The NKBA Chapter Star Award nominee reflects on her design journey, her commitment to community, and the philosophy that drives her Long Beach–based boutique firm.
By NKBA Staff
Rose Ott, AKBD, is the founder of Rose Ott Design, a boutique kitchen and bath design firm established in 2003 in Long Beach, New York. Known for her thoughtful, wellness-driven approach, Ott believes the kitchen is the heart of the home—and that investing in this space is essential to supporting the well-being of the families who live there. Her work blends color, proportion, and spatial harmony to create joyful, deeply personal environments.
We chatted with Ott about her path into design, her community-driven philosophy, and what’s next in her journey as a lifelong learner and advocate for the next generation.
Tell us about your background and the story behind your firm.
I launched Rose Ott Design around 2003, focusing on expert kitchen and bath design. I’ve always believed the kitchen is the family’s most meaningful gathering place, so transforming that space is more than a renovation—it’s an investment in daily happiness.
My mission has always been to improve well-being through thoughtful design. I want to harmonize color, space, and flow so the environment truly supports the people living in it. Every project becomes an opportunity to create something personal, functional, and uplifting.
How did you get started in design? What led you specifically to kitchen and bath work?
When I was little, I was constantly rearranging my parents’ house—moving furniture, shifting accessories, trying to make things feel “right.” I didn’t know it then, but that was the beginning.
My path wasn’t linear. I earned a degree in fine arts and graphic design, worked in graphics and fashion, and even painted faux finishes and murals. Each role taught me something about texture, color, and how environments communicate.
Once my children were young, it all clicked: these were all different expressions of the same passion—creating beautiful spaces. I went back to school for interior design and finally put a name to the instinct that started when I was dragging the family sofa across the living room.
You’re passionate about giving back. How does that influence your work and your involvement in the community?
Community service is one of my core values—it’s not a philosophy; it’s an action.
One organization especially close to my heart is God’s Love We Deliver in New York City. I regularly organize volunteer days with the NKBA Manhattan Chapter to prepare medically tailored meals for people living with severe illnesses. It’s humbling and grounding. When you’re packing meals, you’re not just doing a task—you’re participating in an act of care. It mirrors my design mission: improving well-being through essentials.
I’m also committed to supporting the next generation, especially those entering the skilled trades. Securing a grant through NAHB for the Skilled Labor Career Day at the High School of Fashion Industries was a proud moment. These trades—plumbing, carpentry, cabinetry—bring our designs to life. They deserve visibility, respect, and support.
Showing students that these careers offer dignity, independence, and stability is incredibly meaningful. Whether through nourishment or opportunity, giving back has always been the most fulfilling work I do.
What inspires you most?
My kids inspire me every single day. Watching them grow into thoughtful, purposeful adults is the most rewarding experience of my life. They embody the qualities I strive to bring to every design: intention, creativity, and integrity.
And now, my new granddaughter has expanded that inspiration tenfold. Seeing the world through her eyes reinforces my belief that a home must be a sanctuary—a safe, joyful, well-designed place where memories begin and lives take shape.
My family is my driving force. They remind me why creating nurturing, uplifting spaces matters so much.
What’s next for you?
I’m a lifelong learner, and that commitment guides the next chapter of my career. I plan to continue pursuing new certifications, exploring advances in kitchen and bath technology, and studying sustainable materials.
Staying curious ensures that I can offer clients the most innovative, responsible, and high-quality solutions possible. Growth isn’t optional in this industry—it’s essential.
