Ryan Lance – NKBA

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A Whole New World at the NKBA Global Connect Lounge

South Hall is home to the Global Connect Lounge and kiosks, international pavilions, and international exhibitors, many new to North America.
NKBA | KBIS Global Connect Pavilion at KBIS 2024. Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

The NKBA Global Connect International Hub in the Las Vegas Convention Centerโ€™s South Hall at KBIS is anchored by the Global Connect Lounge (SL1113) and Kiosks, and surrounded by many international pavilions and Global Connect member companies exhibiting at the show.

Not only is the Lounge a great place for international brands to connect with North American design, distribution, and sales professionals, it also will feature three days of informative programming, including International Brand Spotlight presentations, cocktail and breakfast events, and roundtable luncheons. Visitors will meet brands from all over the world, many of which are new to KBIS or to North America entirely. Fascinating presentations and panel discussions will explore the dynamics of the North American marketplace, how to establish a business presence in the market, and how to engage with potential customers.

Don’t Miss the Latest K&B Products and Trends at KBIS 2025 โ€” Register Today!

Here’s a preview of some of the exciting programming in the NKBA Global Connect Lounge.

Tuesday, February 25

10 to 11 am: NKBA Global Connect Brand Spotlights

Global Connect Advisor LuAnn Nigara, principal of the award-winning Window Works firm, host of the podcast โ€œA Well-Designed Business,โ€ and owner of LuAnn Nigara Inc. consultancy, hosts this series of rapid-fire presentations by new-to-KBIS international brands. These firms will tell their stories and present their innovative products to the North American market, followed by a brief Q&A session. 

Click here to RSVP >

12 noon to 1 pm: NKBA Global Connect Panel Discussion

โ€œBuilding Your Brand in the North American Marketโ€

Join Heather Shannon, SVP NKBA Marketing and Communications as she explores the topic of brand building in North America with Erik Perez, principal of HelloPR Group, Sherry Qualls, consultant M2 Consulting Group and Veronika Miller, founder of Designhounds and M2 Consulting Group.  Learn how to stand out, connect with the right audiences and make your mark.

Click here to RSVP >

Wednesday, Feb. 26

10 to 11 am: NKBA Global Connect Brand Spotlights

Hosted by Greg Rohl, Global Connect Advisor and principal of The Rohl Model. New-to-KBIS brands will participate in a series of rapid-fire presentations, presenting innovative products and telling their stories to North American buyers, designers, showroom and distribution executives, followed by a brief Q&A session.

Click here to RSVP >

NKBA | KBIS Global Connect Pavilion at KBIS 2024. Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

12 noon to 1 pm: NKBA Global Connect Panel Discussion 

โ€œDistribution and Sales Options: Go-to-Market Strategies in North Americaโ€

This panel discussion is designed for international brands that want to learn more about sales, distribution, and showroom partner strategies in North America. Panel participants include leading North American kitchen and bath showrooms, dealers and distributors in conversation with NKBA Global Connect consultant Sherry Qualls.

Click here to RSVP >

1:30 to 2:30 pm: “The Bright Future of Design: Opportunities Beyond Business As Usual”

One of the most common business models for designers is to charge design fees and markups but in a world that is rife with e-commerce, online and even AI based design services and purchasing options, design pros may wonder if their opportunities are dwindling. Designhounds Founder and CEO of M2 Consulting Group in conversation with Robin Rigby Fisher CMKBD, CAPS, CLIPPS, Department Chair at Portland Community College, will host a designer and student roundtable discussion to explore the importance of diversified sourcing and disruptive business models to continue on a successful and inspiring career path.

Click here to RSVP >

3 to 4 pm: “Hit Me with Your Best Schottโ€ , Bourbon Tasting with SCHOTT CERAN

Celebrate the craftsmanship and American home of Germanyโ€™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. Attendees will be registered to win premium Kentucky Bourbon along with special SCHOTT shot glasses.

Click here to RSVP >

Thursday, Feb. 27

10 to 11:30 am: SICAM Breakfast 

โ€œThe Ingredients Insideโ€

Join Carolina Giobbi, co-founder of Expo SICAM, Kenn Busch, journalist and founder of Material Intelligence and Eric Marshall, principal of the Closet Training Institute for breakfast and a trends presentation on the technologies and materials coming out of Italy, Spain, Germany and other International manufacturing hubs.  The ingredients inside make the finished products stronger, smarter and more sustainable.

Click here to RSVP >

Global Connect on the NEXT Stage

Global Connect will also have a presence on the KBIS NEXT Stage, Booth #7185 in South Hall, discussing critical issues of worldwide sustainability and conservation in design and building.

On Tuesday at 1:30 pm, join Bill Darcy, Global President and CEO of NKBA, and Tom Reynolds, CEO of Britainโ€™s Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), as they discuss โ€œThe Windsor Declaration: Driving Global Change.โ€ Two of the most serious challenges facing the world today are water scarcity and antimicrobial resistance. In this session, executives will explore the transformative role of water-efficient technologies, improved hygiene solutions, and sustainable practices in addressing these crises. Learn how the Windsor Declaration is uniting manufacturers, trade associations, and certification bodies to inspire systemic change and lead the way toward a more sustainable future.

Immediately following at 2 pm, a panel will tackle โ€œEuropean Kitchen Furniture. Ecodesign for Sustainable Products: What it is, Why it Matters and How itโ€™s Different.โ€ North American consumers crave sustainably produced products with cleaner, simpler lines for their homes. Experts Kenn Busch, founder of Material Intelligence; Jan Kurth, CEO of the Association of the German Furniture Industry; Dwayne Lusk, Principal of Kitchen Logistics; Jeremy Parcels, principal designer at Parcels Design Studio, and Alina Selbach, head of Business for TรœV Rheinland LGA Products GmbH, will discuss multifunctional, highly efficient, modular components that provide flexibility and convenience โ€” all produced using sustainable materials and manufacturing methods. Learn why this new, sustainable category is critical to growth in coming years.

– – –

The NKBA Global Connect business development program offers important benefits to international companies that want to explore ways to break into the North American market. Members have access to NKBA | KBISโ€™ extensive market research covering key topics from overall and category-specific design trends to economic data, market outlooks, quarterly reports on the current state of the industry, and much more, plus access to a team of expert Global Connect Advisors for detailed information about the nuances, regulations, compliance, distribution, and other important aspects of doing business in North America. More info on the program may be found at nkba.org/global-connect-landing/.

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Five Questions Withโ€ฆ Sustainability Expert Kenn Busch

Busch, a climate specialist and an NKBA Global Connect Advisor, will headline the new Materials Pavilion at KBIS.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

In an effort to drive awareness and turn it into action on sustainability and climate-friendly sourcing and practices, NKBA | KBIS, along with sustainability expert Kenn Busch, will introduce a Materials Pavilion at KBIS 2025, Feb. 25 to 27.

Busch, founder of the Material Intelligence platform and Climate Positive NOW, is spearheading the programming and content for the pavilion, at the Material Intelligence Booth SL7196, in the South Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Co-exhibitors include American Renolit Corp., Profol, Riken USA Corp., Stevens Industries Inc., and Uniboard.

Don’t Miss the Latest K&B Products and Trends at KBIS 2025 โ€” Register Today!

Besides his expertise in sustainable products and practices for the building industry, Busch is a journalist and presenter of certified CEUs to the design, woodworking, and furniture sectors. Heโ€™s been writing about the furniture industry since 1990, and started developing CEUs for architects and designers using his materials and production experience in the early 2000s.

โ€œAs I started to actually present and deliver CEUs to A&D audiences, I quickly realized that they would benefit from a more focused, third-party resource that approached materials education in a format that followed the kinds of questions they would always ask,โ€ Busch related. โ€œThatโ€™s how Material Intelligence came about, as a website, as an editorial service, and as a content producer for suppliers.โ€

When sustainability began emerging as a key element in specification about 15 years ago, Buschโ€™s research into the wood products industry revealed something he found โ€œincredible.โ€

โ€œThe natural properties of wood make it the only material that stores so much naturally captured carbon that it more than offsets carbon released by all of the processes that convert trees into cabinets,โ€ he explained. โ€œWood products are carbon-negative, or in more modern terms, climate-positive. Trees absorb CO2 as they grow, and we know that the chemical makeup of wood products, by weight, is 50 percent naturally captured carbon. The average North American kitchen uses about 1,200 lbs. of wood, so we know that itโ€™s storing about 600 lbs. of carbon. Experts estimate that this is about 200 lbs. more carbon than we release into the atmosphere as we harvest trees, convert them into lumber and engineered wood, and use that wood to build cabinetry.โ€

He also found that the wood industry was not telling this story effectively to the industry or consumers, and this inspired him to develop a compelling story for the wood products industry, that its materials are indeed climate positive.

This led to him founding Climate Positive NOW, an educational messaging project inspired by a combination of research into the sustainability of architectural materials, and decades of experience delivering educational content to interior designers and architects. The Materials Pavilion offers an opportunity for architects, designers, and other specifiers to learn about, touch, feel, and experience the materials for themselves.

Busch, who is also an NKBA Global Connect Advisor, will be presenting at the Global Connect Lounge as well as moderating a panel on the KBIS NEXT Stage. He aims to engage attendees and learn about their design challenges, share details on the samples heโ€™s showing, tell them the Material Intelligence sustainability story, and ask them for feedback on how to do better.

He discussed the goals of the Materials Pavilion at KBIS and the current state of sustainability in the U.S.

NKBA: What is the main concept behind the Materials Pavilion at KBIS?

Kenn Busch: Our goal is to show KBIS attendees some of the latest and greatest material innovations that provide more sustainable options for kitchens, baths, and closets. New designs, new surface materials, better durability, and less harm to the environment โ€” all features that KBIS attendees and NKBA members say theyโ€™re looking for.

It’s important that we are showing all of these materials together with our partner Northern Contours, a leading cabinet door and component supplier. Theyโ€™re launching a line of more sustainable products at this show and are ready to take the lead on educating designers and cabinet makers on the better choices that are now available in North America. Seeing the materials on their own is one thing, but seeing how they look on finished components helps the industry better visualize how they can use them on their own products and projects.

NKBA: What do you hope to accomplish at KBIS? What programming will you be presenting?

Kenn Busch: Accomplish? Saving the world! Our goal is to plant a flag at this all-important show for materials and sustainability education, because this industry has the power to move the needle on sustainability. But to do that, we need to frame the conversation in a way that is educational, inspirational, and easy to share.

We hope to leave visitors with a better understanding of the positive impacts of wood and engineered wood products. We have the materials, we have the technology, we have the designs, and we can get there without starting overโ€ฆwhat weโ€™re already doing is awesome. We just have to do more of it.

NKBA: Where is the U.S./North American market in terms of sustainability, and where are we in comparison to Europe or other international markets?

Kenn Busch: We are a little bit behind these other markets. Europe has an edge on the logistics necessary to run effective recycling programs. The cultural zeitgeist is also more focused on sustainability, especially in Germany and in Scandinavian countries. Because of this, Iโ€™ve seen more sustainable material options become the industry standard more quickly than in North America, even when they cost a bit more. Europeans demand more from their โ€œkitchen furniture,โ€ and are also accustomed to spending a bit more for it. That equation includes expectations of high quality, less environmental impact, and increased functionality. 

NKBA: What steps can we take to achieve our sustainability goals?

Kenn Busch: Itโ€™s about doing a better job of communicating where weโ€™re at now, what we can expect to achieve in the future, and bringing designers and consumers along on this journey. Itโ€™s important to first agree on what we mean by sustainability. In my extensive work with designers and architects, Iโ€™ve learned that there are many different ways to frame this topic, which might better be expressed under the umbrella of โ€œhealth and wellness.โ€

These include:

โ€ข   The use of virgin or recycled raw materials

โ€ข   Impacts on ecosystems

โ€ข   Packaging, transportation

โ€ข   Ease of manufacturing, installation

โ€ข   Replacement of less sustainable materials

โ€ข   Durability, longevity, ease of care/maintenance

โ€ข   Carbon offsets and sequestration

โ€ข ย  Circularity/end-of-life

NKBA: What specifically does this mean for K&B?

Kenn Busch: This is a daunting task, because we work mostly with wood, the only construction material that sequesters more carbon than is released in its production and use. It requires less energy to manufacture than any other material, itโ€™s infinitely renewable, and it can be recycled. I believe we should begin with carbon footprint, since this is the only widely used science-based metric that allows us to compare different material options. So, Iโ€™d say the first step and biggest challenge in becoming a more sustainable industry is to share the climate-positive story of wood products โ€” throughout the entire value chain, from lumber companies to panel producers to cabinet maker to designers โ€” and to begin to move away from design and building materials that have negative impacts on the climate. This also helps consumers understand that theyโ€™re part of moving the needle. A healthy cabinet industry supports healthy forests, and healthy forests are good for everyone.

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NKBA Announces 2025 National Committee Members

Following the recent announcement of its 2025 Board of Directors, NKBA also disclosed the members of its additional national volunteer committees โ€“ 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 โ€“ 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 โ€“ 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 KBISโ€™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 NKBAโ€™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 โ€“ 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 โ€“ Brand Experience
GE Appliances a Haier Company
Wellington, FL

Andrew Shead
Marketing and Sales Manager
True Residential
Oโ€™Fallon, MO

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

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 โ€“ 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.

โ€œIndustry 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,โ€ said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO, NKBA | KBIS. โ€œItโ€™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.โ€

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

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. Thatโ€™s long been the promise of culinary gadgetry. Theyโ€™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 youโ€™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. Theyโ€™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 Forkย 

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. Theyโ€™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. Theyโ€™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!ย 

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 youโ€™ve got a showroom that wows, educates, and inspires, nowโ€™s your chance to step into the spotlight. The deadline to enter? November 3, 2024.

Whatโ€™s at stake? The winners will be honored on the grand stage at the Design & Industry Awards in Las Vegas on February 24, 2025 โ€” 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 youโ€™ve got to act fastโ€”submissions close on November 3, 2024 at 11:59 PM. Donโ€™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 industryโ€™s finest.

Don’t Wait โ€” 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

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.

โ€œLike our partners at NKBA, Signature Kitchen Suite believes in the power of design to inspire and innovate,โ€ said Donille Perrone, Senior Brand Manager for SKS. โ€œWe 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.โ€

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 Villaseรฑor, 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 โ€œButterflyโ€ 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 withโ€ฆ Megan Kyper

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 โ€” interior design โ€” 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 โ€” but it still wasnโ€™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.

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

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 โ€” everything she needed to succeed in real-life client  situations.

โ€œYou learn about different products that you maybe otherwise wouldn’t have heard of,โ€ she added. โ€œIt’s important in the kitchen and bath industry โ€” or any profession, really โ€” 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.โ€

The Pennsylvania native, who is a member of NKBAโ€™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 โ€” 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 whatโ€™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 theyโ€™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, โ€˜Why not?โ€ 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 โ€” on my own time โ€” 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 nowโ€ฆso 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, thereโ€™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?

Whatโ€™s next for you professionally?

I am currently studying for NKBAโ€™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!

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 โ€” so register early to secure your free Expo pass! Youโ€™ll enjoy access to North Americaโ€™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 Buildersโ€™ 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 showโ€™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 showโ€™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 โ€” 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 industryโ€™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 Trendsย ย 

New Geographic Insights from the NKBA | KBIS Q2 2024 Kitchen & Bath Market Index Reportย 
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 regionalย 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:

โ€œMissing Middleโ€ on the West Coast

California firms surveyed repeated the theme of a bifurcated market โ€“ 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 โ€“ 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.

โ€œWhile market conditions and trends vary from region to region, there are some consistent themes that will probably come as no surprise to industry professionals,โ€ said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO, NKBA | KBIS. โ€œMany 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.โ€

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

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: itโ€™s about getting the right light in the right place. The โ€œright lightโ€ provides at least 50 footcandles on the work surface, with older homeowners needing 100 footcandles or more. The โ€œright placeโ€ is directly above the work surface, so homeowners are not working in their own shadow.

Factor in Flexibility to Meet Clientsโ€™ Needs, Now and into the Future

Homeowners have different needs and preferences, which means itโ€™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 homeownersโ€™ 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, 2โ€-3โ€ integrated LEDS with strong lumens and better color temperature. โ€œRecessed can gridsโ€ 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 โ€“ and Prioritize โ€“ Great Lighting

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 hasnโ€™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.

Don’t Miss the Latest K&B Products and Trends at KBIS 2025 โ€” Register 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 โ€“ 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. Itโ€™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 projectโ€™s success. The pros recommend finding different ways to show clients how impactful good โ€“ and bad โ€“ 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 clientโ€™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 โ€“ 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 itโ€™s best to try to account for these โ€œaudiblesโ€ 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 โ€œlocked inโ€ can have significant consequences.

Build Partnerships

Itโ€™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

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, weโ€™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 Suzieโ€™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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EuroCucina: NKBA | KBIS Salone del Mobile Welcome Reception

A baroque palace played host to an exclusive evening event for industry leaders.
From left to right, NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy, Kerrie Kelly, FASID, CEO + Creative Director at Kerrie Kelly Design Lab, Nicola Bertazzoni, COO Bertazzoni Group, Italy & CEO Bertazzoni North America Inc. and Paolo Bertazzoni, CEO of Bertazzoni.

By Elisa Fernรกndez-Arias

Last month, as part of its visit to EuroCucina 2024 and partner event FTK, NKBA | KBIS held a networking and cocktail event in Kohlerโ€™s Milan show space, Palazzo del Senato, a historic Baroque palace located in the heart of the city. It was an impressive atmosphere, with attendees entering through a Kohler installation, Terminal 02, a modern architectural installation the brand created in collaboration with designer and artist Samuel Ross, made of bright orange pipes carrying water juxtaposed with the old-style building, symbolizing the classic journey of water The area also featured a reimagining of the Kohlerโ€™s Eirโ„ข smart toilet, a brutalist bold form designed by Ross and the team at his studio SR_A that is only available in a limited 99 edition.

After passing through the installation, the wide range of attendees were given the opportunity to network with other industry leaders. From the associationโ€™s team, NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy and NKBA | KBIS Chief Global Relations Officer Suzie Williford were present. Kerrie Kelly, FASID, CEO + Creative Director at Kerrie Kelly Design Lab and NKBA | KBIS 2024 Board of Directors Secretary/Treasurer, along with Nicola Bertazzoni, COO Bertazzoni Group, Italy & CEO Bertazzoni North America Inc. and NKBA | KBIS 2024 Board Member were also in attendance.

The NKBA | KBIS EuroCucina tour was made possible because of the support of Bertazzoni and Kohler, and Kohler is a proud sponsor of the NKBA | KBIS Networking and Cocktail Event.

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Toni Sabatinoโ€™s Favorite Finds: EuroCucina

The designer shared her top picks from the innovative kitchen products event.

By Elisa Fernรกndez-Arias

As part of NKBA | KBISโ€™ trip to Eurocucina 2024 and partner event FTK (Technology for the Kitchen) held in Milan, Italy, April 16 – 21, the association asked select designers in attendance about their preferred brands and products. Toni Sabatino, AKBD, of Toni Sabatino Style, shared highlights from the show and her favorite picks.

โ€œI loved the entire show!โ€ Sabatino said. โ€œSalone Del Mobile presented life as art! Integrated lighting and texture and artist collaborations made for some exciting products in kitchen and bath. Wellness and sustainability were a big part of the product focus and recycled materials are being used more than ever in the manufacturing process. I am feeling very inspired!โ€

The designer’s top finds ranged from cabinetry solutions to plumbing fixtures to an impressive kitchen island.

  1. Efficient Storage Solutions from Various Brands
The Cucina LUBE booth at EuroCucina. Image courtesy of Toni Sabatino.

Sabatino chose Cucine LUBE as one of her top choices from the event for its whole home integrated modular cabinetry solutions with integrated lighting and hidden storage. She also pointed to Febal Casaโ€™s modular cabinetry with sculptural fronts as one of her favorites from the event.

According to the designer, these brands, along with bulthaup, Poggenpohl and schรผller., featured cabinetry offerings, โ€œall proposing beautiful storage solutions for the whole home that were both streamlined and detailed. The mix of closed storage and open shelving created a clean but personal backdrop for easy living. The luxury of simplicity was evident with innovative use of sliding doors and pockets to create a place for everything, even compost! Additionally, the thoughtful placement and integration of appliances created ease of use for people of all ages and abilities.โ€

She added, โ€œMiele showed new finishes and both vertical and horizontal โ€˜stackingโ€™ capabilities for more creative placement and design options. Interestingly, while the shapes may be minimalistic, the warm nature inspired finishes, textures and sculptural door offerings create a sense of intimacy and luxury that we are ready to embrace in our market.โ€

  1. Plumbing fixtures from GRAFF
Image courtesy of Toni Sabatino.

Another brand Sabatino highlighted was GRAFF, for its โ€œmix and match shower heads and lighting, for an amazing showering experience.โ€

  1. Appliance Details from Bertazzoni
Image courtesy of Toni Sabatino.

The designer was also impressed by Bertazzoniโ€™s โ€œnew warm metallic finishes and textures used to create a more intimate feel, resulting in artful appliances.โ€

  1. Chandelier Shower Head from Kohler
Image courtesy of NKBA | KBIS.

Additionally, Sabatino spotlighted this product from Kohler, which includes not only the design itself but also music that plays while one is showering. โ€œThe shower head was presented by Kohler to give the user a thoughtful experience that evokes beauty,โ€ said the designer.

  1. Kitchen Island from OFFICINE GULLO
Image courtesy of Toni Sabatino.

Another standout product for Sabatino was OFFICINE GULLOโ€™s metal island design, which she described as โ€œglorious.โ€

An award winning kitchen designer, Toni Sabatino started out in the K&B industry working with a kitchen cabinet manufacturer, and has since added more than 1,000 kitchens to her portfolio, became CLIPP-certified and is a past Star Award winning President of the NKBA Manhattan Chapter.