5 Q’s With NKBA Prairie Provinces Chapter Communications Chair Candace Rudd.
By Nicholas Tamarin
Candace Rudd is the General Manager of Two30Nine by Decor, a division of Decor Cabinets with locations in Winnipeg and Morden, Manitoba. Two30Nine specializes in delivering personalized, high-quality design through bespoke cabinetry solutions that elevate how clients live, work, and unwind. Known for its thoughtful, design-forward approach, her team works across a wide range of residential projects.
With a career in the kitchen and bath industry that began in 2005, Rudd brings over two decades of experience and a passion for creative problem-solving to every project. She thrives on the unique challenges each space presents and is known for her collaborative, client-centered design process. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes not only design excellence but also mentorship and team development.
As a Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer (CMKBD), Rudd demonstrates a deep commitment to professional growth and industry standards. She currently serves as Communications Chair for the NKBA Prairie Provinces Chapter, where she helps build community, promote knowledge sharing, and support emerging design professionals. We asked Rudd to share her thoughts on NKBA Certification.
How has earning your CMKBD credential impacted your career opportunities or professional credibility within the kitchen and bath industry?
Earning my Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer designation was both a milestone and a catalyst for continued growth. It’s more than just a credential—it serves as a reminder of the knowledge, experience, and dedication I’ve poured into my career.
The CMKBD has elevated my visibility in the industry and opened doors to opportunities I may not have otherwise had, such as collaborating with other professionals through programs like NKBA’s Women2Women and Voices from the Industry, as well as attracting more complex and rewarding projects. Whether I’m meeting with clients, collaborating with builders, or working alongside fellow designers, it communicates that I’ve met the highest standards in our profession.
In what ways has the CMKBD certification challenged you to grow personally or professionally—whether through continued learning, leadership, or project complexity?
The path to becoming a CMKBD wasn’t just about achieving a final result. It inspired me to stay sharp, keep learning, and expand my leadership within the industry. That growth has led me to serve as a chapter officer for the past two years and take part in several judging opportunities with both the NKBA and CHBA.
It has reinforced that even with years of experience, there’s always room to grow, to be inspired by the work of others, and that curiosity and a willingness to explore new approaches are just as essential as technical skill.
What did the journey to becoming a CMKBD teach you about yourself as a designer?
It reminded me how much I value the why behind what I do. For me, it’s not just about creating beautiful spaces, it’s about designing with purpose, function, and longevity in mind.
The process strengthened my dedication to intentional, user-focused design and revealed that true proficiency comes from balancing experience with an openness to learning and evolving.
How does the specialty badge complement your CMKBD certification?
The NKBA specialty badge program has been a great complement to my certification. In today’s digital landscape, it allows me to clearly share and validate my credentials in specific areas that are important to my client base.
It helps clients and collaborators quickly understand some of the broad subject matter that the CMKBD designation encompasses and why it carries weight.
Since you have contributed greatly to the K&B design industry in your career, please let us know how the specialty badge program has assisted you in it?
Looking back, I’m proud not only of the work I’ve done but also of the role I’ve played in supporting the careers of those I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside. The specialty badge program has made it easier for new designers to start their education journey with NKBA and share their progress in a meaningful and modern way, while hopefully inspiring them to pursue their own certifications down the line.
It’s another tool that helps my team stand out, tell our story, and reinforce our commitment to thoughtful, professional design.To learn more about NKBA Certifications please visit nkba.org/certifications.
