Eduardo Cosentino, EVP Cosentino Group & CEO Cosentino Americas, Elected Board Chair

Eduardo Cosentino, EVP Cosentino Group & CEO Cosentino Americas has been elected Chair of NKBA’s 2025 Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2025. He succeeds Ken Williams, President, Caesarstone Canada. Williams will stay on as a 2025 NKBA board member.

“I am truly honored to serve as the new Chairman of the Board for NKBA,” said Cosentino. “The kitchen and bath industry is at the forefront of innovation and design, and I look forward to working alongside such a talented group of leaders to drive the association and the industry forward. As we expand our global reach, NKBA will continue to serve as a hub for international collaboration, bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise to shape the future of residential design. Together, we will foster growth, creativity, and connections that transcend borders, ensuring that NKBA remains a powerful force on the global stage.”

In addition to Cosentino, Kerrie Kelly, CEO and Creative Director, Kerrie Kelly Studio has been elected Vice Chair. Returning board member, Ken Roberts, President, Atlas Roofing Corporation, will assume the position of NKBA Board Secretary/Treasurer. 

“The NKBA Board plays a pivotal role in guiding our Association and supporting the kitchen and bath industry at every level,” said Bill Darcy, NKBA Global President & CEO. “With Eduardo Cosentino as Chair, and the remarkable expertise of our new and returning board members, we are well-positioned to champion innovation, drive growth, and elevate NKBA’s impact in an evolving market. The Board’s collective vision, dedication, and diverse perspectives will undoubtedly propel the Association forward as we continue to serve our members and lead the industry into 2025 and beyond.” 

The new 2025 board members, who join existing board member Nicola Bertazzoni, Chief Operating Officer, Bertazzoni Group, are: Scott Edmunds, Sr. Vice President of Marketing, Kohler, Jill Ehnes, President of Delta Faucet Company, Peri Friedman, COO, Fabuwood, and Michael Gross, Senior Vice President, Whirlpool. Edmunds, Ehnes, and Gross have been elected to serve four-year terms and Friedman has been elected to serve a three-year term. Below is the complete list of the 2025 NKBA Board Members, who will officially take their positions January 1, 2025.

2025 NKBA BOARD OFFICERS

Eduardo Cosentino, Chair
EVP Cosentino Group & CEO, Cosentino Americas, Miami, FL

Eduardo Cosentino is the Executive Vice President of Global Corporate Sales and CEO of Cosentino Americas. In the former, he oversees the Group’s sales efforts on a global scale, where he utilizes his multicultural background and sales experience to propel the company’s product design and R&D forward. In addition to his global sales role, he became CEO of Cosentino’s North America operations in 2010, leading the company’s growth in one of largest and most important markets for the organization. Eduardo has developed a substantial career within Cosentino Group, working his way up by serving in multiple roles that allowed him to profoundly understand the business. Prior to his current roles, he worked in multiple divisions, from workshop and commercial operations to sales and senior management roles both at the regional and international level. He is also a member of Cosentino’s Steering Committee, Executive Committee and Company Board. Since 2002 he has been VP of the Andalusian Marble Association, and in 2023 he was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Spain-US Chamber of Commerce, serving as Vice President. Eduardo is motivated by finding solutions to complex problems and developing the talents of his team while helping them develop professionally. Guided by his entrepreneurial spirit, intuition, and creative problem-solving, Eduardo is a key piece in the continued growth and success of Cosentino globally.

Kerrie Kelly, Vice Chair
CEO and Creative Director, Kerrie Kelly Studio, Sacramento, CA

Kerrie Kelly, recent recipient of the ASID Designer and Distinction Award, leads as CEO & creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio. An award-winning interior designer, esteemed author, and brand strategist, Kerrie has received national recognition for her expertise. Kerrie has served as the Secretary & Treasurer on the NKBA National Board of Directors; Fellow, Design Luminary Award recipient and past chair to the National Board of ASID. Kerrie has also been featured in publications such as The New York Times, House Beautiful, Forbes, The Globe and Mail, USA Today, Elle Decor, and The Wall Street Journal.

Ken Roberts, – Secretary/Treasurer
President, Atlas Roofing Corporation, Atlanta, GA

As President of Atlas Roofing Corporation, Roberts leads the four divisions of a leading North American manufacturer in roofing materials: Polyiso Roof & Wall Insulation, Shingles & Underlayments, Molded Products (expanded polystyrene), and Web Technologies. Prior to this, he was President of Delta Faucet Company and President of Masco Canada. Known for his ability to build teams and manage complexity, Roberts has held a variety of leadership positions in sales, international business development, manufacturing, engineering, forecasting, purchasing, and logistics. He also spent three years overseas developing Delta Faucet Company’s China operations. Roberts holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology as well as a Master’s of Management in Manufacturing degree from Northwestern University.

2025 NKBA BOARD MEMBERS

Nicola Bertazzoni
Chief Operating Officer, Bertazzoni Group, Emilia Romagna, Italy

Bertazzoni holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Modena, Italy. Nicola started his professional career in the automotive business, working for the joint venture between General Motors and Fiat,  prior to holding management positions at Fiat Group in Italy, and Toyota Europe HQ in Belgium. In 2008 he joined the 6th generation family-owned major appliance business. After serving in multiple roles, he assumed the position of VP Sales in 2012 with a focus on global sales, and set up subsidiaries for the corporation throughout Europe, Asia, and the Americas as part of a business development strategy in the key markets. Nicola is President/Director of all subsidiaries, including Bertazzoni North America Inc., the US & Canadian business unit. In 2021 he assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer for the entire Bertazzoni Group overseeing the company worldwide.

Ken Williams
President, Caesarstone Canada, Concord, Ontario

Williams, who joined Caesarstone in 2016, specializes in building strong teams with core values of high performance, people, innovation, customer focus and credibility. Previously, he held various senior executive level positions, including Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing in a number of Masco Corporation divisions and general management roles at Fortune Brands, Rehill Company Ltd. and Thorn Stevenson Kellogg Management Consultants. Williams holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Trent University in Ontario, Canada.

Scott Edmunds
Sr. Vice President of Marketing, Kohler Co., Kohler, WI

Scott is responsible for overall Kohler Co. brand marketing strategy and execution across the Kohler Co. family of businesses.  This includes Performance, Digital, Channel and Campaign Marketing strategies for omni channel sales targets for all businesses and product categories for Kohler and Sterling brand across DTC, Retail/E-tail, Professional and Trade Channels. Prior to this role, Scott served as Vice President of Marketing for Global Faucets – Kohler Brand.  In this role Scott oversaw the Marketing and Product Development of Kohler Faucets around the globe.  He joined Kohler Co. in 2000.

Jill Ehnes
President, Delta Faucet Company, Indianapolis, IN

As President of a multi-brand, multi-category plumbing organization with operations in North America and Asia, Jill Ehnes is responsible for developing and driving the Company’s strategy, expanding the product and category footprint, and delivering superior results while nurturing a culture of innovation and passion for winning together.

Jill joined Delta Faucet Company in 2002 and has held a variety of leadership roles in information services, new product development, customer solutions, human resources, and omnichannel retail. In her previous role as vice president, omnichannel retail, Jill developed an interconnected, decision-maker focused strategy and mindset to quickly respond to changing business and market conditions ensuring a seamless omnichannelpurchase experience. Jill also led the acquisition of Kraus, a leading brand of sinks, faucets, and related accessories, and introduced Delta® branded sinks. Additionally, she served as vice president of human resources from 2012 to 2019, where she designed and executed the DFC strategic planning process, created and implemented the Company’s employer brand, and led human resources through significant transformation.

Michael Gross
Senior Vice President, Whirlpool, Benton Harbor, MI

Michael was named Senior Vice President, Product Marketing for Whirlpool Corporation in 2023, leading product marketing inclusive of merchandising, strategy and product delivery engineering for the North American business, which exceeds $10+ billion in annual sales.

In his 17 years with Whirlpool Corporation, he has held roles of increasing responsibility including Sales roles for Lowe’s, Maytag Stores, and Retail/Builder Channels, Director of Product Marketing for the US Cooking business, Merchandising, Operations, Brand Marketing, General Manager for KitchenAid Small Appliances and most recently, Vice President for the Lowe’s Business. Prior to joining Whirlpool, he was employed by the NBA, Orlando Magic and has also held leadership positions with REICO Kitchen and Bath (a Mid-Atlantic retailer).

Peri Friedman
COO, Fabuwood, Newark, NJ

Peri Friedman is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Fabuwood, a leading semi-custom cabinetry manufacturer. With 14 years at Fabuwood, Peri has been instrumental in driving innovation and operational excellence across production, technology, sales, and logistics. She is known for implementing lean manufacturing practices and integrating advanced technologies, fostering a values-driven, customer-centric culture that empowers teams and enhances customer satisfaction.

Her influence is evident in every aspect of Fabuwood’s operations. From fostering a fiercely dedicated team to maintaining a fast-paced environment and encouraging transparent feedback, Peri has been a driving force behind the company’s distinctive culture. She also led the acquisition and integration of Plain & Fancy, significantly expanding Fabuwood’s market presence and further solidifying its leadership in the cabinetry industry.

With a collaborative leadership style and a commitment to strategic growth, Peri has positioned herself as a key contributor to Fabuwood’s success. An advocate for innovation and continuous improvement, she is recognized for her ability to build strong industry relationships, drive meaningful change, and deliver results that align with the company’s long-term vision.

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.