouimet, Hinge Works, Washington, UT

Melissa Longley, Longley Kitchens, Fort Meyers, FL

Yanis Anis Mezouar, Prestigious Kitchen & Home Design, Chicago

Kimberly Melchior, KMB Design, La Mesa, CA

Ella Long, Kitchens Unlimited, Memphis, TN

Melissa Mailly, Allied Kitchen and Bath, Wilton Manors, FL

Stephanie Lagos, MCG Homes, Fernandina Beach, FL

Kacie Gelsinger, Floor Trader Outlet, Chambersburg, PA

Laura Zmuda, Laura ZB Design, Browns Point WA

Samia Verbist, Samia Verbist Interior Design, Huntington Beach, CA

Leonia Azevedo, AKBD, Bouchard Design, Georgetown, Ontario

Delayna Adams-Pascoe, Tile and Bath Service, St. Louis

Yan “Butterfly” Yao, CKBD, Homey Kitchen Cabinet Design, Toronto

Jennifer Feliciano, CKBD, Masterful Designs by Jen, Delray Beach, FL

Ashley Christensen, Lindy Design Build, Littleton, CO

Shaqueria Dial, Daltile, Birmingham, AL

Cristina DePina, Cristina DePina Interior Design, Worcester, MA

Ken Ellner, Laurel Home Improvements, Mount Laurel, NJ

Christina Birkentall, CKD, NCIDQ, Studio 626 Interiors, Lafayette, LA

Melissa Dreyer, Lindross Remodeling, Tampa, FL

Interested designers who were unable to apply in time will have the opportunity to apply in 2025.

Certification distinguishes designers for their proficiency in design and execution, and gives them a competitive edge in business. Click here for more information on certification, and here for details on the Grant Program.

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Five Questions with… Megan Kyper

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Sep 10, 2024 10:16 am

5 Questions With…
A K&B designer for The Home Depot parlayed her own renovation journey into a career, and is among a handful of NKBA members to earn all eight NKBA Specialty Badges.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Megan Kyper, a kitchen and bath designer for about three years at The Home Depot in Johnstown, PA, is proof that sometimes the best education comes out of personal experience.

After starting her career path in a pre-pharmacy college program, she decided to pursue a field she was more passionate about — interior design — and switched schools. She graduated from Indiana University of

Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design in 2007. She found a job as an associate design technician at Peoples Natural Gas, handling permitting, applications, and some drafting/design work when needed — but it still wasn’t her passion. Then a friend told her about an opening at The Home Depot for a kitchen designer, so she went for it.

Save $100 on a Specialty Badge Purchase – Buy Now!

After living on her own for 10 years and working for the gas company, she bought her first home in 2017, and spent the next two-and-a-half years renovating it.

“It was a foreclosure and needed a complete gut job, which I knew when I bought it,” she recalled.  New electrical, new plumbing, new roof, new heating system, insulation — new everything. It was the first time since I graduated with my interior design degree that I really put my education to full use.”

Granted, she was the go-to person for friends looking to rearrange rooms and pick out paint colors, she said, but the renovation helped her learn how to maximize space planning, figure out where light switches, outlets and plumbing would go, what flooring was best, budgeting for a budget, how to work with contractors, schedule trades, adjust the floor plan, deal with delays — everything she needed to succeed in real-life client  situations.

“You learn about different products that you maybe otherwise wouldn’t have heard of,” she added. “It’s important in the kitchen and bath industry — or any profession, really — to know that you aren’t going to have the answer to every question and every problem that arises. You need to lean on others and welcome their expertise throughout a project. And that’s OK.  And perhaps that also helped reignite that spark when I walked into The Home Depot in search of a change.”

The Pennsylvania native, who is a member of NKBA’s Pittsburgh Tri State Chapter and also coaches high school tennis, spoke with NKBA about her journey and motivation in earning all eight Specialty Badges.

What are your specific job responsibilities?

I really am involved in the entire project from start to finish — consultation, design, sales, and in some cases, the install. Some customers want stock cabinets, while others are looking more for a semi-custom to custom look. Really getting to know your customer’s needs is so important. Some already have an idea of layout and just want to replace what’s there. Others need help with making a few subtle changes and seeing the visual, while others need help with a whole makeover that involves moving appliances, plumbing, and electrical.

The follow-up to any project is equally as important. Allowing your customer to give you feedback on all aspects of the project lets them feel that they are important to you as a client, and their project is more than just a sale to meet monthly numbers.

I love that every project is different. This is my first retail job, and though some days are very taxing, seeing the finished project and hearing from your customer how much they love their new space makes it all worthwhile. With some projects, it takes a couple of revisions to really get what the customer wants. Much like a tennis match, that ball can go back and forth several times before you accomplish the task at hand. It’s important to never give up, continue listening to your customer, and make changes until you get exactly what they’re after.

What drove you to earn all eight badges?

Our industry changes constantly. Once I started at The Home Depot, the one training course I was required to take mentioned the NKBA and the badge program, so I looked into it. It seemed like a great refresher on industry topics, so I thought, ‘Why not?” I would gain better knowledge of this industry, in which I hadn’t been active in almost 15 years. I spoke to my management, told them what I wanted to do — on my own time — and they were grateful that I was taking the initiative to further my knowledge, so The Home Depot reimbursed me for the cost of the badges.

What were the easiest and toughest badges to earn?

The toughest badge for me was Sustainability. Being green wasn’t nearly as important 2007 as it is now…so there was a lot of information I never knew. The easiest was either Color or Remodeling. I have always loved color and am forever amazed at the number of shades and tones of each color. Remodeling was easy because I have always been a hands-on learner. I helped my dad remodel the bathrooms and kitchen in our family home, and of course, there’s the full remodel of my own home.

What advice do you have for anyone else thinking about earning all the badges? Absolutely do it!  You can do them on your own time (I literally did one at 1 in the morning because I couldn’t sleep!) and you get to expand your knowledge for a fraction of the cost of college courses. Why wouldn’t you do it? And if you’re looking to maybe take the CKBD exam, but have been out of studying and coursework for a while, what better way to use the badge program as a stepping stone?

What’s next for you professionally?

I am currently studying for NKBA’s Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer exam.  For right now, I am happy at The Home Depot.  Once I get through the Certification, we’ll see how life shakes out. It has a funny way of surprising us sometimes!

—

Just 34 NKBA | KBIS members have earned six or more Specialty Badges, with an elite six members earning all eight. Current badges include Floor Plans & Specifications, Lighting, Cabinetry, Sales & Marketing, Sustainability, Remodeling, Universal Design, and Color. Badges cost $199 apiece for the study materials and testing, and NKBA periodically offers special promotions that give members discounts. For more information about the badges, visit NKBA.org.

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Registration for KBIS 2025 is Opening Soon!

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Aug 21, 2024 12:35 pm

KBIS 2025Member + Industry News
Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

By Donna Heiderstadt

Registration for KBIS 2025, which will take place Feb. 25-27, 2025, in Las Vegas, is opening soon, starting on Sept. 3. Registration is FREE for NKBA members during the month of September — so register early to secure your free Expo pass! You’ll enjoy access to North America’s largest kitchen and bath event, where you can discover new brands and products, explore the latest trends, enhance your education, develop vital connections, and more.

During KBIS 2024, which marked the 60th anniversary of the show, more than 117,000 building and design professionals attended DCW (Design & Construction Week), the co-location of KBIS and IBS (the International Builders’ Show), owned by NAHB. KBIS 2024 welcomed a record 55,500+ registered visitors and, with more than 670 exhibitors, expanded into the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center with the Discovery District (the spot to find new brands and products) as well as additional stages and activations, all returning in 2025.

KBIS 2025 will kick off on the evening of Feb. 24, 2025, with the annual NKBA Kitchen & Bath Design + Industry Awards, where top design professionals will be honored for exceptional design in six kitchen and bath categories and compete for Best Overall Kitchen and Best Overall Bath. A total of $100,000 in prize money will be up for grabs. Following the awards, the afterparty will offer a chance to celebrate the industry, network with colleagues and clients, and have fun.

Other noteworthy events at KBIS 2025 will include the Voices From The Industry (VFTI) educational conference, featuring more than 75 workshops and sessions, and KBIS NEXTStage, which will offer non-stop daily programming focused on business and trends, wellness, sustainability, and technology.

NEXTStage will also host multiple awards presentations. The Best of KBIS will honor the show’s most innovative design and technology. DesignBites will offer a chance for companies to pitch new products and technologies in the ultimate product showdown. On the show’s final day, the Best Booth Awards will highlight the top exhibitor booths in multiple size categories.

Also at NEXTStage, the Kickstarter Competition will give small or emerging companies a chance to showcase their offerings, while the Thirty Under 30 Awards will recognize 30 high-achieving young members of the kitchen-and-bath industry — who are also tasked with scouting KBIS for the most innovative products in six categories for the 30s Choice Awards.

NKBA members can also attend the annual State of the Association (SOA) presentation by NKBA Global President & CEO Bill Darcy, followed by the State of the Industry (SOI) panel discussion moderated by Darcy. Design-focused panel discussions will also be offered at the NKBA booth, where a photographer will once again be on hand to take free headshots.

KBIS 2025, taking place Feb-25-27, 2025 in Las Vegas, is the event of the year for K&B professionals to network, exchange ideas, and see the industry’s newest and most exciting offerings. Members can register here throughout September for FREE starting on Sept. 3!

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Industry Pros Reveal Emerging Regional K&B Trends  

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Aug 12, 2024 9:49 am

Kitchen & Bath Market Index
New Geographic Insights from the NKBA | KBIS Q2 2024 Kitchen & Bath Market Index Report 
Designed by Esthela J. Celaya. Photographed by Jaret Miller.

By NKBA Editorial Staff

For the first time, the Q2 2024 Kitchen & Bath Market Index report includes geographic insights by segment, offering another layer of information about emerging regional trends.

Q2 2024 sales for the K&B industry slowed across much of the country, including the Southwest (-5 percent year-over-year) and Southeast (-3 percent), with the exception of Florida (+6 percent). Modest growth was reported in the Northwest (+2 percent), Midwest (+1 percent) and Northeast (+2 percent) regions.

Other trends emerging from K&B firms across the nation included:

“Missing Middle” on the West Coast

California firms surveyed repeated the theme of a bifurcated market – demand remains strong for high-end renovations, while homeowners are more hesitant about pursuing mid-sized renovation projects right now.

Pockets of Growth in the Southwest

Southwest firms described pockets of strength for new construction K&B activity, and many expect a return to broader growth by the end of the year.

Consumer Uncertainty in the Northwest

Consumer uncertainty dampened activity in the Northwest, with high prices and interest rate pressures weighing heavily. Idaho was a notable bright spot in terms of demand.

Labor Concerns in the Midwest

In the Midwest, lack of skilled labor remains a chronic concern and a barrier to moving forward with major K&B renovations.

Northeast Remains Resilient

Northeast firms report slowing sales but continued resilience from wealthier segments. Millennials, though generally budget-conscious, are providing an unexpected boost – defying a trend seen in other parts of the country.

A Mixed Bag in the Southeast

Southeast firms report mixed conditions; some see continued strength, while others cite consumer hesitancy. High-end remodeling in Florida remained strong, perhaps fueled in part by homeowners who have recently resettled from other parts of the country.

“While market conditions and trends vary from region to region, there are some consistent themes that will probably come as no surprise to industry professionals,” said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO, NKBA | KBIS. “Many homeowners are still being cautious about spending, and the youngest homeowners, in particular, are turning to online merchants and seeking better deals from contractors. Meanwhile, Boomers tend to be the most reliable consumers and are, in many ways, continuing to drive modest growth in the K&B sector.”

You can read more insights from K&B companies across the country by downloading the Q2 2024 NKBA/ John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report here.

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How Designers Can Boost Their Lighting Expertise

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Jul 16, 2024 5:11 pm

Research
Experience-Based Insights from Design Pros surveyed in the Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design 
Designed by Corri Melling. Photographed by Maddi Brown.

By NKBA Editorial Team

A group of K&B designers who participated in the new NKBA/KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design report confirm that many designers they know lack the knowledge and experience to expertly light a kitchen or bath. Others, they say,  are intimidated by — or even fearful of — dealing with lighting. In fact, according to research by NKBA | KBIS, nearly three-quarters of designers admit that their knowledge of lighting techniques and products is limited.  

Designers who are comfortable discussing the essentials of lighting can increase their marketability and grow their business. The surveyed group of kitchen and bath design pros shared some important advice that can help all designers up their game when it comes to lighting.   

Among their key insights:

The Right Light in the Right Place

Lighting design can be sophisticated and intricate, but the core principle is very simple: it’s about getting the right light in the right place. The “right light” provides at least 50 footcandles on the work surface, with older homeowners needing 100 footcandles or more. The “right place” is directly above the work surface, so homeowners are not working in their own shadow.

Factor in Flexibility to Meet Clients’ Needs, Now and into the Future

Homeowners have different needs and preferences, which means it’s important to give them the ability to control their own lighting. For example, designs that include dimmer switches on most circuits offer that important flexibility. Smart lighting plans also anticipate homeowners’ changing needs as they age. Older eyes will require more light and less glare.

Sometimes Less is More

From their experience, the K&B design pros recommend reducing the number and size of recessed light cans, whenever possible. Larger, outdated cans should be replaced with smaller, 2”-3” integrated LEDS with strong lumens and better color temperature. “Recessed can grids” are best for commercial, not residential, settings. Relying less on recessed overhead lights for ambient light and focusing on task lighting is both more functional and attractive.

Always Think Ahead

To help convince clients about the importance of investing in lighting, the design pros recommend future-proofing a lighting plan. Homeowners worry about obsolescence and will see the value in anticipating potential future needs, such as adding interior cabinet or toe-kick lighting at a later time, and minimizing the related costs down the line.

For more valuable insights about lighting in residential design, download and read the full NKBA/KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design report here. As always, these research reports are free to NKBA members. 

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Design Pros Explain How to Budget for – and Prioritize – Great Lighting

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: Jul 10, 2024 11:23 am

Research
Practical Tips Featured in NKBA-KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design Report
Designed by Bahar Zaeem & Shima Radfar. Photographed by Ryan Fung.

By NKBA Editorial Staff  

Historically, lighting hasn’t been prioritized in the planning and budgeting of major kitchen and bath projects. But as the importance of lighting in residential design has become increasingly obvious, professionals are sharing advice about how to ensure lighting receives the attention and resources it deserves. These insights are featured in the first-ever NKBA-KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design report, a qualitative study on the topic of lighting in kitchen and bath design.

NKBA Design Competition Now Open — Enter Today!

Among the notable tips shared by 10 leading designers from across the country:

Advocate from the Onset

The design professionals say lighting should receive the same consideration as items like appliances, cabinetry and stone. They recommend, for example, allocating 10 percent to 15 percent of a kitchen renovation budget to lighting – even more for luxury design. This means advocating for its importance early in the planning process with homeowners, whose attention will likely be focused on other, traditionally-prioritized design elements.

Estimate to Avoid Surprises

Designers need to start estimating early in the budgeting and planning process, layering in lighting costs on the builder plans. Developing initial rough estimates can help set and manage client expectations from the start. It’s also important to account for obvious and not-so-obvious cost drivers. Among the most common budgeting issues: incomplete electrical plans, less experienced electricians and the failure to account for costly finishes.

Educate Clients and Demonstrate the Difference

Clients must be educated early on about the key role lighting plays in a project’s success. The pros recommend finding different ways to show clients how impactful good – and bad – lighting can be on the final product. For example, the designers have had clients view before and after project photos to illustrate how proper lighting can solve dark spots and other problems. They have also created design lighting lab experiences, such as taking a client’s favorite piece of art to view under different colors and temperatures.

Design for Value and Prioritize the Spend

When working up a lighting budget, save where possible and splurge where necessary. The surveyed design pros say that lighting in the kitchen, primary bath and powder room should be prioritized. Task lighting should take precedence over ambient lighting – and both are more important than decorative lighting. There are various ways to spend wisely, from using fewer, high quality recessed cans to opting for stock brands rather than custom lighting fixtures.

Expect and Manage Changes

Lighting changes are inevitable, according to these experienced design pros. They say it’s best to try to account for these “audibles” in the budgeting process ahead of time. Otherwise, last-minute decisions made by contractors or homeowners, like fixture swaps, made long after the lighting plan has been “locked in” can have significant consequences.

Build Partnerships

It’s important for designers to build partnerships with builders, architects and electricians. Joint walkthroughs are an effective way to ensure everyone is aligned on lighting design and execution. By working together, everyone can share ideas and knowledge that will produce the best results for a client.

For more useful insights about budgeting and other aspects of lighting in residential design, download and read the full NKBA/KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design report here.

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NKBA Reorganizes for Future Growth

R

Ryan Lance

Posted: May 22, 2024 10:18 pm

Member + Industry News
Letter from the desk of Global President & CEO, Bill Darcy.

NKBA | KBIS recently celebrated 60 years of engaging, connecting and educating the North American kitchen and bath industry. As the leading association for manufacturers, designers, retailers, builders, remodelers and architects across all segments of home design with a focus on kitchen and bath, we are extremely excited about the future of our industry in North America and internationally.

After taking a more holistic view of our organization and its potential for global growth and influence, we’ve decided to make a number of internal changes to our organizational structure. We believe these align with our strategic growth initiatives and anticipated operational efficiencies, setting the tone for our future ensuring positive impact, relevance and strength.

To this end, we are pleased to announce the promotion of Heather Shannon to the position of Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth. This new position will further define the importance of our NKBA business development plans.  Assuming responsibilities for Global Connect, Sponsorship and Revenue Growth, Member Relations and Learning, Heather will put in place new and innovative approaches to each of these areas, evolving and growing our Association. Heather was formerly Director of Brand Marketing at long-time NKBA member Perlick and has held numerous brand, public relations and marketing positions with agencies and media outlets.

Additionally, Suzie Williford, our Chief Global Relations Officer has departed the Association. Please join me in acknowledging Suzie’s contributions and commitment to the NKBA over the past 12 years. 

It has been my personal pleasure to collaborate with Suzie as a key member of the leadership team. After more than a decade of volunteer service to the NKBA, Suzie served as Board President in 2009. She began her NKBA career in 2012 as Director of Business Development and Member Relations and was inducted into the Industry Hall of Fame in 2019. In her capacity as EVP and Chief Strategy Officer, Suzie was core to our Association growth by implementing the co-location of our industry trade show, KBIS, with NAHB and the International Builders Show, making it the largest industry trade event in North America; restructuring our Association governance, championing the NKBA Global Connect business development initiative and concepting and creating the Women2Women mentoring program. We thank her for her dedication and service and wish her health and happiness.

As the NKBA continues to grow and strengthen our presence in the kitchen and bath industry, we are confident this shift in organizational structure will put us in a powerful position to drive the industry forward.

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