By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

SKS Wins Time Innovation Honor: Luxury appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite’s 30-inch Transitional Series Combi Wall Oven with AI-enabled cooking technology has been named to TIME magazine’s annual Best Inventions list, honoring 200 groundbreaking, transformative innovations. The oven features advanced Gourmet AI™ technology, offering intelligent recipe suggestions and cooking guidance through the LG ThinQ® app, as well as a built-in HD camera, allowing users to monitor and share their cooking in real-time and create time-lapse videos for an interactive cooking experience. The oven has steam-combi convection, steam sous vide and air frying functions. TIME’s editors describe the 2024 list as showcasing “groundbreaking inventions that are changing how we live, work, play, and think about what’s possible.” More on SKS here.

Lutron Opens Toronto Studio: Lutron Electronics has opened a 2,200-square-foot design studio in Toronto’s Queens Quay neighborhood. It is the first of its kind in Canada and showcases the brand’s architectural lighting, window shades and intuitive controls. It is primarily designed to support the trade, but Lutron anticipates the space will become a hub for creative events and gatherings. KBB has the story.

Chapter Updates

Happy Holidays in Minnesota: The Minnesota State Chapter will host its annual holiday party on Dec. 5, from 5 to 7 pm, at event sponsor All Inc., 185 Plato Blvd. West in St. Paul. Enjoy a festive evening with delicious bites, fun prizes, and great company. There is no cost to members. Register here.

Ho! Ho! Ho! in Alabama: Join the Alabama Chapter’s annual Christmas Party on Dec. 5 from 6 to 9 pm, at Creative Cabinets & Design, 285 Lyon Lane in Birmingham. Enjoy food and drinks, and bring a wrapped gift (about a $25 value) to participate in a “Dirty Santa” gift swap. More info here.

Chicago Mid West Holiday Cheer: Join the Chicago Mid West Chapter on Dec. 10 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, for a festive holiday celebration at Crawford Supply, 751 North Rohlwing Road Itasca, IL. Kick off the holiday season with friends and colleagues and a night filled with laughter, live music, games, prizes and good cheer. Members are $30, non-members are $60, students are $10. Register here.

Industry News

Lumber Prices Creeping Up Again: After stabilizing in August and September, the price of lumber inched up for the fifth straight week in October, reaching their highest level this year. Lumber prices rose 2.9 percent for the week ended Nov. 1, and are 8 percent higher than in September and 17.2 percent higher than they were a year ago, according to the National Association of Home Builders. This, along with rising wages for construction workers and higher interest rates, could translate to declining affordability and higher prices for new homes, NAHB said. Builder Online has the story.

Housing Starts Fall: The new housing market appears to be cooling, as residential starts fell 3.1 percent in October from September, and were off 4 percent from October 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Single-family starts were hit harder, off 6.9 percent in October on a monthly basis, and starts in the South fell an even greater 10.2 percent, stymied by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Some economists attribute the national slip to mortgage rates edging up again. Reuters has more.

Vuitton NYC Flagship Facelift: Louis Vuitton’s New York store is undergoing a massive renovation, and while that’s happening, the façade of the famous flagship is decked out like a stack of the brand’s iconic luggage. The luxury property on the corner of Fifth Avenue and East 57^th Street is disguised to resemble six trunks in varying sizes, complete with its signature monogram, handles, rivets, locks, and hardware fashioned from chrome-plated steel. While the multi-year renovation is taking place, the brand opened a temporary store around the corner which includes a chocolate shop and Vuitton’s first café in the U.S. Dezeen has more.

NKBA | KBIS changed its overall certification to accommodate members’ evolving needs.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

To better serve its members, NKBA | KBIS has updated its longstanding Certification Program. The transformation includes changes to the two certifications currently offered — Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer (CKBD) and Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer (CMKBD). There is no separate application fee, as all materials, application, and testing are included in one purchase price.

The NKBA is one of the leading resources for professional education and career development across all aspects of kitchen and bath design and remodeling. Participation in certification programs, from the initial preparation and testing to maintaining certifications with Continuing Education Units, keeps designers up-to-date on the latest news, technologies, and standards in the industry. These prestigious appellations communicate expert knowledge, skills, training, and experience in kitchen and bath design.

“The primary aim in restructuring our certification program was to evolve and become more in sync with our members’ objectives and align with the demands of this ever-changing industry,” said Lindsay Franco, Senior Manager of NKBA’s Learning Department. “In doing so, the NKBA continues to elevate our certified designers and remains one of the leaders within the design community.”

For both levels of certification, participants must be NKBA members in good standing and must complete the program within a 12-month period. Both also feature newly designed appellations, digital images, and certificates. A candidate’s qualification is based on education and work experience. The NKBA has created a specific educational curriculum track for each type of qualifying candidate, and the curriculum is aligned with current industry standards.

“Gaining the knowledge and understanding required to become certified helped me become a better designer,” said Omar Zaater, CKBD, designer and project director for k YODER design (kYd) in Philadelphia. “It involves a level of technical understanding of everything from building mechanics and interior systems to life safety, and coordination across all involved trades that is well beyond what most think of when designing a kitchen or bathroom. It also has helped solidify my role as a professional in the industry, defining the level of expertise across other areas of the design trade.”

The online application for either certification program is included in the package containing the necessary coursework to complete the program, which also includes tutorials, instructional videos, practice exams, and additional resources. Participants receive access to a Learning Management System (LMS) platform, separate from the NKBA website.

Additional Changes to the CKBD Program:

• Applications are accepted year-round (rolling).
• The entire program is completed online (from application to exams).
• The required two-part exam is offered during designated times in the spring and fall.
• Exams do not need to be completed in any specific order.

Additional Changes to the CMKBD Program:

• Candidates must have maintained their CKBD status for six consecutive years before applying.
• Once approved, candidates will have one full year to validate the Eligibility Requirements that fall under Education, Professional, Work Experience, Master Portfolio Review, and Master Profile criteria.

“The certifications I’ve received over the years have taught me so much and helped me to implement better drafting standards and expand my knowledge on design components including construction details, clearance requirements, and ADA standards,” Kailee Klevan, CMKBD, lead designer at Beyond Kitchens in Rochester, MN. “It has also given me an immense amount of credibility and I have used the knowledge I’ve obtained while studying for these certifications. Having a certification is one more thing you can use to set yourself apart from others, prove credibility, and use as a reason for why clients should work with you.”This restructuring reflects the association’s ongoing commitment to provide its members with the information and education they need to maintain a competitive edge and stay current. To learn more about the NKBA Certification Program, including the CKBD, CMKBD, and other resources that can affirm expertise and professionalism in the industry and a competitive edge, visit the NKBA Learning Department Page today. For any questions or additional information, email certification@nkba.org.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

Bernard Marcus, Home Depot Co-Founder, Dies: Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot, the world’s largest home improvement chain, died Nov. 4 in Boca Raton, FL. The billionaire philanthropist was 95. Marcus was CEO of THD during its first 20 years, from 1979 to 1999, generating exponential growth, and remained chairman until he retired in 2002. The Newark, NJ, native wanted to be a doctor but his family couldn’t afford medical school. Instead, he worked his way through Rutgers University selling Amana freezers door-to-door, the company said. He went into retail, became lifelong friends with Arthur Blank when they both worked at Handy Dan Improvement Centers, and together, they founded THD in 1979 in Atlanta. According to Traqline, a market intelligence firm, in 2023, The Home Depot was the nation’s largest retailer of kitchen and bath fixtures, winning the category with a unit share of 32 percent and dollar share of 26 percent. The Home Depot had sales of nearly $153 billion in 2023. AP has more.

Cosentino Upgrades in Miami, L.A.: Spanish surfacing giant Cosentino has renovated and reopened its City showrooms in Miami and Los Angeles. “These renovations are key milestones in Cosentino’s continued expansion across North America,” said Eduardo Cosentino, CEO of Cosentino North America and EVP of Global Sales. The 3,000 square-foot showroom in Miami cost $1 million and expanded into space previously used for offices. It brings together all 2023 and 2024 product launches, including EARTHIC® and Le Chic Boheme by Silestone®XM, and Dekton®’s Pietra Edition and Ukiyo collections. In L.A., the $500,000 renovation updated the 4,000 square-foot space with display areas, millwork, an outdoor patio, and a refreshed Mediterranean aesthetic. Cosentino will open City showrooms in Dallas this winter and Honolulu City in 2025. KBB has more.

Gaggenau Wins GH Award: Gaggenau’s 400 Series Combi-Steam oven earned a Good Housekeeping 2025 Home Reno Award. The German luxury brand has been a pioneer with steam oven innovations since 1999, and this newest iteration offers advanced culinary features including steaming, braising, baking, sous-vide, and more, with precise humidity and temperature control. It is Wi-Fi-enabled with the Home Connect system for remote monitoring and settings adjustment from a mobile device, recipe search and chef assistant programs. It also features self-cleaning technology and a unique fixed water connection and drain, so there’s no need to worry about adding water or emptying a tank. More on Gaggenau here.

Wilsonart Releases Sustainability Report: Engineered surfaces leader Wilsonart has released its 2023 Sustainability Report. The report showcases Wilsonart’s continued commitment to sustainability and transparency across its global operations. It enhanced its focus on four key areas: ensuring transparency across its portfolios through rigorous sustainability certifications; innovating to optimize manufacturing efficiency; elevating its most sustainable core product, High Pressure Laminate (HPL), and growing its business with a caring workforce. Highlights include incorporating 23 percent post-consumer recycled content (PCRC) on average into Wilsonart^® HPL products, with a goal of 40 percent PCRC in HPL products by 2027, and saving the equivalent of nearly 8.9 million trees since 2000 by using recycled paper/wood content. See the full report here.

New Board Members and Contest at Natural Stone Institute: The Natural Stone Institute will welcome two individuals to its board of directors in January. Joshua Levinson, CEO of family owned and operated Artistic Tile based in Secaucus, NJ, has nearly thirty years of stone industry experience, including extensive volunteer work and leadership roles supporting the industry. Susan Moser of Fauske Marble by Moser Aps is a third-generation natural stone industry professional from Denmark who has worked all over the world. Currently, she is CEO and owner of Norway’s historic Norwegian Rose marble quarry north of the arctic circle. She reactivated the quarry, bringing it back to the world. They will serve four-year terms from 2025-2028.

Additionally, beginning with the 2025 Call for Entries, NSI’s Tucker Design Awards will be partnered with the Pinnacle Awards program. Both awards will be given annually beginning at StonExpo in 2026. This streamlined approach to NSI’s architecture awards entry, submission, judging, and celebration efforts will elevate the work of both the natural stone industry and the design community. Learn more here.

Chapter News

Chicago Mid West Progressive Dinner: The Chicago Mid West Chapter is hosting a progressive dinner on Nov. 19, 5 to 8:30 pm, in The Mart, 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza in
Chicago. Guests will visit four sponsor showrooms, starting at Graff Designs for check-in, appetizers at Dacor Kitchen Theater, entrees at the Monogram Design Center inside LuxeHome, and dessert at Middleby Residential. Members are $30, non-members are $60, Students are $10. Register here.

A series of talks ranging from the serious to the celebrity captivated the crowd.

By Nicholas Tamarin

From Clodagh to Thom Filicia, the stars of design turned out at NKBA | KBIS’s The Tent for a series of engaging discussions on the state of the industry during day two of North Carolina’s High Point Market, the world’s largest home industry furnishings trade show. Billed as an interactive experience of “Design, Innovation, Artistry, Happenings, Culinary, Creativity, Nexus,” the Tent is located in historic High Point’s Hamilton Wrenn North neighborhood on Fred Alexander Place.

Interspersed with pop hits courtesy of New York–based DJ SK, passed prosecco, and live portraiture of participants by artist Manuel Santelices, were design discussions that began with “Beyond Style: Designing for the Senses, Psychology, Color Perception, and Biophilia” with Amber Dunford, the Bed Bath & Beyond and Overstock.com’s style director who has appeared in The New York Times, Architectural Digest, and Real Simple as an expert in design psychology. 

Dunford is one of only a handful of design psychologists with expertise in the connection between space design and mental health. She coupled a degree in interior design with a master’s in clinical psychology and developed a course to teach architects and designers how to infuse psychology principles into their work. “I’m of the belief that the spaces that surround us have a massive and underrated impact on our mental health and well being,” Dunford said. “I approach my work with this philosophy in mind: design doesn’t just contribute to our built environments, it contributes to our emotional states–often subconsciously.”

Following Dunford’s chat, longtime sponsor Fabuwood’s fabulous marketing manager Moses Brach introduced Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO, NKBA | KBIS, to toast The Tent’s other generous sponsors: Signature Kitchen Suite, Bed Bath & Beyond Professional, Unform Studio, Hettich, Shaw Floors, and Anderson Tuftex, along with Cosentino, FreePower, and FLOWER Magazine. “Cheers to the future of residential design,” Darcy said. “And I hope to see you all at KBIS in February!”

Next up came legendary Irish fashion designer turned single-name interiors star Clodagh. After Sponsor Anderson Tuftex’s vice president John Stephens introduced her interviewer, Interior Design editor in chief Cindy Allen, the duo sat down to discuss the trajectory of Clodagh’s many decades in the industry, from designing for Robert Redford to her whopping 20 product licenses. “Licenses are like sending your kids off to school–but you get the check,” Clodagh concluded to laughter.

After the High Point Market Influencer Tour led by NKBA | KBIS’s very own director of marketing, Crystal Watts, where brand partners each spent three minutes sharing their story, the first two of the activation’s four chats began between Allen and the starry members of the inaugural NKBA Design Council: Thom Filicia, Caleb Anderson, Celerie Kemble, and Michael Boyd Smith. 

First up was Filicia, who regaled the audience with hilarious tales of his time at Queer Eye for the Straight Guy before delving into a career arc that began with a degree in interior design from Syracuse University. Next was work with storied designers Albert Hadley, David Kleinberg, and Robert Metzger before Filicia founded his own firm in 1998 to express “aesthetics rooted in traditional concepts but in a fresh, lifestyle driven way,” he said. Now, Filicia says, “I feel the business aspect of design is almost as important as the creative side. And kitchens and baths have become so much a part of it. Dining now takes place in the kitchen and bathrooms are the places we go to relax and recharge.”

Allen’s conversations continued with Caleb Anderson, who design heavyweight Jamie Drake handpicked to become his partner when Anderson was barely out of college due to the latter’s tasteful embrace of sustainability. “It was a brilliant move,” Allen said. “I was not feeling well so I started focusing on wellness,” Anderson added. “Now my own wellness journey is a point of departure for sustainability, which is not typical in a high-end luxury residential firm like ours.”

Following happy hour cocktails, a bus shuttled attendees from The Tent to the KBIS 60th Anniversary Dinner hosted by Darcy and SKS at the beautifully restored HQ & The Gallery High Point. Amongst a pebbled courtyard illuminated by countless fire pits and tiki torches, the cocktail reception featured a jazz trio playing the standard while appetizers were passed. Guests then headed inside to the historic industrial interiors to enjoy a warmly lit family-style dinner while Darcy gave a final toast. “We are excited to deepen our connection with the broader residential design world,” Darcy says. “We’ve experienced an incredibly warm welcome here at our first Market event. Tonight, we raise our glasses to the power of design, how it brings us together, and shapes our world. While we just celebrated 60 years of NKBA | KBIS, what excites me most isn’t just history—it’s where we’re headed. We’ve seen residential design evolve in exciting ways, with technology, sustainability, and innovation leading that. NKBA | KBIS is committed and well positioned to support growth across the entire home.”

The inaugural edition of the activation combined design discussions with DJ’ing and dining.

By Nicholas Tamarin

Debuting amidst delightfully warm autumn temperatures and in the presence of the new host of ABC’s wildly popular Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the inaugural edition of NKBA | KBIS’s the Tent activation dominated talk on day one of North Carolina’s High Point Market, the world’s largest home industry furnishings trade show. Billed as interactive experience of “Design, Innovation, Artistry, Happenings, Culinary, Creativity, Nexus” the Tent, open through Monday, is located in historic High Point’s Hamilton Wrenn North Neighborhood on Fred Alexander Place and is generously sponsored by Signature Kitchen Suite, Fabuwood, Bed Bath & Beyond Professional, Unform Studio, Hettich, Shaw Floors, and Anderson Tuftex. 

Surrounded by packed showrooms and past an entrance where artist Manuel Santelices was busy painting a live acrylic triptych of a scene from Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Aida, New York-based DJ Slams played vintage hip-hop beats and classics from the likes of Stevie Wonder while attendees with cocktails in hand danced in between a series of celebrity designer laden discussions and culinary demonstrations. 

Opening at 10 a.m. with a pop-up of Union Coffee from nearby Greensboro slinging iced latte’s and baked goods, the Tent showcased the NKBA | KBIS’s sleek new signature blue by Benjamin Moore & Co. as the space designed by New York-based Rodolfo Algrella quickly filled up. At 11:30, the first panel, “How the Kitchen is Shaping Design” got under way with NKBA Thirty Under 30 winner Jennifer Hutton of Grau Building, Sharon Sherman, CKD, owner of Thyme & Place Design, and Donille Perrone, senior brand marketing manager of sponsor Signature Kitchen Suite. Moderated by Angela Rath, NKBA | KBIS’s director of domestic accounts, the quartet took a deep dive into how the kitchen is defining design with a discussion that delved into luxury, technology, sustainability, and the proliferation of multifunctional open concept spaces post-pandemic.

Next up at 1:30 was, “Residential Meets Commercial” with Anderson Tuftex vice president John Stephens, Shaw Floors director of product design Kenny Michael of Shaw Floors, and Marriott International’s vice president of global design strategies Aliya Kahn. Moderated by Anderson Tuftex’s marketing director Bailey Walton, the assemblage of influential tastemakers talked how “hospitality and residential design have a lot to learn from each other,” according to Khan, as lines between living and working continue to blur amidst an increase in demand for durable, sustainable, ethically sourced products, particularly from the younger generation of consumers.

The dynamic day was rounded out by a final 3 p.m. conversation between Baton Rouge, LA–based interior designer Arianne Bellizaire, the new host of ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and legendary Virginian designer Barry Dixon. Moderated by Karen Carroll, editorial director of FLOWER Magazine, the wide-ranging design discussion touched upon everything from favorite childhood kitchens (everyone was in agreement that it was their maternal grandmother’s) and most inspiring design destinations (Marrakech and Istanbul for Dixon; Bellizaire went with Vienna, Prague, and Budapest), to how to bill based on square footage, placing value on one’s creative vision, and knowing when to walk away from a project and when to, as Dixon memorably put it “Slay that dragon, grow, and take your sword to the next project.”

In between the panels, Austin-based professional personal chef Justin Cullimore, owner of Lone Star Chefs and winner of the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival, grilled up sous vide steak with goat cheese and pork chop with beef char siu on sponsor SKS’s 36-inch induction cooktop when not taking photos with fans.

Days two and three promise to be just as compelling with highlights including chats between Interior Design editor in chief Cindy Allen and NKBA Design Council members and industry stars Caleb Anderson, Thom Filicia, Celerie Kemble, and Michael Boyd Smith. And of course more happy hour cocktails. A full list of the remaining events can be found here.

NKBA Manhattan Chapter’s Third Annual Education and Membership Day (“Edu Day”) was held at the A&D Building on Tuesday, October 8, with an all-day Membership Drive and full day of CEUs and programs from 10 AM to 8 PM. The day included a keynote panel and luncheon; great giveaways and raffle prizes; engaging panel discussions; and a celebratory closing cocktail reception.

Top moderators and panelists from inside the industry and beyond explored hot topics, including Harnessing the Power of Light as an Evolving Luxury; AI in Residential Design for Designers, Remodelers and Architects; Sustainability Through a Technological Lens; Great Design—The Great Equalizer; and Interactive Oktoberfest with Miele. While NKBA members earned CEUs, potential new members experienced firsthand NKBA’s membership benefits, with the strong focus on Education, one of the primary reasons to join NKBA.

As Manhattan Chapter President Charle-John Cafiero shared, “Every committee in the NKBA Manhattan Chapter, including Sponsorship, Communications, Membership, Finance and Programs, worked on this event. Our long-term planning over three months in advance and careful attention to detail made this event successful. Manhattan Chapter Officers and committee volunteers all stepped up to oversee five CEU programs plus run a full-day schedule. Our Manhattan Chapter has built strong relationships with sponsors, and when planning Edu Day, we got their buy-in on programming and raffle prizes.”

“The impact of our annual Edu Day raises the profile of the Manhattan Chapter in the highly competitive NYC design community and provides an all-day setting for the Membership Drive,” Cafiero said. 

NKBA Manhattan’s Membership Committee had the opportunity to interact all day with prospective members who were able to observe first-hand the benefits of joining NKBA while attending panels, keynote luncheon and the closing cocktail reception. Edu Day provides networking opportunities for designers and showroom teams, and it helps members earn their NKBA CEUs. Volunteers also enjoy the opportunity to work toward a common goal. These bonds and a sense of community lead to repeat renewals.

NKBA Manhattan Chapter took on the challenge of not one event, but a whole day of individual events, plus a robust CEU offering and full-day membership drive. It was standing room only, but most attendees stayed throughout the day for education and networking. Edu Day benefits both members and sponsors, attracts new membership to the chapter, and raises the profile of NKBA in New York City and beyond via editorial coverage and social media. Overall, as Cafiero noted, “Edu Day 2024 served as a powerful and persuasive reason for joining NKBA.”

Photos courtesy of Jeff Siegel | The Mad Photographer.

NKBA Northern California and California Capital Chapters recently co-hosted their annual “Design Crawl” event at the San Francisco Design Center.

Chapter members from Northern California and California Capital met at the Cosentino showroom, where Kerrie Kelly, CEO/Founder of Kerrie Kelly Studio and Creative Director of Fabuwood, shared the keynote message. Nureed Saeed, Northern California Chapter President and Creative Director of Nu Interiors, interviewed Kerrie Kelly, who is a design award-winner, influencer, and brand leader. Kerrie Kelly offered insights for designers seeking to build industry partnerships and expand their own design brands.

Following the keynote and breakfast, chapter members formed five groups for their Design Crawl, where they visited six outstanding showrooms, including Cosentino, Country Floors, Hewn, Kohler, Milestone Distributors and Visual Comfort. At the end of the showroom tours, both chapters met back together for a group lunch at Visual Comfort. 

NKBA Northern California Chapter President Nureed Saeed said, “The Northern California Chapter created this annual event four years ago as a way to bring together designers and showrooms, offering both of our membership groups a unique opportunity to see the latest of what is being offered in the market, while also making valuable connections. We are happy to have invited our friends in the Capital Chapter to collaborate with us again and share in this unique experience.”

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

Miele Taps Grayson-Roper as VP of Marketing: German luxury appliance giant Miele has named Catherine Grayson-Roper VP of marketing for the U.S. and Mexico, reporting to Søren Rye, president and CEO of Miele USA and Mexico. Grayson-Roper directs the company’s consumer marketing including advertising, market research, category management, and internal and external communications. She joins Miele from MillerKnoll luxury home furnishings, where she implemented global retail marketing capabilities for Herman Miller, Knoll, and Design Within Reach. Before that, she led marketing for brands including Delta Faucet, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Johnson & Johnson. More on Miele here.

Kelly Teams with Fabuwood: Award-winning designer Kerrie Kelly, FASID, CEO and Creative Director for Kerrie Kelly Studio, and Secretary/Treasurer of the NKBA Board of Directors, has teamed with Newark, NJ-based cabinetry company Fabuwood as creative director. Kelly, based in Sacramento, CA, will bring a West Coast perspective to Fabuwood as it aims to strengthen its foothold in western markets, and help “create fresh, functional design solutions that transform how people experience everyday life at home,” she said. More details here.

Ramsay Partners With Thor: Multi-Michelin-Starred celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and Thor appliances have collaborated on a chef-inspired collection of ranges, refrigerators and dishwashers. The Thor Kitchen x Gordon Ramsay features professional-grade appliances for the residential kitchen, including a tilt-panel gas range in multiple sizes, electric ranges, French-door refrigerators, and dishwashers. They are available in stainless steel with handle options in bronze, rose gold and navy, plus a limited-edition black series. Learn more here.

Cosentino Promotions: Cosentino North America has promoted four key leaders across different company segments. Massimo Ballucchi has been named VP of Institutional Relations, leading Cosentino’s Business Development & Institutional Relations team. He has been with the company more than seven years in marketing and executive positions, and also is a longtime member of NKBA’s KBIS Exhibitor Committee. Gary Andler, a 19-year Cosentino veteran, has been promoted to Vice President of Retail Channels. He previously was a senior advisor and VP of National Accounts. Ignacio Paniagua, who joined in 2016, was named Executive Director of Kitchen & Bath in North America, after serving in the Strategy department. Returning to the North American operation after stints in the British Isles and Spain, Alvaro Chomon was named Executive Director of Commercial Accounts, and has been with the company over nine years. KBB has the story.

SKS Named Partner of Food & Wine Classic: Luxury appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite was named the exclusive appliance partner at the inaugural Food & Wine Classic, which took place Sept. 27-29 in Charleston, SC. As a premier sponsor, SKS supplied appliances for renowned chefs, who demonstrated induction and sous vide cooking methods. Appliances included a 48-inch dual-fuel pro range, a 36-inch Flex Induction cooktop, undercounter convertible refrigerator and freezer drawers, and undercounter wine refrigerators. Learn more here.

Chapter Updates

Expo in OK: The Oklahoma Chapter is hosting its 2024 Chapter Expo on Oct. 24, 5 to 8 PM at Reece Bath + Kitchen, 501 NE 122nd Street, Suite C, in Oklahoma City. The event is free, supports vendor partners and provides an informative experience for membership. This tabletop expo offers a hands-on opportunity for members to see and learn about the latest products, network and build relationships while enjoying food, drinks, and door prizes. More here.

Lobstah and Learning in Maine: Join the Maine Chapter on Oct. 29 for an all-day Lobster Toss Cornhole Tournament and Educational Event and The Dome at Portland Sports Complex, 512 Warren Avenue in Portland. The day starts with light breakfast at 8:30 AM and includes educational seminars worth 0.2 CEUs: “The Art of Storage” presented by Richelieu, a presentation by master sponsor LX Hausys, and “Selling with Empathy” by SaPre. Lunch, networking, cornhole, fun and prizes round out the day. Registration starts at $75 for members. More info here.

Dress Up in Minnesota: The Minnesota State Chapter is hosting a Showroom Social and Costume Party on Oct. 30, 4:30 to 7:30 PM, at MSI’s new location, 10955 73rd Place North in Maple Grove. An optional 0.1 CEU Presentation, “Countertop Chronicles: Unveiling Surface Secrets” runs from 5 to 6 PM. Food, fun, drink, and door prizes are included for $20 for NKBA Members, $40 for non-members. More detail here.

Industry News

Existing Home Sales Dip in August: Sales of existing homes fell 2.5 percent in August from July, and were off 4.2 percent from August 2023, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. While “disappointing,” the recent prospect of lower mortgage rates and increasing inventory is “a powerful combination that will provide the environment for sales to move higher in future months,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. Total inventory in August was up 0.7 percent from July and a substantial 22.7 percent from August 2023, creating a supply of 4.2 months at the current sales pace. Sales of new homes also fell in August, by 4.7 percent from July. Learn more here.