NKBA | KBIS gives the low down on what’s up with the standards shaping the future.
By Nicholas Tamarin
As sustainability becomes a driving force in home design, professionals in the kitchen and bath industry must stay informed about the key certifications shaping the future. Programs like LEED, WELL, and other sustainability standards are setting benchmarks for environmentally responsible, health-conscious design choices.
By incorporating these principles into design and product selection, professionals can create spaces that are not only stylish and functional but also healthier and more environmentally responsible, driving positive change in sustainable design and providing clients with kitchens and bathrooms that support well-being and environmental stewardship. Let’s take a look:
LEED Certification: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
One of the most recognized sustainability standards, LEED focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-friendly materials. Kitchen and bath professionals can incorporate LEED principles by selecting Energy Star-certified appliances, using low-VOC finishes and adhesives, and integrating water-saving fixtures like low-flow faucets and high-efficiency toilets.
WELL Certification: Prioritizing Human Health and Wellness
Unlike LEED, which emphasizes environmental impact, WELL Certification focuses on health and well-being in built environments. “Health begins at home, because that’s where we spend most of our lives,” says Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO of the International WELL Building Institute. “Kitchens and bathrooms, in particular, offer a powerful opportunity to reimagine the ways in which we nourish ourselves and our families and practice daily self-care.”
WELL principles include ensuring optimal air and water quality, utilizing non-toxic materials, and enhancing natural and artificial lighting designs to improve well-being. IWBI introduced the WELL for Residential framework in 2024, a globally applicable standard for homes prioritizing well-being. As Hodgdon notes, the framework includes evidence-based strategies across 10 concepts: Air, Water, Nourishment, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Light, Sound, Materials, Mind, and Community.
Other Key Sustainability Certifications
Beyond LEED and WELL, several other certifications guide sustainable kitchen and bath design: WaterSense (EPA), GreenGuard, Cradle to Cradle, and FSC Certification. For kitchen and bath professionals, understanding and applying these sustainability certifications is essential for meeting growing consumer demand, enhancing home efficiency and long-term value, and staying ahead of industry regulations and green building trends.
For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.
