Laying the Foundation for Success: A Panel Discussion with Members of the NKBA Thirty Under 30
When:
April 18, 2024 | 12:00 PM ET
CEUs: .05
About this Episode
Originally featured at KBIS 2024, current and recent members of the NKBA Thirty Under 30 will share the biggest takeaways from their educational careers. The panelists will reflect on the assignments, activities, and opportunities that laid the foundation for their success as designers. There will be time for Q&A at the end of the live webinar.
Featured Presenter
Rebecca Sutton, CMKBD, CKBR
Rebecca earned a Bachelor of Art in Philosophy and a Bachelor of Science in Apparel, Housing, and Resource Management from Virginia Tech University. She earned her Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) accreditation in 2022 and currently holds specialty badges in Remodeling as well as Sales and Marketing. Rebecca was inducted into the prestigious NKBA “Thirty under 30” program in 2016. She also earned her Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler (CKBR) certification from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) in 2022. Rebecca is a former NKBA Chapter Officer, former member of the NKBA Thirty Under 30 Selection Committee and a judge for the NKBA Student Design Competition in 2023.
Featured Presenter
Kiersten Reed, CKBD
As she neared graduation with a degree in Interior Design from Brookdale Community College in New Jersey, Kiersten Reed began to have doubts. So, she opted to explore furniture design programs, driven by her passion for creating functional pieces and her admiration for Frank Lloyd Wright’s comprehensive approach to design. But when given the opportunity to intern at a local kitchen and bath showroom, she quickly became intrigued by the industry. Now six years into her career, 28-year-old Kiersten has achieved the NKBA | KBIS CKBD certification and has been recognized as the youngest person in her company to become an assistant manager for a key department.
Featured Presenter
Devorah Werner, CKBD
As the Founder, Owner and Designer of Brooklyn, NY-based WERKI by D, LLC, a Kitchen Design Studio, Devorah Werner has positioned herself as an expert in designing kosher kitchens, especially when space is limited as it is in many New York City residences. Her skill set stems from both her comprehensive understanding of kosher cultural traditions and lifestyle and her studies in Residential Planning at The Art Institute.
Countertops and the Threat of Silicosis – The Role of NKBA Members
When:
March 19, 2025 | 12:00 PM ET
CEUs: .1
Register your information
"*" indicates required fields
What You Will Learn
Silicosis is in the news, but the dangers of silica dust and its health impact for countertop/bath fabricators is avoidable. Learn about key silica awareness initiatives and the role kitchen & bath professionals can take to help the stone industry. Several key resources and helpful tips will be provided.
Learning Objectives:
Gain insight into the dangers of silicosis impacting employees in the countertop and bath industry
Learn about employee safety resources available from the Natural Stone Institute
Learn how kitchen & bath professionals can impact this initiative and utilize fabricators focused on safety
Featured Presenter
Jim Hieb, CAE – CEO, Natural Stone Institute (NSI)
Jim serves as the NSI CEO and has led development of several key programs enjoyed by the kitchen & design community including access to technical standards, continuing education (CE) credits, and networking with stone professionals. He is active in several charitable organizations and enjoys collecting baseball cards.
Featured Presenter
Mark Meriaux – Accreditation & Technical Manager, Natural Stone Institute (NSI)
Mark manages both the NSI fabricator credentialling program and industry safety initiatives. A former countertop fabricator, he has also championed all NSI silica awareness and training activities. Mark enjoys outdoor activities and music concerts with his wife and their two children.
Featured Presenter
Dacia Belisle Woodworth – Architect & Design Community Liaison, Natural Stone Institute (NSI)
Dacia manages NSI outreach to design communities leading a robust continuing education program and designer focused webinars about natural stone and the natural stone industry. Before joining the NSI, she worked in the design build industry. She is an avid trail rider and equestrian camper.
Registration for KBIS 2025, which will take place Feb. 25-27, 2025 in Las Vegas, is open as of Sept. 3, 2024 and is FREE for NKBA members throughout the month of September — so register now! By attending, you’ll enjoy access to North America’s largest kitchen & bath trade show featuring more than 670 exhibitors. KBIS — part of DCW (Design & Construction Week), the co-location of KBIS and IBS (the International Builders’ Show), owned by NAHB — offers a chance to discover new brands and products, learn about the latest trends, forge industry connections and enhance your education.
KBIS 2025 will once again be the ultimate resource for members of the kitchen & bath industry. It follows the success of KBIS 2024, which welcomed a record 55,500+ registered visitors, with DCW drawing 117,000 building and design professionals overall. At the 2024 show, KBIS expanded into the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center with the Discovery District (home to new brands and products) as well as additional stages and activations, all returning in 2025.
Here’s a look at the key events, awards, seminars and activations scheduled for KBIS 2025:
Monday, Feb. 24, 2025
KBIS 2025 will kick off this evening at the Lafite Ballroom in Wynn Las Vegas with the annual NKBA Kitchen & Bath Design + Industry Awards honoring top design professionals for exceptional project design in six kitchen and bath categories — Small Kitchen, Large Kitchen, Specialty Kitchen, Powder Room, Secondary Bath and Primary Bath — and culminating with awards for Best Overall Kitchen and Best Overall Bath. A total of $100,000 in prize money will be up for grabs.
Following the awards, the Opening Party will offer a chance for attendees to celebrate the industry, network with colleagues and clients, and have fun while enjoying cocktails and a buffet dinner. Check back for information about tickets to this don’t-miss semi-formal event.
Tuesday, Feb. 25 to Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025
When the South Hall, North Hall and West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, as well as the popular interactive outdoor exhibit area, The Plaza, open to attendees on Feb. 25, 2025, not only will design industry professionals be able to walk the floors and visit booths from hundreds of established and emerging kitchen & bath brands and suppliers, but they will also have access to a line-up of engaging activations, educational seminars and learning tools.
• NEXTStage: Located in the South Hall, NEXTStage will offer non-stop daily programming focused on business and trends, wellness, sustainability and technology presented by some of the most innovative and influential members of the kitchen & bath industry.
NEXTStage will also host multiple awards presentations: The Best of KBIS, honoring the show’s most innovative design and technology; DesignBites, offering a chance for companies to pitch new products and technologies in the ultimate product showdown; the Best Booth Awards, highlighting the top exhibitor booths in multiple size categories; the Kickstarter Competition, giving small or emerging companies a chance to showcase their offerings; the Thirty Under 30 Awards, recognizing 30 high-achieving young members of the industry, who are also tasked with scouting KBIS for the most innovative products in six categories for the 30s Choice Awards.
• Luxury Lounge: Located in the North Hall, Luxury Lounge will be the setting for a series of talks by kitchen & bath experts in the luxury field — including representatives of high-end brands, leading designers and design media and influencers.
• Voices From The Industry (VFTI): Attendees can earn CEU credits, which are necessary to maintain NKBA certification, by attending any of the more than 75 Voices of the Industry (VFTI) workshops and sessions, led by industry members. In 2024, daily courses were given by industry and subject matter experts, including three two-hour workshops, 51 one-hour sessions, and 14 one-and-a-half-hour workshops. The 2025 VFTI schedule will be posted soon.
• State of the Association (SOA) and State of the Industry (SOI): On Feb. 26, 2025 from 8:30am to 10:15am, the annual State of the Association (SOA) update will be presented by NKBA Global President & CEO Bill Darcy, followed by the State of the Industry (SOI) panel discussion moderated by Darcy.
• The BASH: On Feb. 26, 2025, The BASH, an annual celebration and dance party, will take place from 8:30pm to 12:30am at XS Night Club at the Encore Hotel. Tickets are $40 per person and you must be 21 or older to attend.
• NKBA Booth: Throughout KBIS, NKBA will host design-focused panel discussions at its booth (N939) in the North Hall, where a photographer will also be on hand to take free headshots.
KBIS 2025, taking place Feb-25-27, 2025 in Las Vegas, is the event of the year for kitchen & bath professionals to network, exchange ideas and see the industry’s newest offerings. Members can register here throughout September for FREE!
The online retailer’s exclusive program offers numerous perks to design pros.
Image courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond.
By Dianne M. Pogoda
Online retailer Bed Bath & Beyond’s exclusive Trade Program is a one-stop shop for designers and other specifiers looking to raise the style quotient while sticking to clients’ budgets.
Trade Program Members save 25 percent every day on a bigger-than-ever assortment of furniture, décor, rugs, appliances, fixtures and more. What’s more, trade pros get a free Welcome Rewards membership, which earns them 5 percent back on every purchase. Welcome Rewards also includes three free returns each month for in-store credit, and a 60-day extended return period allows clients to live with a piece and ensure it works well in their space.
The Rewards package also offers double rewards for reviews, bonus rewards for recommendations resulting in purchases, and three free price matches per month. And shipping is free on every order placed on a Trade account.
Bed Bath & Beyond Trade provides beneficial tools for busy pros and small business owners. The program aims to help make the design and selection process smooth and seamless. Designers may create a personalized design page to organize projects, share work, shop and update in real time. The design profile is hosted on the Bed Bath & Beyond platform and is shareable to a member’s social media, website, and/or directly to clients. Personalized support from dedicated expert Trade Specialists provides members with peace of mind — there’s always a friendly, familiar voice ready to help!
The Bed Bath & Beyond Trade program is free to join, and applying is easy. Provide a business name, contact information and additional business or professional verification, such as an employer identification number (EIN), to apply.
To learn more about this exclusive program for trade professionals and to join for free, click here.
NKBA | KBIS is thrilled to announce a new initiative set to launch in 2025. To enhance educational opportunities, NKBA | KBIS will offer free on-demand access to the Voices from the Industry (VFTI) Conference for student members.
The VFTI Conference, a cornerstone of KBIS, features a range of industry leaders and experts sharing valuable insights, trends, and innovations. Providing free on-demand access to VFTI supports educational growth and helps students build a strong foundation for their future careers. This forward-thinking approach ensures that emerging professionals are well-equipped with the latest insights and trends, positioning them for success in the ever-evolving kitchen and bath industry.
Students will benefit from accessing VFTI content at their convenience, staying abreast of industry developments, and enriching their academic experience. On-demand access for VFTI will be available to all NKBA | KBIS student members on February 27, 2025.
The Fabuwood Sponsored Grant Program is for Designers to Pursue Career Goals.
NKBA | KBIS has announced the recipients of the 2025 Certified Designer Grant Program, an initiative designed to support professional growth and certification within the kitchen and bath design industry.
Sponsored by Fabuwood, the 2025 program will provide grant funding to 25 designers pursuing NKBA’s prestigious Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer (CKBD) credential.
The grant reflects a shared commitment between NKBA and Fabuwood to elevate industry standards by investing in education, specialization, and long-term career advancement for design professionals. “Fabuwood is deeply committed to the future of our industry and to supporting designers seeking education and specialization,” said Peri Friedman, COO of Fabuwood. “Through our exclusive NKBA Certified Designer Grant Program, Fabuwood looks forward to working with our future Certified Kitchen and Bath Designers and to making it possible for them to accelerate their careers and achieve their goals.”
Supporting Excellence in Kitchen and Bath Design
NKBA certification is widely recognized as a benchmark of excellence within the kitchen and bath industry, validating a designer’s expertise in design principles, safety standards, construction practices, and professional ethics. The Certified Designer Grant Program helps remove financial barriers associated with certification, allowing experienced designers to further their credentials and strengthen their impact in the marketplace.
Grant recipients were selected based on strict qualifications, including:
Active NKBA membership
Current professional focus on kitchen and bath design
A minimum of two years of industry experience
At least one year specifically dedicated to kitchen and bath projects
2025 NKBA + Fabuwood Certified Designer Grant Recipients
The 2025 grant recipients represent a diverse group of professionals from across the country, each contributing to the advancement of the kitchen and bath industry:
Alli Hutchison, Hutch Design + Build
Alyssa Haggerty, Norfolk Kitchen & Bath
Amanda Cassity, Adalay Interiors
Andrea Robbins, ProSource Wholesale
Bethan Reilly, BR Design Group LLC
Bryan Marquardt, European Kitchen & Bath Works
Cayleigh McCusker, Euro Line Design
Ginger Rabe, Ginger Rabe Designs LLC
Hayden Bolin, Tracy’s Custom Homes
Jana Seda, 360 Construction and Design
Jason Miller, Cedar & Fig Interiors
Jenna Hagan, Residence Design Build Remodel
Jennifer Orr, Studio Red Interior Design
Jeremiah Dick, Cabinetry Ideas
Kacie Atkinson, Nar Design Group
Katherine Switzer-Cole, My Design Alternatives
Katia Ribeiro, Katia Ribeiro Design
Katie Hoffstatter, Flatbrook and Co.
Mary Farina, Main Street Kitchen & Bath LLC
Matt Finken, CKF
Michelle Lawrence, Michelle Lawrence Interior Design
Natalie Marzouka-Gould, Six Walls Interior Design
Renee Croome, Sakonnet Kitchen & Bath
Rhonnika Clifton, RJ Clifton Designs LLC
Rosalyn Shelstad, Hilltop Lumber
Investing in the Future of the Industry
By supporting certification, Fabuwood strengthens the professional foundation of the kitchen and bath industry. Certified designers bring increased credibility, technical expertise, and consumer confidence—benefiting clients, firms, and the industry as a whole.
As the demand for highly skilled kitchen and bath professionals continues to grow, programs like the NKBA + Fabuwood Certified Designer Grant Program play a critical role in ensuring designers have the resources they need to succeed and lead. Learn more about Fabuwood and professional development on our NKBA webinar on January 22, 2026.
As one of six winners of the annual NKBA | KBIS Student Design Competition, Montgomery College student Kateryna Ponomarova was awarded a scholarship for her outstanding work, earning Third Place in the Kitchen Category for 2025. Notably, Ponomarova also earned Third Place in the Bath Category, making her a two-time winner of the prestigious competition.
NKBA | KBIS recognizes the industry’s most promising emerging designers through its annual Design + Industry Awards, which include honors for the six Student Design Competition winners. The competition is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel, with scholarships awarded as follows: $5,000 for First Place, $2,500 for Second Place, and $1,000 for Third Place. Winners will be celebrated on Monday, February 16, from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando during KBIS 2026.
Ponomarova’s Third Place Kitchen project, Cranberry Bloom, stood out for its sophisticated balance of accessibility, historic preservation, and highly personal living-in-place design. Inspired by the enduring spirit of American craftsmanship, the project reimagines the kitchen of an 1895 Craftsman bungalow in Colorado Springs, Colorado, owned by retired anthropology professor Lydia Bachman.
Designed as a holistic renovation, Cranberry Bloom unifies the existing kitchen, pantry, and former office into a cohesive, open environment—while preserving Lydia’s beloved built-in hutch as an anchor of memory and identity.
Design Objectives
At the heart of the project is a commitment to living in place. The design prioritizes openness, accessibility, and adaptability to support Lydia’s lifestyle today and in the future.
Key objectives included:
Developing an open, accessible layout that supports aging in place while maintaining the home’s historic character.
Achieving a refined Craftsman aesthetic through the thoughtful integration of contemporary fixtures and appliances.
Incorporating seating for four, wine storage, and entertaining zones to reflect Lydia’s love of hosting.
Designing a dedicated dog-feeding area for Lydia’s two golden retrievers, who are integral to daily life.
Including a herb garden to support Lydia’s passion for gardening and cooking with fresh ingredients.
Design Challenges
Ponomarova addressed several architectural and ergonomic challenges inherent to the historic bungalow:
Managing varying ceiling heights resulting from the original gable roof construction.
Ensuring smooth, accessible transitions between spaces for Lydia and her guests, including those with mobility challenges.
Designing for Lydia’s reach distances, accounting for her height (5’1”) and age, to maintain comfort and usability.
Design Solutions
Rather than minimizing constraints, the design leverages them as opportunities.
Ceiling height variation establishes spatial hierarchy: taller ceilings in the kitchen and dining areas create openness and visual flow, while lower ceilings in adjacent rooms foster intimacy and calm.
A galley kitchen layout with more than 60 inches of clearance between activity zones ensures accessible circulation. Continuous flooring supports mobility aids, while dual counter heights accommodate multiple tasks.
Soft-close, pull-out cabinetry minimizes physical strain, reinforcing a user-centered approach.
The kitchen is designed to adapt over time, with the option to expand the east-side unit to accommodate a larger refrigerator or additional workspace.
Entertaining is supported through custom banquette seating for four in the Bordeaux Lounge, designed to maximize space while remaining wheelchair accessible. For daily use, island seating offers casual dining for two.
Special Features & Materiality
Cranberry Bloom blends performance and personality through a series of bespoke details:
Premium Fisher & Paykel appliances, selected for performance, longevity, and design integrity.
A custom dog-feeding station with a wall-mounted pot filler for daily convenience.
A coffered ceiling with an artistic stained-glass light fixture, reinforcing the home’s Craftsman heritage.
Handcrafted walnut room dividers with stained-glass insets, subtly defining spaces while maintaining openness.
A smart, hydroponic herb garden integrated into a wall cabinet, providing fresh produce year-round with minimal effort.
The kitchen’s palette—rich cranberry tones, Rosso Levanto marble, warm ivory cabinetry, and natural textures—adds depth and warmth. A bold cranberry-hued range and pyramid chimney hood by Fisher & Paykel form the visual heart of the space.
Spatially, movement is guided along a central axis: from the dining area toward a curated alcove displaying Lydia’s treasured objects, framed by columns and arches that define public and private zones. The former office becomes the Bordeaux Lounge, a welcoming destination for wine and coffee tastings, while the former pantry evolves into a kitchen extension with island seating and concealed dog-feeding storage.
The result is a kitchen that supports Lydia’s vibrant lifestyle—hosting guests, caring for her dogs, gardening, and cooking—while honoring the home’s historic soul.
About the NKBA | KBIS Student Design Competition
The NKBA Student Design Competition allows emerging designers to showcase their talent on an industry-wide stage and gain invaluable visibility. Winning entries are recognized at KBIS, featured in NKBA editorial content, and awarded scholarships.
How to Enter
Open exclusively to NKBA Student Members enrolled in an educational institution at the time of submission.
Students may enter the kitchen competition, the bath competition, or both.
Entries must follow NKBA Graphics & Presentation Standards and include dimensioned drawings, renderings, a concept board, and a 500–1000-word design statement.
Projects must be submitted through Award Force, where students can upload, edit, and finalize materials.
Submission Deadline:
June 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET
Incomplete entries will be disqualified.
Awards:
First Place — $5,000
Second Place — $2,500
Third Place — $1,000
Winners also receive complimentary registration, airfare, hotel accommodations, and access to KBIS 2027 in Las Vegas.
Competition Scenario: 2025–2026 — “The Great Indoors: Texas Edition”
This year’s participants are tasked with reimagining the kitchen and primary bath of the Williams-Garcia family home in Dallas’s Preston Hollow neighborhood. The challenge invites students to design for a bustling household of five that values hospitality, family connection, and high-functioning spaces for cooking, gathering, and retreat.
Students must balance bold style, functionality, accessibility, and clever space-planning to create environments that support the family today—and adapt gracefully for years to come.
Grohe Launches Luxury Sub-Brand: Premium faucet and fittings brand Grohe introduced a luxury sub-brand, GROHE SPA, dedicated to “wellness through water,” at the World Architecture Festival in Miami. Grohe, part of the LIXIL family of brands, is a founding sponsor of WAF, which made its U.S. debut last month. GROHE SPA represents the evolution of wellness through design, said the company, allowing designers and architects to create multi-sensory bathroom environments with minimalist design and precision engineering in myriad finishes and exclusive handle materials. The brand will roll out nationwide late next year. Learn more here.
Image courtesy of Hestan.
Hestan Opens Napa Showcase: High-end culinary brand Hestan opened its first brand store in Napa, CA, in November. The store was designed by Kerrie Kelly, Creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studios in Sacramento and Chair of the NKBA Board of Directors. It features its premium Italian-made cookware, U.S.-produced Hestan appliances, wine from Hestan Vineyards in Napa Valley, and includes a restaurant with dishes from Michelin-star Chef Mark Dommen. The design blends sleek, modern style with warm, natural textures and can accommodate up to 60 guests for private events. Homepage News has more details.
SKS was the premier appliance sponsor of the second annual Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, SC. Courtesy of SKS.
SKS Joins Food & Wine Classic: Luxury appliance brand SKS returned to the second annual Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, SC, last month, as the premier appliance sponsor. The brand showcased its “True to Food” philosophy for Technicureans™ with live demos that highlighted the precision and versatility of its appliances, including pro-ranges with built-in sous vide, wall ovens with Gourmet AI™ technology, and wine refrigerators with exclusive preservation features. SKS Executive Chef Nick Ritchie and his team were on hand throughout the two-day event, creating Lowcountry-inspired cuisine like pumpkin-coconut bisque, seared crab cakes with salsa verde, sous vide New York Loin with grilled scallions and black garlic vinaigrette, steamed local shrimp and savory chocolate truffles. SKS coined the phrase “Technicurean” to celebrate home chefs with as much passion for cooking craftsmanship as for high-end home technology. Learn more here.
LIXIL Partners with WorldSkills: Plumbing and housing products manufacturer LIXIL has teamed up as a Global Industry Partner with WorldSkills International, a global movement that raises the profile and recognition of skilled people through competitions, outreach, and by influencing industry, government, and educators across 89 member countries and regions. The collaboration reaffirms LIXIL’s long-standing commitment to vocational education and training to help alleviate the critical shortage of skilled plumbers and installers worldwide, and to address this global issue by partnering to foster and empower a new generation of professionals. KBB has the story.
Ross Bradford is president of Currey & Co. Courtesy of Currey & Co.
Leadership Changes at Currey & Co.: Lighting and home furnishings specialist Currey & Co. has named Ross Bradford president, Mary M. Wilson vice president of key accounts, and Drew Alden as director of furniture. Bradford takes over the president’s role from owner Brownlee Currey, who remains CEO. Bradford has been VP of strategy and business development at Currey, and previously held executive roles with Samsung, Bosch, Thermador, Gaggenau, and others. Wilson joins the company from Cyan Design, where she was director of design, and Alden previously oversaw key categories at Havertys Furniture. Designers Today has more.
Chapter Updates
Chapter Officer Training Dates Set: Incoming NKBA Chapter officers are required to attend virtual training in January, in addition to live training on-site at KBIS on Feb. 16. Virtual training is by officer positions as follows (all times are Eastern). Links will be sent in January. Presidents: Tuesday, Jan. 6, 4 pm; Programs Chairs: Tuesday, Jan. 13, 3 pm; Communications Chairs: Tuesday, Jan. 13, 4 pm; Membership Chairs: Wednesday, Jan.14, 3 pm; Secretary/Treasurers: Wednesday, Jan. 14, 4 pm.
Industry News
Home Sales Edge Up: Sales of existing homes inched up 1.2 percent in October from September and increased 1.7 percent year-over-year compared to October 2024, according to the National Association of Realtors. October saw a 2.1% increase YOY in the median existing-home sales price to $415,200. It was the 28th consecutive month of YOY price increases. The slight bump in sales could be partially attributed to a dip in the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage to 6.25 percent, down from 6.35 percent in September and from 6.43 percent a year ago. More detail here.
Frank Gehry Dies: One of the most celebrated architects of the 20th Century, Frank Gehry, died after a brief respiratory illness on Dec. 5 at his home in Santa Monica, Calif. He was 96. His distinctive building designs were inspired by his fascination with modern art and pop culture. Among his most notable designs were the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain; the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, Berlin’s DZ Bank Building, and the 76-story New York By Gehry building, one of the world’s tallest residential structures when it opened in 2011. The Pritzker Prize-winning architect also designed an expansion of Facebook’s Northern California headquarters at the insistence of Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of the social media giant. He taught at Yale, Columbia, and became a professor of architecture at his alma mater, the University of Southern California. Working well into his nineties, his last project, the Guggenheim Museum in Abu Dhabi, is expected to be finished in 2026 after a series of construction delays. The 30,000-square-foot structure will be the world’s largest Guggenheim. The Associated Press has more.
Robert A.M. Stern Dies: Acclaimed architect Robert A.M. Stern, founder of his namesake architecture firm, died Nov. 27 after a brief pulmonary illness. He was 86. The prize-winning architect designed residences, commercial properties, hotels, institutional projects, and public spaces, and taught at Columbia University and the Yale School of Architecture, where he was Dean 1998 to 2016, in a career that spanned half a century. Born in 1939 in Brooklyn, Stern built his practice in New York and was a champion of “modern traditionalism” in architecture. He rose to international fame when he designed one of the city’s most famous residences, 15 Central Park West, consisting of two limestone-clad buildings of 19 and 35 stories. It was hailed as a “rebirth of prewar luxury,” and apartments were sold out before construction was finished. Celebrities, Wall Street titans, sports stars, and other bold-faced names drove sales north of $2 billion. In an interview with the New York Times, Stern called it his “breakthrough,” and noted that he never used a computer, preferring to draw everything by hand. Among his other notable projects were Disney World’s yacht and beach club resorts in Florida, the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy in Ann Arbor, Mich., and the Comcast Center and Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. He is survived by a son, a brother, and three grandchildren. Read more here.
Here are 20 of the NKBA members’ big news, moves, updates, and deals of 2025.
By NKBA Staff
Expansions, New Plants, and Showrooms
The GE Profile UltraFast Combo Washer/Dryer will be made at GE Appliances’ Kentucky plant. Courtesy of GEA.
GEA Invests in KY: GE Appliances, a Haier company, initiated a nearly half-billion-dollar investment in its Louisville, KY, global headquarters and largest manufacturing site to create its most advanced plant to produce washing machines. The $490 million project creates 800 new, full-time jobs, positions the company to become the biggest American washer manufacturer, and builds on GE Appliances’ 10-year, $3.5 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing.
Cosentino Opens in Three Cities: Global surfacing giant Cosentino Group opened three signature Cosentino City showrooms in Dallas, Richmond, VA (the first in those regions), and Honolulu. Each represents an investment of more than $1.5 million, bringing the total number of City showrooms to 12 in the U.S. and 41 worldwide.
Image courtesy of Fabuwood.
Fabuwood Forges West: Semi-custom cabinetry company Fabuwood has launched a strategic initiative that includes opening a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Tijuana, Mexico, and an upgraded distribution center in Southern California. Benefits include cutting delivery times to the West Coast, lower shipping costs, and less environmental impact.
LIXIL Launched Water Experience Center: Plumbing and housing products giant LIXIL opened a 10,000-square-foot interactive Water Experience Center in New York’s Flatiron District. The space showcases kitchen and bath solutions from LIXIL’s brands — American Standard, GROHE, DXV, INAX, and Basco — and offers an immersive experience for architects, designers, and consumers.
ASKO Opened Experience Center in Spain: Marking the 75th anniversary of the invention of its washing machine, ASKO opened its first Experience Center in Spain. The center, in central Madrid, showcases ASKO’s cooking appliances, laundry care, and dishwashers, and features a wine cellar with the brand’s climate-controlled wine cabinets and space for cooking demonstrations and events.
True Expands in Missouri: Luxury refrigeration brand True Residential opened a 2,100-square-foot showroom in Clayton, MO, near its headquarters and plant in O’Fallon, MO. The space features five distinct vignettes showcasing True’s full-size, indoor/outdoor, and undercounter refrigeration, wine cabinets, refrigerator drawers, beverage centers, and more.
Image courtesy of BSH.
BSH’s NC Investment: BHS Home Appliances said it would invest more than $11 million and add 199 jobs to transform its New Bern, NC, facility into a hub for manufacturing and R&D in the U.S. BSH, parent of the Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau brands, is globally headquartered in Munich, Germany, and has a U.S. base in California.
SKS Opened in Chicago: SKS, the luxury appliance brand under the LG Electronics umbrella, opened an Experience & Design Center in Chicago’s landmark The Mart design building. The nearly 9,000-square-foot space, designed by renowned architect Piero Lissoni, features interactive kitchen vignettes by Arclinea and more than 50 SKS appliances, and is SKS’ third EDC in the U.S. after Napa Valley and Englewood Cliffs, NJ.
Vadara Expanded Into the UK: Leading quartz surfaces producer Vadara began an international expansion through a distribution partnership with UK-based The Thomas Group and its brand, The Surface Collection, as part of its global growth strategy. Australia is next, with future opportunities across Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, and other high-potential regions.
Officine Gullo Opened in Dallas: Florence, luxury Italian appliance and kitchen manufacturer Officine Gullo, an NKBA Global Connect member, opened a 4,000-square-foot showroom in Dallas in a former art gallery. It is the company’s seventh flagship gallery in the U.S., with two locations in New York, and sites in Boston, Miami, Palm Beach, and Los Angeles.
Deals, Partnerships, and Updates
LIXIL, American Bath In Partnership: LIXIL Americas and American Bath Group formed a strategic partnership in North America to expand LIXIL’s bath-sector brands, including American Standard, DXV, and Elger. LIXIL licensed exclusive rights to ABG to produce and distribute bath products under the three brands, and ABG acquired LIXIL’s manufacturing facility in Salem, OH, and part of its manufacturing assets in Mansfield, OH, and Monterrey, Mexico.
Caesarstone, Grohe in Deal: Premium surface maker Caesarstone partnered with Grohe Spa, a premium sub-brand of Grohe, to craft faucet handles inlaid with quartz designs. Grohe Spa’s luxury faucets in the Atrio and Allure Brilliant private collections may be paired with Caesarstone countertops in the same designs and finishes to create a seamless look in the bathroom.
Image courtesy of Kohler.
Kohler Signed Martha Stewart: Kohler Co. named Martha Stewart as its Kohler Cast Iron Ambassador, the first such role for the company. Stewart, a longtime user and personal advocate of enameled cast iron, collaborates with Kohler on its enameled cast iron collection, including beautifully crafted baths, shower bases, bathroom sinks, and kitchen sinks in an array of colors and styles, ranging from classic to contemporary.
True, Urban Bonfire Collaborated on Outdoor: Luxury refrigeration and professional grill manufacturer True Caliber partnered with outdoor cooking specialist Urban Bonfire to launch a new collection of outdoor kitchen layouts. The collaboration is centered on the Rockwell Social Grill by Caliber, which pairs Urban Bonfire’s powder-coated finishes with True Caliber’s signature bold hues, in configurations including L-shaped, galley, straight, and other custom designs.
Century Communities Selected LG: Century Communities, a leading national home builder, chose LG Electronics USA’s LG Pro Builder division as its national appliance supplier. The deal supplies LG kitchen and laundry appliances to Century’s two homebuilding brands — Century Communities and Century Complete — which operate in 16 states and more than 45 markets across the country.
Rev-A-Shelf Acquired InnovaShelf: Kitchen storage and organization leader Rev-A-Shelf acquired InnovaShelf, a manufacturer of hardware, brackets, and shelving. The deal follows a strategic alliance in February in which Rev-A-Shelf became the exclusive worldwide distributor of the InnovaShelf brand.
LOTTE’s Distribution Deals: LOTTE Chemical, a California manufacturer of high-end engineered quartz surfaces under the Belanco and Radianz Quartz brands, entered a deal with Chicago-based EKO Stone to promote, sell, and distribute Radianz across the Midwest U.S. market. LOTTE also partnered with Texas Counter Fitters (TCF Supply) to sell its surfaces throughout the South-Central U.S., and with Kalacatta Stone LLC, which now distributes LOTTE’s Belanco quartz.
Wilsonart Acquired Virginia Tile Business: Wilsonart acquired Virginia Tile’s woodworking products distribution business, which is headquartered in Kansas City, KS, with branches across Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. These locations distribute decorative surfaces, cabinet accessories, and decorative and functional hardware.
A kitchen from the new Kodiak Interiors Group. Courtesy of KIG.
Kodiak Launched Interiors: Building materials distributor Kodiak Building Partners launched Kodiak Interiors Group, a stand-alone business formed through the sale of Kodiak’s appliances and interiors portfolio. The new entity operates independently, is focused on appliances and interiors, and includes existing companies such as Arizona Appliance & Home, Don’s Appliances, FBS Appliance, and Specialty Appliance.
Ferguson’s New Name: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery introduced its new name at KBIS 2025 and now operates as Ferguson Home. The business includes more than 250 showrooms and over 1,200 product experts.
Thyme & Place Named a Top Blog: Thyme & Place Design, owned by NKBA member Sharon L. Sherman, CKD, ASID, CID, NCIDQ, was named one of the top 100 interior design blogs for 2025 by Feedspot, a media database. Sherman founded her award-winning design-build firm in 2002 in Wyckoff, NJ, and is a member of the Manhattan Chapter.
As 2025 comes to a close, we can all agree that it was anything but boring: economic ups and downs, innovations and breakthroughs. Through it all, the kitchen and bath industry remained strong and resilient. Here we celebrate 2025 by looking back at top trends, stories, and events. Sit back, scroll, view, and enjoy!
“2025 reminded us that even in uncertain times, our industry’s strength comes from its community. The NKBA remained proactive — leveraging research, advocacy, and global collaboration to support our 55,000 members. Thank you for continuing to push our industry forward.”
Meet the Induction Pro Range: the pinnacle of speed and control. Featuring the most powerful center induction element and the innovative Steam-Combi™ Oven, this range redefines kitchen performance. The sleek black glass top delivers unmatched power with a 7,000W dual-center element. Intuitive Smart Knobs™ and an LCD Touch Screen offer precise, effortless control.
From record-setting shows to milestone celebrations, these moments defined a transformative year for the Association.
As the global kitchen and bath industry continued to evolve, NKBA marked 2025 with a series of standout events that showcased innovation, strengthened international partnerships, and brought the community together in meaningful new ways.
KBIS 2025 delivered one of its most dynamic editions yet, drawing industry leaders, designers, manufacturers, and global partners for three days of discovery, networking, and product innovation. New exhibitors, immersive activations, and expanded programming across the KBIS Next Stage and the newly enhanced Halls elevated the show’s impact. This year’s event underscored KBIS’s continued leadership as the world’s largest dedicated kitchen and bath industry platform and set the tone for what’s ahead in 2026.
NKBA’s expanding role at High Point Market marked a significant milestone for 2025. Through its presence at Broad Hall and partnership with the High Point Market Authority, the Association deepened cross-category collaboration among lighting, furnishings, outdoor products, appliances, and bath brands. The experience supported a long-term strategy to connect the broader interior design and home furnishings communities. The result: new relationships, new visibility, and new pathways for members to explore the intersections of whole-home design.
NKBA Global Connect significantly broadened its international footprint in 2025, connecting with manufacturers, associations, and industry leaders across multiple continents. The program strengthened North American–global collaboration through a series of major visits and presentations.
NKBA | KBIS continued its strong engagement in the U.K. by attending InstallerSHOW, which brought together more than 800 exhibitors and tens of thousands of installers, specifiers, and decision-makers. The team met with NKBA members, conducted micro-interviews, explored emerging technologies, and hosted the North American Kitchen & Bath Design Business Breakfast, where they shared the latest economic and design data along with a preview of KBIS 2026. This visit further deepened connections with British associations and manufacturers and underscored Global Connect’s mission to facilitate international industry growth.
NKBA’s visit to Brazil showcased the vibrancy of the country’s kitchen, bath, furniture, and stone industries. From high-design showrooms in São Paulo to natural stone production facilities in Vitória, the trip strengthened relationships with Brazilian brands and associations—including CentroRochas, Abimóvel, and leading manufacturers across cabinetry, appliances, furniture, and surfacing. The journey highlighted Brazil’s bold design culture, deep craftsmanship, and material innovation, while introducing new opportunities for collaboration with the North American market.
NKBA | KBIS continued to build strong ties in Europe with another successful presence at Küchenmeile. NKBA leaders met with strategic partners VDM, AMK, and Trendfairs to align on future initiatives and global market integration. Global President & CEO Bill Darcy delivered a keynote on North American market perspectives, sharing proprietary research and guidance to help German and European brands navigate the U.S. kitchen and bath landscape. The visit reinforced Global Connect’s long-term commitment to an integrated global industry.
Interzum provided a significant platform for NKBA to present the latest North American market data to international manufacturers and innovators. As one of the world’s leading fairs for furniture production and interior design, interzum offered a prime stage for NKBA to share economic insights, channel structures, remodeling trends, and factors influencing growth in the residential kitchen and bath sector. NKBA’s participation helped global brands better understand the North American market and how to prepare for entry or expansion.
NKBA’s Women2Women initiative continued to flourish in 2025, bringing together women from across the industry for leadership development, candid conversations, and peer-driven mentorship. W2W delivered compelling programming that addressed professional growth, work-life balance, confidence-building, and entrepreneurship. Its events and digital engagements provided safe, energizing spaces for women to connect, learn, and champion one another—strengthening W2W’s role as a pillar of NKBA community culture.
The NKBA Northern California Chapter marked its 50th anniversary with a series of meaningful celebrations honoring its legacy of volunteerism, leadership, and community impact. Members gathered for a lively 1970s-themed celebration, launched a digital storytelling series, and created a time capsule that will be opened at the chapter’s 75th anniversary in 2050. The milestone reflected not only the chapter’s decorated history—including multiple NKBA Star Awards—but also its commitment to inclusivity, student engagement, community support, and the next generation of industry leadership.
Get the latest NKBA member news, products and events.
Corporate Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities
Thanks to our Partners/Sponsors!
NKBA would like to thank our partners and sponsors who have supported our industry and programs. Come back regularly to see who we are working with.
Corporate Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is a not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS®). With thousands of companies representing tens of thousands of members in segments of the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA has educated and led the kitchen and bath industry since its founding in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to enhance member success and excellence, promote professionalism and ethical business practices, and provide leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath industry worldwide.
In February 2014, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the NKBA launched Design & Construction Week®, as the International Builders’ Show (IBS) and KBIS® co-located for the very first time. Building upon that success, the two trade shows will continue to co-locate together through 2020, providing plenty of opportunities for you to boost your brand at one of the world’s largest gatherings focused on new ideas, products and technologies to design, build and remodel homes.
KBIS® presents the ideal platform to help you establish your organization’s presence among the most influential professionals in the industry network! This is your opportunity to support our most comprehensive learning initiatives such as the Voices from the Industry conference program and enhance your visibility amidst a wide audience profile at key networking events such as THE BASH, The NKBA Design and Industry Awards, the Thirty Under 30 Program, and more. Look through our opportunities brochure to read in detail about how you can benefit by aligning your brand with our exclusive industry offerings.
For more information or to sponsor an event, contact:
“Kohler® focuses on building genuine relationships with our customers. Kohler’s NKBA membership has allowed us to connect with all segments of the industry.”
