Submit your proposal now to take the stage at KBIS in Las Vegas!
NKBA | KBIS is now accepting proposals for the 2027 Voices from the Industry (VFTI) Conference taking place February 2–4 during KBIS at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
VFTI is one of the industry’s premier professional education platforms, bringing together experienced voices from across the kitchen and bath industry to share ideas, strategies, insights, and innovations that help professionals grow and succeed. This is an opportunity to take the stage among respected industry leaders, contribute to meaningful conversations, and help shape the future of the profession.
For 2027, NKBA is placing a strong emphasis on dynamic, engaging, and interactive educational experiences. The conference is especially seeking sessions that move beyond traditional lecture-style presentations and actively involve attendees in the learning process.
The conference will feature more than 50 sessions across four live presentation formats:
Panel Discussions Moderated sessions featuring up to three subject matter experts focused on a specific topic, encouraging multi-perspective insights and audience dialogue.
Roundtables Facilitated group discussions led by up to two experts, designed to encourage conversation, collaboration, and idea sharing between facilitators and attendees.
Workshops Highly interactive, hands-on sessions built around clear learning objectives, where participants actively engage and ideally leave with practical tools, takeaways, or completed exercises.
Presentations Structured, content-driven sessions introducing fresh ideas, emerging trends, or practical business strategies, typically delivered in a speaking format with time for audience Q&A.
VFTI caters to a broad professional audience. While NKBA’s designer community remains central to the program, attendees also include architects, remodelers, manufacturers, retailers, sales representatives, craftspeople, and business executives.
Industry professionals and business experts are invited to submit one or more proposals for consideration. Submissions will be evaluated based on content relevance, audience engagement, practical application, presentation style, speaker diversity, and previous evaluations when applicable.
Proposals must be submitted by June 15, 2026. All selected speakers will be notified by August 28.
Speaker benefits include:
Complimentary KBIS VIP registration package for two presenters per program (four for panel discussions), including access to the expo, VFTI conference sessions, and The BASH
Access to the speaker lounge before and after presentations
Exposure on event webpages and marketing materials
Post-event evaluations and attendee feedback
0.3 CEUs for NKBA-certified designers who present
Please note that VFTI speakers are non-paid, and all travel, lodging, and meal expenses are the responsibility of the speaker.
Interested professionals can learn more and submit proposals by visitingNKBA VFTI Submissions.
Look for warm, earthy, sophisticated colors to dominate interior design next year.
Image courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.
By NKBA Staff
Eleven major paint companies, plus international color arbiter Pantone, have spoken.
The paint companies’ 2026 colors of the year reveal a march toward warm, nature-inspired colors. Neutrals still play a role, but are complemented by bold, saturated tones. Landscapes and quaint stone architecture have influenced the top color choices for the year ahead, with greens in the starring role. Browns — from dark espresso to redwood — creamy neutrals, and pale yellows serve as supporting players. They align with the NKBA’s 2026 Kitchen Design Trends research, which cites greens, blues, and browns as the predominant kitchen tones for next year.
Pantone, however, selected a calming white hue that sets the stage for creativity, allowing all other colors to stand out.
The message for 2026 is that color is definitely back, and it’s being used to create tranquil spaces or bold statements. Here, the experts weigh in.
Pantone: Cloud Dancer. This serene, billowy white is a key structural color and “serves as a symbol of color calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.”
Benjamin Moore:Silhouette. A rich brown reminiscent of tailored suiting, this elegant color weaves deep espresso hues with refined notes of charcoal.
Glidden: Warm Mahogany. This rich, grounded red with a hint of brown is a nod to nature, bold yet timeless.
Sherwin-Williams:Universal Khaki. An easygoing neutral that pulls together any room. It’s a warm, earthy tone evocative of a safari landscape.
Behr: Hidden Gem. Tying into the trend for natural greens, this smoky jade is rich and sophisticated, making a dramatic statement.
Valspar: Warm Eucalyptus. As its name implies, this grayish green is naturally restorative and serene, creating a tranquil yet stylish environment.
PPG: Warm Mahogany. Another vote for this cozy, burnished red-brown that provides a focal point in any space.
Dunn-Edwards: Midnight Garden. A deep, muted green with earthy undertones that capture nature’s quiet elegance of a garden bathed in moonlight.
Dutch Boy: Melodious Ivory. This creamy shade adds warmth and a nostalgic, elevated vibe, perfect for showcasing handmade pieces and bold layers. A timeless but deliberate neutral that serves as an ideal backdrop for bold accents.
C2: Epernay. Named after the charming French village, this pale, sophisticated yellow channels the warmth of sunlit stone, the muted richness of vintage textiles, and the opulence of Champagne.
Graham & Brown: Divine Damson. Another saturated, warm color, this opulent shade is inspired by the lush tones of ripe damson plums and figs, with hints of mulberry and garnet.
Farrow & Ball: Naperon. This peachy terracotta is a familiar, warm clay that creates a cozy, welcoming space with a vintage vibe, grounded in earthy red undertones.
We celebrated the innovation, connection, and momentum across the kitchen and bath industry.
As 2025 comes to a close, NKBA | KBIS reflects on a year defined by industry-shaping innovation, powerful community moments, and milestone achievements across the kitchen and bath sector. From record-breaking design honors to landmark business moves and high-impact chapter events, these are the stories that shaped our industry in 2025— and set the stage for an exciting year ahead.
One of the most anticipated annual traditions at KBIS, the Design & Industry Awards gala once again showcased the best of the best in kitchen and bath design. Eighteen standout projects were selected from hundreds of entries, with designers competing for $100,000 in prize money across six categories: Large Kitchen, Small Kitchen, Specialty Kitchen, Primary Bath, Secondary Bath, and Powder Room.
The year’s Best Overall Kitchen and Best Overall Bath winners demonstrated the extraordinary creativity and elevated craftsmanship driving residential design forward. From European-inspired small kitchens to serene Scandinavian retreats, the 2025 winners proved that innovation, functionality, and artistry continue to define the NKBA design community.
With an esteemed jury of CMKBD-certified judges, this year’s competition reinforced NKBA’s longtime commitment to recognizing excellence and elevating industry standards.
A major global business story impacted the K&B world this year: Bosch announced its most significant acquisition in company history, agreeing to purchase Johnson Controls International’s residential and light commercial HVAC business for $8 billion.
The purchase—expected to nearly double the size of Bosch’s Home Comfort division—signals intensified global investment in HVAC innovation, sustainability, and performance. The deal also expands Bosch’s U.S. footprint and strengthens its presence in Asia through Johnson Controls’ joint venture with Hitachi.
As global HVAC demand is projected to grow 40% by the end of the decade, this acquisition represents a pivotal shift in the sector. It reinforces the increasing interconnection between home comfort, technology, and design.
This year, NKBA | KBIS released The Power of KBIS: Building Business Through Connections, a new video that illustrates how the show creates unmatched opportunities for designers, brands, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
The video features Jake Slatnick, CEO and founder of FreePower, whose company debuted FreePower for Countertop at KBIS 2024, ultimately earning Best in Show. Slatnick highlights how exhibiting at KBIS opened doors to thousands of contacts—including a significant partnership with Cosentino—and elevated the company’s visibility across the industry.
“What other event is there anywhere in the world where everybody is there—decision makers, influencers—all in one place?” Slatnick reflects.
The video captures exactly what makes KBIS the must-attend event for anyone in the kitchen and bath ecosystem.
NKBA’s Big Sky and Mountain States Chapters kicked off spring with a dynamic multi-chapter meeting at Boise’s Renegade Hotel—an event filled with learning, collaboration, and future-focused insights.
Highlights included:
Katye Bennett, CEO of KMB Communications, on the convergence of design and technology.
Deb Webb, NKBA EVP of Operations & KBIS, is delivering a research deep dive, a KBIS 2025 recap, and the debut of the Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub.
David Weinstein, Lutron VP of Residential Sales, is demonstrating the emotional power of intelligent lighting.
Tom Knotts, NKBA Central Florida Chapter President, shares practical guidance on cabinetry innovation and sustainable design.
With sponsor showcases, CEU breakouts, and peer-to-peer learning, the event underscored the strength of NKBA’s chapter network and the value of community in driving industry progress.
At New York City’s iconic Hearst Tower, NKBA | KBIS hosted an unforgettable breakfast celebration honoring the 2025 House Beautiful Next Wave Designers—a group of rising stars reshaping the future of residential design.
The event featured an inspiring conversation with:
Jerel Lake, Lake Haus Designs, and 2024 NKBA Design Competition Winner
Thom Filicia, acclaimed designer and NKBA Design Council founding member
Together, they explored how focusing on kitchen and bath expertise can enhance profitability and technical mastery, and how events like KBIS nurture both creativity and lasting professional relationships.
NKBA | KBIS proudly celebrated this year’s 15 honorees—each poised to make an indelible mark on the industry.
Looking Ahead to 2026
If 2025 demonstrated anything, it’s the unstoppable momentum of the kitchen and bath industry. As design evolves, technology advances, and global shifts reshape supply chains, NKBA | KBIS remains committed to serving as the trusted platform for education, business intelligence, connection, and growth.
We look forward to an even more impactful year ahead—and to celebrating the stories still to come.
A Year of Insight, Innovation & Industry Leadership
By NKBA Staff
In 2025, NKBA’s webinar lineup empowered kitchen and bath professionals with the knowledge, tools, and forward-thinking strategies needed to excel in a rapidly evolving marketplace. From accessibility and lighting to financial fluency and global trend forecasting, this year’s most popular sessions reflected the challenges, opportunities, and shifts shaping residential design.
Looking back, these five standout webinars defined the conversations of 2025—and set the tone for the year ahead.
Featured Presenter: Sarah Hartman, Business Development Manager, Moen
With one in five Americans expected to be 65 or older by 2030, demand for safer, more accessible homes continues to surge. This webinar explored the design, product, and planning strategies that support Aging-in-Place, highlighting practical solutions that elevate both safety and style.
Sarah Hartman drew from her extensive product expertise to help attendees understand how thoughtful planning, accessibility innovations, and new technology can transform the residential experience for older adults and people with disabilities.
Key Takeaways:
Why Aging-in-Place is a growing priority for homeowners and communities
How accessibility impacts health, safety, and long-term independence
Design preparations and products that support comfortable, future-ready living
Featured Presenter: Doug Walter, CMKBD, Architect & Industry Leader
Sponsored by Hardware Resources
As one of the most anticipated webinars of the year, this session provided a practical, “Cliff’s Notes” overview of NKBA’s updated Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines. Doug Walter offered valuable context on why specific standards changed, what sections were expanded, and how to apply the revised recommendations to real-world projects.
With clarity, humor, and four decades of expertise, Walter walked designers through the most notable updates—empowering them to design with confidence, reduce liability risk, and improve project outcomes.
Key Takeaways:
What’s new (and what’s gone) in the updated Guidelines
How to navigate the new structure with ease
The crucial difference between guidelines, codes, and best practices
Why mastering the Guidelines is essential for competition submission
Featured Presenter: Keith Clark, National Sales Specialist, Task Lighting | Hardware Resources
Sponsored by Hardware Resources
Lighting continues to be one of the most influential—and often misunderstood—elements of kitchen and bath design. This high-demand webinar gave designers a repeatable framework for planning and executing low-voltage lighting solutions from concept through installation.
Keith Clark demystified Kelvin temperatures, functional lighting types, product selection, and troubleshooting—making lighting more approachable and giving designers greater control over the client experience.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding the five core components of a low-voltage lighting plan
How tunable-white lighting simplifies decision-making
Why quality lighting products and support teams reduce stress, time, and errors
How consistent lighting methodology boosts project profitability
Featured Presenter: Elizabeth P. Lord-Levitt, CMKBD, Principal Designer
Budget conversations are often the most challenging part of any project—yet they are essential for trust and transparency. This webinar gave designers practical communication strategies to help clients understand investment levels, prioritize goals, and confidently move forward with realistic budgets.
Elizabeth Lord-Levitt shared proven scripts, questions, and exercises that demystify financial discussions and keep projects on track from the very first meeting.
Key Takeaways:
Approachable, effective ways to ask clients about budget limitations
Exercises to help clients understand value and prioritize scope
How to guide clients through trade-offs without compromising design integrity
Featured Presenter: Ruthanne Hanlon, National Color & Design Manager, PPG
Kicking off the year, this trend-defining webinar unpacked the global forces influencing style, mood, materials, and color direction for 2025 and beyond. Anchored by the theme Kinetic—a call for adaptability and forward movement—the session explored how consumer behavior, technological innovation, climate impacts, and cross-industry design shifts are reshaping residential and commercial aesthetics.
Ruthanne Hanlon offered a vivid look at four distinct trend stories, giving designers the insights they need to align their offerings with what consumers seek most today: personalization, emotional resonance, and resilient design.
Key Takeaways:
Four global color stories influencing residential and commercial segments
New materials and textures are shaping the next generation of design
How industries like automotive and consumer tech shape architectural preferences
Looking Ahead
From foundational standards to financial fluency and future-focused trends, NKBA’s 2025 webinars equipped thousands of professionals with the tools they need to excel in a changing market.
These top sessions highlight what mattered most this year—accessibility, clarity, innovation, lighting quality, and the desire to create spaces that adapt to people’s lives.
As we move into 2026, NKBA remains committed to delivering industry-leading education that informs, inspires, and elevates every corner of the design community.
Across three transformative days, NKBA’s new design hub at High Point Market became a destination for industry leaders, brands, and designers to see how kitchen, bath, lighting, and surfaces define the future of whole-home design. Learn more here.
All-stone kitchens are one option for a wellness-focused environment, and an NKBA Chapter President recently visited a NKBA Global Connect member in India specializing in this medium.
By Dianne M. Pogoda
It wasn’t quite a trip to Bedrock, but Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD, CID, President of NKBA’s South Florida Chapter, recently visited NKBA Global Connect member Magppie, a manufacturer in India that produces kitchen cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, and facias made entirely of stone.
Wellness-focused design is a major component of kitchens and baths around the world. In recent years, some wood-based products — especially those containing formaldehyde — and wood finishes have come under scrutiny for their toxins, off-gassing, and other potential health hazards. Magppie, with offices throughout India and an American outpost in Gainesville, FL, notes that stone checks the boxes: it is antibacterial, antimicrobial, bug-proof, heat-proof, fire-proof, not linked to carcinogens, and comes with a 25-year guarantee and three complimentary maintenance treatments annually.
Magppie produces Silverstone, a unique, patented stone material used to build its cabinetry, including boxes, doors, drawers, and other surfaces. Silverstone is made by infusing silver and copper particles inside the stone via nanotechnology. Through this process, the best qualities of silver and copper enter the stone, imparting antibacterial and antifungal qualities.
McCarthy, president of Stacy McCarthy Design in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, was introduced to Magppie by a colleague and said she was inspired by the company’s wellness-first focus. She first met with executives in Florida and subsequently trekked to its offices in India to tour the factory and cultivate a relationship as a brand ambassador and consultant.
“I felt like the most rewarding part was exchanging ideas with passionate creators who share a commitment to human conscientiousness,” she said. “They respect the health and well-being of the products that go into our homes to improve quality of life and not just the bottom line.”
McCarthy is currently president of NKBA’s South Florida Chapter, but she’s been an active NKBA volunteer since 2001. She has been a VFTI presenter and was one of the founders of the California Capital Chapter (formerly known as the Central California/Nevada Chapter). She also helped to establish the Sierra Nevada and San Joaquin Chapters. She has served as VP of Professional Development, VP of Academic Relations, and Secretary at various chapters, and she ran the local design competitions before they went digital, which involved organizing all the paper plans and coordinating with the Northern California Chapter. McCarthy volunteered with other chapters for their design competitions, helped on committees when she could, and was also a judge for the national 2024 Design Competition. She was recently honored by Kitchen & Bath Design News as a 2025 Innovator and by Luxury Guide as a 2025 Design Curator.
Here, she shares some highlights of her India adventure.
Do you think there is interest in Indian products in the North American kitchen and bath market?
There is genuine potential interest in Indian products in the North American luxury segment. The focus on wellness and sustainability will be very attractive. Other highlights are the quality and focus of Indian manufacturing, the sophistication of the science behind the products, and the commitment to the people who work at the factories.
Are Indian companies interested in exporting to North America?
Indian artistry is stunning and can fit many styles we see here. Their success will depend on Indian brands understanding the importance of compliance, consistency in the details, and building consumer trust. I believe the focus will be on brands’ desire to adapt to the U.S. market’s business models and the A&D community, as North American culture will quietly require integration into the market through product knowledge and education. Brand strategy centered on user experience will play a key role.
Did you meet with other Indian K&B companies, and did they have a positive outlook for the North American market?
Our host lined up a trip from Delhi to Gujarat, where we met with several companies with which they collaborate. I was also included in some design decisions. It was wonderful to be welcomed so warmly, and the people were so happy to share their innovative products. Each executive agreed they are looking forward to bringing more unique product solutions to the U.S. We had many business discussions, and the consensus was very positive. And yes, the political climate and tariffs were discussed, and the consensus was still very positive.
What is your key takeaway from your trip to India?
To stay curious and let the experience evolve and develop. One of my concerns was the lack of details in the itinerary, as this was quite a distance to travel. I wanted to make the most of every minute, but the plans were more fluid, and I discovered so much more by simply being patient. I used observation as my guide to create a unique brand strategy proposal for the meeting on our last day, which created excitement and vision.
Magppie will be showing at KBIS 2026, at Booth W174 in the West Hall of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Feb. 17 to 19. Learn more about the company here.
Higher Prices and Lower Expectations as Many Homeowners Remain Cautious
Image courtesy of GettyImages.
By NKBA I KBIS Editorial Staff
The kitchen & bath industry is facing significant challenges due to the impact of macroeconomic pressures led by tariffs and continued consumer uncertainty. This difficult environment for growth is reflected in the data and insights featured in the 3Q25 NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report.
The KBMI rated 50 out of 100 in 3Q25, down from 53 in Q2 – the third straight quarter of declining growth and the lowest survey result since 2Q20. Overall, the index indicates that K&B industry activity is generally flat.
Higher building material costs (44%), a byproduct of rising tariffs, were cited as the third most impactful constraint to growth after tariffs/trade issues and consumer uncertainty in the latest survey of 530 NKBA members across the design, building and remodeling, retail sales, and manufacturing segments. Nearly one-third of industry pros highlighted labor costs as a key impediment to growth.
Here are some additional insights into the current state of the K&B industry:
Decreased sales, downgraded expectations
Overall, K&B industry sales declined by -4% year-over-year during the last quarter. Price increases during 3Q25 mean that sales volumes were likely in even more negative territory.
K&B project cancellations and postponements remained elevated in 3Q25, indicating that many homeowners are generally cautious about embarking on major projects.
While kitchen and bath professionals expect sales conditions to improve over the next quarter, these ratings have declined from 2Q25. The Retail (-1.5%) and Building & Remodeling (-0.8%) sectors were most cautious, slightly downgrading their expectations for growth for the remainder of the year.
Tariffs mean higher prices and lower margins
Tariff cost concerns compelled K&B firms to increase prices by 4.6% YOY on average during 3Q25. Margins declined in last quarter, in large part due to the effects of tariffs – 28% of firms reported lower gross margins compared to the same quarter last year. Manufacturing and retail sales firms reported feeling the strongest margin pressure, relative to the rest of the K&B industry.
Luxury activity holds steady
The luxury market is still a source of stability for the industry. Luxury/premium consumers, less sensitive to higher project costs, outperformed slightly in the third quarter. While the value-oriented and mid-range consumer segments spent less in 3Q25, purchasing trends in the luxury segment were more positive.
Cautious optimism for 2026
Despite all of the factors working against growth, the industry outlook for 2026 still projects mid-single-digit growth, averaging 4.5%. Manufacturing (6.1%) and design (5.8%) firms, in particular, remain optimistic about expected resilience in premium consumer spending.
“We continue to closely monitor and assess the implications of tariff policies on the kitchen & bath industry,” said Bill Darcy, NKBA | KBIS global president & CEO. “We’re focused on providing our members with insights and tools to stay the course and maximize growth opportunities until conditions become more favorable.”
Download and read the full 3Q25 KBMI report for more insights and data on the state of the K&B market.
The 20,000-square-foot estate brings together 23 acclaimed interior design firms from across the country.
Design by ForbesMasters. Image courtesy of Leslee Mitchell.
By Nicholas Tamarin
This October, NKBA | KBIS joined FLOWER magazine and more than 60 leading sponsors to celebrate the opening of FLOWER’s highly anticipated Nashville Showhouse. Located in the city’s iconic Belle Meade neighborhood, the 20,000-square-foot estate brings together 23 acclaimed interior design firms from across the country, each transforming a room to reflect their signature style and creativity.
Open for tours through Sunday, October 26, the showhouse benefits The Next Door Recovery, a Nashville-based nonprofit supporting women in recovery—a cause close to FLOWER’s mission of beauty, purpose, and community. FLOWER founder and editor-in-chief Margot Shaw curated an impressive roster of industry talent, appointing Alexa Hampton as Honorary Chair; Corey Damen Jenkins as Design Chair; and Charlotte Moss and Ray Booth as Showhouse Ambassadors. Renowned floral designer Ariella Chezar served as Floral Chair, engaging local florists to create stunning arrangements that complement each designer’s vision. “It’s an interactive experience that brings the beauty of our brand to life and provides our audience with interior, entertaining, and floral ideas they can incorporate at home,” said Shaw.
Design by Susan Ferrier. Image courtesy of Leslee Mitchell.
The partnership between NKBA and FLOWER magazine continues this weekend at High Point Market, where FLOWER’s Editor at Large Karen Carroll will moderate a panel discussion on luxury kitchen design trends. The conversation—taking place Sunday, October 26 at 2 PM—will feature leading voices in design and manufacturing, including Alena Capra, CMKBD (Alena Capra Designs); Julee Ireland (Julee Ireland Design Studio); Briana Ryan (Miele); and Jonathan Krieger (Plain & Fancy, a division of Fabuwood).
The discussion will be held inside Broad Hall, home to the NKBA Design Hub, where attendees can explore immersive kitchen, bath, and whole-home design vignettes from top brands in appliances, surfaces, lighting, and outdoor living.Join NKBA | KBIS at Broad Hall during High Point Market, October 25–29, to experience the future of luxury design and discover how kitchen and bath innovation is shaping the modern home.
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,” theHarvard 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.
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.
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.”
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.
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
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.”
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.
Asous 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.
