By NKBA Staff
Company News
Gaggenau Updates Steam Oven: As part of its new Expressive Series, Gaggenau has updated its Combi-Steam oven. It offers 14 heating methods, including sous-vide at controlled low temperatures, a new Keep Warm mode, and a full-surface hidden broiler that pairs with steam functions. Enhancements also include an animated “wizard” to guide homeowners through features, as well as a door that opens automatically at the end of the cooking process to prevent burning or overcooking. An integrated cartridge-based cleaning system simplifies maintenance, ensuring longevity and purity of performance. The Combi-Steam oven will be available late this year. Learn more about the Expressive Series here.
GEA Sets “Blue Wave” Record: GE Appliances’ 2025 Blue Wave volunteer initiative drew a record number of employees for its corporate-wide day of service last month. Nearly 1,000 volunteers from offices, plants, and field locations across the United States partnered with local nonprofits to address impactful community projects. These included combating food insecurity, environmental cleanups at public spaces, adapting mechanical toys for children with physical limitations, and refreshing museums and schools with painting, deep cleaning, and staff/teacher training on projects emphasizing the basics of “making” and STEM education. KBB has the story.
That’s a Lot of Wine: True Residential is introducing 36-inch wine columns at KBIS 2026. The larger units store more than 150 bottles and complement the current 24-inch, 30-inch, and under-counter models. Wine preservation features include two independent zones for temperature and humidity control, TruLumina® LED lighting with 14 color options, and full-extension, soft-close wine racks that prevent vibration. Hardware and finishes are available in True’s full range of custom options available through the Build Your True program, including its newest: olive. More info here.
Wood-Mode Returns to KBIS: After a 10-year hiatus, Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry is returning to KBIS for the 2026 edition in Orlando, Feb. 17 to 19. The company, a leading manufacturer of luxury cabinetry, is co-locating with custom hardware manufacturer Stoll Industries, one of its strategic partners, in Booth S23019 in the South Hall of the Orange County Convention Center. The company said it has been building its strategic process over the past six years, investing significantly in manufacturing and sustainability upgrades, and dedicating resources to ensuring top product quality and customer experience, and that it’s now time to reach the industry at KBIS again. More info on Wood-Mode here.
Chapter Updates
Fabuwood Tour With Northern NJ: Join the Northern New Jersey Chapter for a two-part November event on Nov. 11. The morning begins at 10:30 am at Fabuwood’s state-of-the-art cabinetry facility at 69 Blanchard Street in Newark, and includes a factory tour, lunch, and presentation. This portion of the day is complimentary, but registration is required since space is limited. This will be followed by the monthly chapter meeting at Appliance Place, 2590 US 22, Scotch Plains, NJ, starting with the board meeting (all members invited) at 4:30. Enjoy networking, light bites, cocktails, and door prizes while meeting appliance manufacturing partners. Cost is $25 per person for the evening meeting. Registration here.
Design Awards in New England: The Northern New England Chapter will celebrate winners of its yearly design competition at Design Awards Ceremony 2025 on Nov. 19, 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at Splash Spritzo, 244 Needham Street, Newton, MA. The banquet is sponsored by Kohler and LX Hausys and registration is $35. More info here.
Appreciation and Awards in NoCal: The California Capital Chapter is hosting its annual Member Appreciation and Awards Gala on Nov. 21, 5:30 pm, at SEQUOIA at the Cannery, 1601 Alhambra Boulevard in Sacramento. Celebrate the talent and dedication within the chapter, from designer awards to volunteers, committee members and rising student stars. Registration is $100 per person or $750 for a table of 8 and includes dinner, drinks, awards, raffles, and a few surprises. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Holiday Toy Drive to spread joy for the season. More detail here.
Holiday Cheer with Mid Atlantic: The Mid Atlantic Chapter is hosting its annual holiday party Dec. 4 from 5 to 8 pm at Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, 4050 S 26th Street, Ste. 100, in Philadelphia. Celebrate the season with delicious bites and drinks, in collaboration with ASID Pennsylvania East, IFDA Philadelphia Chapter, and AAPI Design Alliance. Guests will enjoy wreath decorating, a bourbon tasting, a wine tasting by Red Brick Winery, a photo booth, and more. Admission is free, with attendees asked to bring a gift from the Amazon Wish List. More details here.
