Search Results for “members” – Page 3 – NKBA

Don’t Miss Voices from the Industry at KBIS 2026 — Learn More >

Become a Member
Back

NKBA Chapter Leaders Unite at Leader2Leader Ahead of KBIS 2026

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Feb 16, 2026 10:45 pm

KBIS 2026News

More than 300 NKBA chapter officers from across the United States and Canada gathered in Orlando, FL, this week for NKBA | KBIS Leader2Leader (L2L), the annual leadership summit designed exclusively for the association’s volunteer chapter leaders.

Held each year the day before KBIS officially opens, Leader2Leader brings together representatives from NKBA’s 70 chapters for a full day of inspiration, education, and collaboration. The exchange of ideas, energy, and best practices makes L2L one of the most anticipated events of the year.

This year’s program was made possible through the generous support of Platinum Sponsors Cosentino, Fabuwood, Kohler, and Miele, along with Gold Sponsor Kichler Lighting.

Leadership Welcome and Industry Commitment

NKBA | KBIS Board Chair Kerrie Kelly, CEO and Creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studio, opened the event at the Orange County Convention Center, welcoming attendees “from across the continent” and thanking them for the “time, energy, and heart” they dedicate to their chapters throughout the year.

Kelly introduced the NKBA | KBIS Board of Directors, including Vice Chair Scott Edmunds of Kohler; Secretary/Treasurer Michael Gross of Whirlpool; and board members Eduardo Cosentino of Cosentino Group, Nicola Bertazzoni of Bertazzoni Group; Jill Ehnes of Delta Faucet Company; and Peri Friedman of Fabuwood. She also recognized two new board members: Alena Capra, CMKBD, of Alena Capra Studio, and Vijay Shankar of Coleto Group.

Kelly acknowledged NKBA Global President and CEO Bill Darcy before introducing Deb Webb, NKBA Executive Vice President, Operations and KBIS. Webb expressed gratitude to chapter officers for their ongoing leadership.

“You’re the ones building community and showing up month after month,” she said. “You are the driving force in our industry and an inspiring example to your members.”

Webb also thanked the event sponsors, whose support enabled more 330 chapter officers to attend L2L and KBIS.

Investing in the Future Workforce

Special guest Mark Pursell, President and CEO of the National Housing Endowment (NHE), addressed the group on the critical need for skilled labor initiatives and workforce education in the homebuilding industry.

Bill Darcy joined him onstage to present a $50,000 check to NHE’s Skilled Labor Fund, reinforcing NKBA’s longstanding commitment to addressing workforce challenges.

In a surprise announcement, Pursell introduced a new Chapter Star Award for Best Skilled Labor Event, presenting the inaugural honor to NKBA’s San Diego Chapter. The award will become a permanent category within the Chapter Star Awards program.

Expanding Industry Partnerships

Leader2Leader also welcomed representatives from the High Point Market Authority, reflecting NKBA’s strategic partnership formed last year. Through this collaboration, NKBA established a dynamic hub in Broad Hall at High Point Market, integrating kitchen, bath, design, and luxury lifestyle into the broader whole-home conversation.

Inspired by Patty Dominguez of Cosentino and designed by Kerrie Kelly, the NKBA space became a vibrant gathering point during the Fall Market. High Point Market Authority President and CEO Tammy Covington highlighted the value of attending both spring and fall markets and shared updates on continued collaboration between the two organizations.

Keynote: Building Momentum Through Excitement

Keynote speaker Chip Wade energized attendees with his presentation, Built to Be Excited: Turning Work into Momentum. Drawing from a recent large-scale, design-forward build, Wade illustrated how intentionally building excitement into a project creates the momentum needed to move teams from concept to completion.

Through compelling visual storytelling, Wade explored how to spark anticipation early, maintain focus through the inevitable “messy middle,” and finish strong with pride and purpose. He emphasized that clarity, thoughtful planning, visible progress, and disciplined execution naturally elevate engagement and results.

New Programs and Milestone Celebrations

Kelly Buchsbaum, NKBA Director, Chapters & Professional Development, thanked the hundreds of chapter officers for their dedication and commitment and introduced the NKBA team, including Kristin Shechter, Melissa Flynn, Elizabeth Mace, Kelly Ann Ryan, and Robert Novellino. 

Kelly Ann Ryan, Sr. Manager, Professional Development, unveiled new initiatives to launch in 2026, including a Student Mentor Program and a new-to-KBIS VFTI Wine & Design program featuring spotlight panel discussions.

In another first, NKBA invited the University of Alabama Student Chapter to attend Leader2Leader, with chapter officers and advisors participating in both L2L and KBIS programming.

NKBA Chapters Engagement Manager Kristin Shechter recognized the five chapter officers who were inducted into the class of 2026 Thirty Under 30 program. She also congratulated three chapters on milestone anniversaries this year. Texas Gulf Coast, Texas Hill Country, and Texas North Plains each marked 25 years of service and were honored with Silver Anniversary awards.

Melissa Flynn, NKBA Chapters & Skilled Trades Manager, encouraged all 70 chapters to develop skilled trades events this year and to apply for the NHE Skilled Labor Fund grant. Earlier in the L2L program, Flynn introduced keynote speaker Chip Wade, who also has a focus on building up the trades. 

Recognizing Excellence: Chapter Star Awards

A highlight of Leader2Leader each year is the NKBA Chapter Star Awards ceremony, recognizing outstanding leadership and innovative programming across chapters.

This year’s Best Chapter Events winners included:

  • Best Collaboration: Prairie Provinces and British Columbia
  • Best Community Initiatives: Alaska and Metro New York
  • Best Design Competition: Georgia
  • Best Membership Campaign: Manhattan
  • Best NKBA Spirit: Northern California
  • Best Student Event: Indiana State
  • Best Overall Event: Metro New York

Individual Chapter Star Awards honored:

  • Gloria Clark, California Capital (President)
  • Jason Miller, Arizona (President)
  • Emma Winn, Columbia River (Programs Chair)
  • Brittany Loeffler, Susquehanna Valley (Communications Chair)
  • Joel Villasenor, California Capital (Membership Chair)
  • Christal Gress, CKBD, California Capital (Secretary/Treasurer)
  • Rose Ott, Manhattan (Committee Member)

Joel Villasenor of California Capital was named Chapter Officer of the Year.

Collaboration and Connection

Following the awards ceremony and a surprise trip giveaway from High Point Market Authority, attendees participated in breakout sessions tailored to the five chapter officer roles. The sessions featured peer-led best practice discussions facilitated by NKBA staff and members of the NKBA 2026 Chapter Leadership Committee, including Sadie Anderson (Nebraska/Kansas), Kimberly Kerl (Piedmont Blue Ridge Carolina), Jason Miller (Arizona), Rima Nasr (Texas Gulf Coast), and Brianna Weiler (Mid Atlantic).

As Leader2Leader concluded, chapter officers left energized and equipped with new ideas, strengthened connections, and renewed momentum to lead their chapters into the year ahead.

Sponsored by:

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

2026 Kitchen & Bath Hall of Fame Inductee: Ric Coggins

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Feb 16, 2026 9:30 pm

KBIS 2026News

Coggins, who died in 2023, was a pillar of NKBA, particularly in the Arizona Chapter.

By NKBA Staff

Induction into the Kitchen & Bath Hall of Fame is one of the highest honors the NKBA bestows on industry luminaries. Since 1989, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Hall of Fame has honored nearly 100 individuals who have contributed to the growth and professionalism of the Association and the overall kitchen and bath industry. This year, one person has earned that distinction.

Ric Coggins, a true gentleman and a pillar in the NKBA community, specifically in the Arizona Chapter, is the 2026 K&B Hall of Fame inductee.

Sadly, Coggins died in January 2023 — at KBIS, just before the show opened — while he was setting up for an event, even though technically, he was retired. He was a selfless volunteer, a remarkable professional, and an even better man. His kitchen and bath résumé spanned five decades and reflected his dedication to the Association, his business, and the people he worked with.

Ric was a Chapter volunteer and officer, and a National Leader who held multiple posts, actively serving NKBA since 2004. He is still considered one of the greatest contributors to the Arizona Chapter, where he served as President in 2009 and 2010, among other roles.

At the National level, he served on the Manufacturers Council and, in 2014, was elected to NKBA’s Executive Committee as National Vice President. These roles require significant time and dedication, and that’s on top of the demands of running a thriving business.

Throughout the course of his nearly 50-year career, he was involved in multiple aspects of the kitchen, bath, and home industry, including design, sales, and marketing. He owned a high-end kitchen appliance center in Irvine, California, and, for the last two decades of his career, worked in sales for international appliance manufacturer BSH on regional, national, and international assignments.  His dedication to Bosch, especially, was evident throughout his career, and he helped build the brand’s reputation in the U.S.

After retiring, Ric remained very active in the Arizona Chapter, where he served as a consultant and continued to strengthen the members of the Chapter by sharing his wisdom and knowledge.

One of his nominators captured the essence of Ric with this wonderful story of a moment that came when he was on the NKBA Executive Committee. It speaks to his character, leadership, and giving nature.

After a long day of strategic meetings, a group of younger chapter leaders lingered with questions about how to engage members and build stronger programs. Rather than heading off to dinner with his peers, Ric pulled chairs into a circle and spent hours coaching these emerging leaders one-on-one. He asked about their goals, offered practical advice from his decades of experience, and followed up with each of them weeks later to check on their progress.

That was Ric’s hallmark: He treated everyone, from new chapter volunteers to national board members, with the same respect and generosity of time. His peers recall that he never sought recognition — he simply wanted others to succeed. This mentoring moment was repeated countless times, whether in hallways at KBIS, on calls with Arizona Chapter leaders, or in his own community. Ric’s legacy is not only in his professional achievements, but also in the many professionals whose careers and confidence were shaped because he paused to listen, guide, and encourage.

HoF inductees are selected by a standing program committee through member nominations. Visit the Kitchen & Bath Hall of Fame to see all the honorees and watch for nominations to open later this year.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

NKBA | KBIS Design Council

The NKBA Design Council brings together influential designers whose perspectives, experience, and creativity help shape the future of the kitchen and bath industry. Created to amplify the voice of the design community, the council provides insight, inspiration, and real-world expertise that supports NKBA’s mission to elevate professionalism across the industry.

NKBA Design Council at KBIS 2024.

The NKBA Design Council:
Where Insight Meets Innovation

Throughout the year, council members serve as ambassadors for NKBA | KBIS, sharing their knowledge through trend reports, industry events, and educational programming. From identifying emerging styles and materials to discussing the business and cultural forces shaping the profession, the council helps keep the community informed, inspired, and connected.

At KBIS and beyond, the Design Council collaborates with NKBA to spotlight innovation, highlight key trends, and engage with the broader design audience. Members participate in panel discussions, content creation, and special appearances, showcasing the ideas and products defining the next era of kitchen and bath design.

What the Design Council Does

Trendspotting: Identifies emerging design directions and product innovations across the industry.
Thought Leadership: Contributes insights to NKBA reports, content, and educational programming.
Industry Engagement: Participates in panels, events, and special initiatives throughout the year.
Community Connection: Inspires and supports designers at every stage of their careers.

Meet the 2026 NKBA Design Council

Here are the designers who will represent the NKBA | KBIS Design Council in 2026.

Previous Design Council Members:

Here is a list of designers who served as NKBA | KBIS Design Council members from 2024 through 2025.

Design Council Press Coverage

Coffee in the Closet, Diet Coke on Tap

10 intriguing kitchen and bath trends for 2026 from NKBA

NKBA Makes Mark at High Point Market

Say Goodbye to White Cabinetry, Plus More Kitchen Trends for 2025

Design Trends: Spa Bathrooms Today and Tomorrow

NKBA | KBIS Announces First-Ever Design Council

Back

Welcome to KBIS 2026!

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Feb 10, 2026 4:17 pm

KBIS 2026
Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

KBIS continues to raise the bar each year, and 2026 promises NKBA’s most dynamic experience yet. Across all three days, you’ll discover expanded programming, exclusive events, and immersive activations that showcase the future of kitchen and bath design.

This year, NKBA | KBIS is embracing new opportunities throughout the Orange County Convention Center, including an elevated presence across South and West Halls. These locations position the association alongside a vibrant mix of emerging partners, international brands participating in NKBA’s Global Connect program, and designers and manufacturers pushing innovation for the whole home. For those shaping the high-end client, the third-annual LUXURY Lounge, sponsored by Ferguson Home, brings together leaders defining the next chapter of luxe kitchen and bath design.

Here are just a few highlights at KBIS 2026.

• The NEXTStage amplifies the conversations that matter most, covering whole-home design, research, business strategy, emerging technologies, cultural insights, wellness, and sustainability. See more than 20 forward-looking programs delivered by energetic daily hosts, including the Best of KBIS awards and Thirty Under 30 introductions. NKBA’s Thirty Under 30 program is sponsored by Fabuwood and Kohler Co.

• The Discovery District, located inside the Rosen Centre Hotel and connected directly to West Hall via skybridge, is home to a plethora of fresh ideas. This lively destination blends innovation, food, lounge areas, and hands-on experiences. 

• The Voices From the Industry Conference offers more than 50 on-site and on-demand sessions with CEU credits and actionable insights across business, design, technology, and professional development. Enjoy the new daily Wine & Design events, daily from 3 to 4 pm for VFTI attendees who pre-register. These educational, interactive presentations offer a relaxed atmosphere for networking and continued learning. VFTI is sponsored by Fabuwood.

• State of the Industry keynote, following the State of the Association address, on Wednesday, Feb. 18, starting at 8:30 am in Room S320 E at the Convention Center. This year, we are thrilled to welcome keynote speaker Jaye Anna Mize, Vice President of Advisory + Partnerships at global trend-forecasting agency Future Snoops. Mize will provide a broad look at the major forces influencing kitchen, bath, and whole-home design today, highlighting cultural, technological, and economic dynamics shaping our lives. She will point out key paradigm shifts and translate them into practical considerations for the year ahead. Her presentation will set the stage for 2026 strategies.

• The NKBA Booth (#S25058) will offer free professional headshots courtesy of Ferguson Home, available all three days with no pre-registration required. Also in the booth, participate in engaging programming and NKBA Global Connect activations featuring international brands eager to introduce their products to North America. Don’t miss these opportunities to interact and network with our staff and Global Connect members.

• Wednesday night, unwind at the best party in town — The Bash, sponsored by Ferguson Home, SKS, and Cosentino — at Mango’s Tropical Cafe, and wrap up KBIS on a high note at the IBS Closing Concert on Thursday featuring award-winning country duo Brothers Osborne.

NKBA looks forward to seeing you at an inspiring, future-focused KBIS 2026, celebrating the ideas, partnerships, and innovation that continue to elevate our industry.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

Allison Hedrick Wins Student Kitchen Design Honors

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Feb 9, 2026 9:04 pm

KBIS 2026Students and Educators
The Portland Community College student earned a $5,000 scholarship for her design that tied the kitchen into the Colorado landscape.
Image courtesy of Allison Hedrick.

By NKBA Staff

Allison Hedrick of Portland Community College in Portland, OR, earned top honors and a $5,000 scholarship for her first-place win in NKBA’s prestigious Student Design Competition, kitchen category.

Each year, NKBA honors six outstanding student designers — three kitchen winners and three bath winners — in the annual contest, which is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel.  In addition to the first-place prizes of $5,000, second-place winners take home a $2,500 scholarship, and third-place winners earn a $1,000 prize. Winners will be recognized on Monday, Feb. 16, during the Design & Industry Awards at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando during KBIS 2026.

In the 2024-2025 competition, aspiring designers were tasked with renovating a kitchen and/or bathroom using floor plans and a client profile that described specific lifestyle needs. Their fictitious client was Lydia Bachman, an anthropology professor who recently retired to Colorado Springs. Designers had to make the kitchen and bath areas more accommodating for frequent overnight guests, and the renovation also needed to consider Lydia’s two Labrador retrievers. A history buff, the homeowner wanted the space to be simultaneously modern, luxurious, and charming, updated but respectful of the 1895 Craftsman-style bungalow’s heritage.

Judges included Rebecca Sutton, CMKBD, CKBR, senior designer at Kitchen Design Concepts in Dallas; Jenni Russell, CMKBD, of Design in Perspective in Colorado Springs, CO; and Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, owner of Timeless Kitchen Design in Seattle and an educator at the Heritage School of Interior Design.

Hedrick said her biggest challenge was transforming the L-shaped space into a layout “with a pleasing flow and more open space, while still preserving the Craftsman aesthetic, which required a lot of experimentation.”

The designer combined three existing rooms to create the new open kitchen, flowing into the walk-in pantry and dining room. She incorporated an existing hutch, made space for an herb garden, created a feeding station for the dogs (complete with a pot-filler for easy access to water), added wine storage, and seating for four. Among the Fisher & Paykel appliances used were a speed oven, coffee machine, under-counter wine fridge and vacuum drawer for resealing wine bottles. Hedrick integrated plenty of outlets for countertop appliances and charging devices, and installed a new window in the pantry for extra light.

She tied the aesthetic into the surrounding Colorado vistas. “My design was titled ‘A Walk Through Redwoods’ because I was deeply inspired by that concept — the beautiful wood, the deep shades of green, and the golden light shining through,” Hedrick said. “I was also inspired by the beautiful casework and millwork inherent to Craftsman houses and wanted to showcase them in my design.”

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

The competition is 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 design statement between 500 and 1,000 words. Incomplete entries will be disqualified.

Projects must be submitted through Award Force, where students can upload, edit, and finalize materials, and the submission deadline is June 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.

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.

For more information, visit the Student Design Competition page at nkba.org.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

Sub-Zero Group Sponsoring 2025-2026 NKBA Student Programs

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Feb 9, 2026 9:23 pm

Press
The premium appliance giant is underwriting student memberships at post-secondary institutions and student chapters at NKBA Affiliated Schools across the U.S. and Canada.

BETHLEHEM, Pa. (February, 9, 2026) — For the seventh consecutive year, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA | KBIS), the world’s leading trade association for the $228 billion kitchen and bath industry, is proud to partner with the Sub-Zero Group, Inc. on its continuing sponsorship of NKBA’s student chapters and student membership.

NKBA actively supports students as they prepare for careers in design, remodeling, and related fields. Students from any post-secondary school are eligible to join the NKBA for free, thanks to the generosity of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.

“We are thrilled to have Sub-Zero Group sponsor our Students of the Industry membership program and Student Chapters at NKBA Affiliated Schools for the seventh straight year,” said Kelly Ann Ryan, Senior Manager, Professional Development, for NKBA. “Our students represent the future of our industry, and it’s so important to support them in every way possible. Sub-Zero’s generous contributions to these programs help give aspiring industry professionals a solid foundation for their career trajectory. This sponsorship gives them the resources they need to build a foundation for their futures and thrive. We are incredibly grateful for Sub-Zero Group’s support.”

Membership includes access to numerous benefits, including:

• Discounts on educational resources

• Access to scholarships

• Eligibility to enter the NKBA Student Design Competition

• Free webinars covering relevant topics in the industry

• Access to the latest NKBA research reports

• Participation in one of NKBA’s 70 local Chapters

• A free expo pass for the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)

Students must provide school information and proof of enrollment, but they don’t need to be enrolled at an NKBA Affiliated School to join.

Additionally, Sub-Zero Group is underwriting the costs of student chapters at NKBA Affiliated Schools. With the association’s assistance, affiliated schools help their students prepare for K&B-related careers in accordance with NKBA’s rigorous standards. Educators can equip their students for these roles by enhancing their curriculum with content and resources provided by the NKBA.

Although post-secondary students from any school are eligible to join the NKBA for free, school affiliation equips educators to provide the most comprehensive educational and co-curricular resources for their students. Educators from Affiliated Schools benefit from free NKBA membership, allowing them to take advantage of the following:

  • Access to NKBA curriculum including the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines and NKBA Specialty Badge programs content
  • Discounted access to the NKBA’s Knowledge Base resource
  • Reviewing and downloading the latest NKBA research reports
  • Interactive webinars for students and educators
  • Support to form an NKBA Student Chapter on campus
  • Discounted Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) registration for educators
  • Free KBIS expo passes for students
  • Access to exclusive opportunities including scholarships and design competitions
  • The school’s logo and profile featured on the NKBA website
  • Use of the “NKBA Affiliated School” graphic on the school’s website and marketing materials

NKBA Affiliated School membership is available to high schools and post-secondary schools that meet certain eligibility requirements. Learn about joining the program here. Find out more about NKBA’s student programs here, or contact schools@nkba.org for information about eligibility and how this program can benefit students.

About the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)

NKBA is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA has informed, educated, and supported the industry since the association’s founding in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead, and empower the kitchen and bath industry through community, professional certification, and learning and events. For more information, go to NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

About Sub-Zero Group, Inc.Sub-Zero Group, Inc. is a third-generation, family-owned company and the industry-leading manufacturer of luxury kitchen appliance brands Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove. Headquartered in Madison, Wisc., Sub-Zero Group has set a higher standard for design excellence, technological advancement, and performance for more than 80 years. The company’s iconic brands are trusted in the world’s most luxurious homes. Sub-Zero pioneered the concept of dual refrigeration, ensuring that food stays fresher longer. With the acquisition of Wolf Range Company in 2000, Sub-Zero Group expanded to add residential cooking products, including ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, warming drawers, and ventilation to its offering. In 2018, the company launched Cove, a new brand focused on dishwashing solutions engineered for spotless cleaning and near-silent operation, completing the kitchen suite. Sub-Zero Group is proudly American-based, with manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, Arizona, and Iowa, and is consistently recognized for commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation. To learn more or experience Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove products firsthand, visit www.subzero-wolf.com, follow on Facebook and Instagram, or contact Customer Care at 800-222-7820.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

Three New Advisors Join NKBA Global Connect Team

Posted: Feb 9, 2026 11:38 am

Global Connect

Access to subject matter experts is a major benefit of membership in the association’s international business membership program, providing strategic guidance about achieving success in the North American market.

By NKBA Staff 

Three industry experts have joined the NKBA Global Connect Advisors team: Laetitia Laurent, William Morley, and Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD, CID. NKBA Global Connect is designed to bring together the international kitchen and bath community with a multi-pronged approach to informing, inspiring, strengthening, and empowering the industry around the world.

NKBA Global Connect Advisors are a valuable member benefit of the program, as they share insights, experiences, and strategic advice critical to entering the North American market or expanding business or recognition in the region. With the addition of these three new advisors, Global Connect members can access experts in timely topics like tariffs and gain a balanced approach from designers who have both domestic and international experiences to help assist companies in their North American journey.

Advisors are available for consultation in their areas of expertise. The range of topics may include understanding business practices in the North American K&B sector, exploring market entry, reducing risk, product design, distribution, finance, insurance, regulations, compliance, and fine-tuning market strategies for success.

NKBA Global Connect members also have access to the association’s exclusive research. This highly regarded proprietary data helps inform decisions about various market segments, the economy, business and design trends, and more.

Meet the Advisors

• William “Bill” Morley, cofounder and senior strategist for HillStaffer, is a trade and government affairs expert. He brings nearly four decades of extensive experience working the halls of Congress to develop winning strategies, craft effective messaging, and engage media and grassroots coalitions on behalf of clients in Europe, Latin America, and North America. Previously, Morley served as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s chief trade lobbyist and, as Vice President for Congressional Affairs, collaborated with pro-trade Democrats and Republicans in Congress to promote international engagement. He led multiple pro-trade ambassador tours across the country. Prior to that, the White House appointed Morley to serve on the advisory Transition Team for Trade and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office following the 2000 election. A frequent guest on major news outlets, including CNN, CBS, MSNBC, CNBC, NPR, Bloomberg, and others, he began his career in public service as General Counsel and business liaison to U.S. Senator Arlen Specter (D-PA). Morley is fluent in Spanish and conversational in Portuguese.

• Laetitia Laurent leads Laure Nell Interiors, a luxury interior design firm with studios in Boca Raton, Fla., and Paris. The international award-winning designer and art historian, raised in France and educated at the Sorbonne, brings a distinctly European sensibility to her work, which is rooted in craftsmanship, proportion, and timeless design principles.
Her design language balances elegance with ease, blending contemporary sensibilities with classical references and artisanal materials. Her work has received numerous accolades, including Luxe RED and ASID National Awards, a 2025 Luxe Gold List designation, and selection for the 2025 Kips Bay Palm Beach Show House. Her projects and insights have been featured in Vogue, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and other leading international design publications, and her expert commentary is frequently sought by top shelter media. For Laetitia, design is not simply about what is beautiful, but what is meaningful: creating spaces that reflect the lives, values, and aspirations of those who inhabit them.

• Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD, CID, is an internationally recognized interior designer, educator, and global brand strategist whose work blends luxury design, resilience, and trauma-informed decision-making. Known as “The Emergency Designer,” she specializes in supporting families and their emotional recovery after fire, flood, or life-changing events; redesigning environments that bring stability, dignity, and long-term wellbeing. With roots in the architectural industry and more than two decades of kitchen and bath expertise, Stacy brings a technically grounded and emotionally attuned approach to every project. A respected thought leader, Stacy was named a 2025 Innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News, recognized for her contributions to resilient design and her leadership within the industry. She also advises international brands on adapting products for the North American luxury market, offering strategic insight that bridges design, culture, and global product development. Stacy is the former President of the NKBA South Florida Chapter, an accredited CEU author, multi-time design competition judge, and a sought-after speaker for chapters and conferences across the country.

About NKBA Global Connect The NKBA Global Connect mission is to connect and grow the kitchen and bath industry around the world through an international membership program. The initiative equips international companies with the support and professional community access they need to thrive in North America by providing market intelligence, brand-positioning guidance, and connections to key North American audiences. By combining NKBA’s expert marketing execution with access to a diverse and influential member network, we help businesses improve visibility, build meaningful relationships, and generate strong market demand, ultimately accelerating their success in the lucrative and competitive $228 billion North American market. Learn more here.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

Emma Bunz Takes Top Honors in Student Design Competition

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Feb 2, 2026 9:21 pm

KBIS 2026Students and Educators
Bunz, from Lakeland College, won first place in the bath category for her design that blends historical charm with modern luxury.
Image courtesy of Emma Bunz.

By NKBA Staff

Emma Bunz, a student at Lakeland College in Vermilion, Alberta, won the top prize for a bath design and a $5,000 scholarship for her project, “Bringing It Back,” in NKBA’s prestigious 2024-2025 Student Design Competition.

NKBA | KBIS honors six outstanding Student Design Competition winners — three kitchen winners and three bath winners — in the annual contest, which is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel.  First-place winners earn a $5,000 scholarship, $2,500 to second place, and third-place winners earn a $1,000 prize. Winners will be recognized on Monday, Feb. 16, during the Design & Industry Awards at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando during KBIS 2026.

In the 2024-2025 competition, aspiring designers were tasked with renovating a kitchen and/or bathroom using floor plans and a client profile that described specific lifestyle needs. Their fictitious client was Lydia Bachman, an anthropology professor who recently retired to Colorado Springs. Lydia wanted to make the kitchen and bath areas more accommodating for frequent overnight guests, and the renovation needed to consider her two Labrador retrievers as well. A history buff, the homeowner wanted the space to be simultaneously modern, luxurious, and charming, updated but respectful of the 1895 Craftsman-style bungalow’s heritage.

Judges included Rebecca Sutton, CMKBD, CKBR, senior designer at Kitchen Design Concepts in Dallas; Jenni Russell, CMKBD, of Design in Perspective in Colorado Springs, CO; and Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, owner of Timeless Kitchen Design in Seattle and an educator at the Heritage School of Interior Design.

Bunz said the main challenge in her winning bathroom design was ensuring it was fully accessible for all without sacrificing aesthetics or luxury. Accessibility features include wide doorways, a roll-in shower with a comfortable bench, strategically placed grab bars, an open vanity for easy use by guests with mobility issues, and a hand-held adjustable shower for either bathing pets or to enhance a seated user’s ability to access the water and bathe independently.

Luxury was also a must in this design, so Bunz added a multi-function bidet toilet, a heated

floor controlled by a touch-screen thermostat, dimmer lights, a Fisher & Paykel warming drawer for towels, and a sunlight above the shower that offers a direct view of the expansive Colorado sky and bathes the space in natural light. The color scheme of green, light oak wood, and beige with gold finishes reflects a connection to nature, and durable, easy-to-clean materials keep maintenance simple.

“Balancing safety, comfort, and beauty was both complex and rewarding,” she said. “I learned how important it is to balance creativity with practicality. The process taught me to refine details carefully and adapt my design to meet accessibility standards, while keeping the space warm and inviting.”

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

The competition is 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 design statement between 500 and 1,000 words. Incomplete entries will be disqualified.

Projects must be submitted through Award Force, where students can upload, edit, and finalize materials, and the submission deadline is June 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.

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.

For more information, visit the Student Design Competition page at nkba.org.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

February 2026

Message from the Chapters Team

Back

Dear Chapter Officers, 

It’s February – and we love our Chapter Officers and NBKA | KBIS! 

Countdown is on for Orlando. Kicking off our KBIS week will be Leader2Leader on Monday, February 16, 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM at the Orange County Convention Center. We have planned an inspirational and informative day for all of you. For your planning, please note shuttles will depart Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa at 7:00 AM for Leader2Leader and return to the hotel at 2:30 PM. Transportation is on your own for Monday night’s NKBA | KBIS Design Industry Awards at Rosen Centre. Throughout KBIS February 17-19, shuttles will be running to/from our hotel to the convention center.

Kudos to our Chapter Officers for driving KBIS registration! Leading the overall registration attendee numbers is Central Florida Chapter in first place with the most registrants, followed by Georgia and Mid Atlantic Chapters. There’s no better place to grow and network with the K&B industry than KBIS – and there’s still time, so spread the word to your members to register now for KBIS 2026.

New for KBIS 2026: VFTI Wine & Design Events. Each day will wrap with an engaging and educational Wine & Design event, an opportunity to connect in a relaxed social setting centered around learning. VFTI attendees need to register in advance for these exclusive experiences.

We’re excited about another new-to-KBIS event from the Chapters & Professional Development team: join us for NKBA’s NextUp Skilled Trades Student Engagement Session on Tuesday, February 17, 3:30 PM in Room S210A. This free session offers 1.5 CEUs and includes the presentation From Concept through Construction: How Skilled Trades Bring Design to Life, featuring SO/KY Chapter’s Jennifer Fiorenza of The English Contractor, plus open forum discussion and a hands-on electrical “test the trade” experience. Open to students and NKBA members interested in learning more about skilled trades initiatives and workforce engagement.

Apply here today for a Skilled Labor grant. Managed by the National Housing Endowment, the Skilled Labor Fund Career Connections VII grant application is open now through March 15. NKBA Chapters are encouraged to apply for funding up to $4,500 to support local skilled trade events. Any 2026 activity intended to introduce high school, middle school, or elementary school students to careers in residential trades will be considered. 

Be sure to tune in to our February Webinars featuring Software and Systems. Lots of great information and CEUs coming your way this month!

February is full of love for our Chapters and members with engagement prior, during, and after KBIS! Please check out just a few of the many fabulous February events our Chapters have planned this month: Central Coast and Valleys February 3, 5th Annual Mini Trade Show; Nebraska/Kansas February 3, New Year, New Hue an uplifting event focused on style, confidence and giving back to benefit the Rose Brooks Center; California Capital February 11, Valentine Social and KBIS Networking; South Florida February 12, “Love at First Fixture”; Minnesota State February 26, Super Orgs Social, a collaborative Industry event bringing together leaders and professionals from across the construction, remodeling, and interior design industries.

While at KBIS, Central Florida Chapter invites you to join them in West Hall on Wednesday, February 18 at 9:00 AM at their “KBIS Rise and Design” program featuring a luxury panel on 2026 trends. 

Thanks for sharing the love, Central Florida – and heartfelt thanks to all our Chapters for the wonderful work that you do!

Warmest wishes,

Kelly

Kelly Buchsbaum

Director, Chapters & Professional Development

kbuchsbaum@nkba.org 

February 2026

Chapter Officer Update

Thank you to our Partners:

“Countdown is on for Orlando. Kicking off our KBIS week will be Leader2Leader on Monday, February 16, 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM at the Orange County Convention Center…“

View Full Message from National →

Important Dates

February 3 – Presidents monthly Zoom meeting – 4 PM EST

February 10 – Programs Chair meeting – 3 PM EST

February 10 – Communications Chair meeting – 4 PM EST

February 11 – Membership Chair meeting – 3 PM EST

February 11 – Secretary/Treasurer meeting – 4 PM EST

February 16 – Leader2Leader at KBIS Orlando – 7 AM EST shuttles depart hotel

February 16 – NKBA | KBIS Design Industry Awards – 6 PM EST

February 17-19 – KBIS 2026, Orlando, FL – Orange County Convention Center

Chapters

NKBA’s Chapters Team is here for you – reach out to us via email or call 610-988-6035.

Kelly Buchsbaum, Director, Chapters & Professional Development

Kristin Shechter, Chapters Engagement Manager

Melissa Flynn, Chapters & Skilled Trades Manager

Elizabeth Mace, Project Manager, Chapters & Professional Development

General info, meeting notices, and roster requests:

chapters@nkba.org

Research

Exciting news this week! On February 4, NKBA will launch two must-read reports—the 4Q25 Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) Report and the 2026 Kitchen & Bath Industry Outlook Report. Be sure to visit nkba.org/research to check them out.

Attending KBIS? Please join us on the NEXTStage (S28201) for our research presentations on Wednesday, February 18 at 9:30 AM for “The Look and Language of Luxury” and again on Thursday, February 19 at 9:30 AM for “The Themes Shaping the Future of the Home.” 

Also, help us celebrate the first anniversary of the K&B Pro Hub, NKBA’s online research community! Join us Wednesday morning during KBIS in the NKBA Booth (S25058) at 10:30 a.m., right after the SOA/SOI, for a brief overview of the K&B Pro Hub and a special reception recognizing the community that has made it such a success.

Whether you’re already a member or just curious, we’d love to see you—stop by to celebrate, learn more, and sign up if you haven’t yet!If you won’t be able to join us in person and aren’t yet a member, you can register online here to be part of what’s shaping the future of the industry.

Marketing

NKBA presents the following February Webinars with a focus on Software & Systems, delving into AI, SEO, and design software. Webinars begin at 12:00 PM ET with 0.1 CEU per webinar.

Tuesday, February 3 | Always-On Marketing: AI + Automation to Stay Visible and Booked
Wednesday, February 4 | Local Maps Mastery: AEO Beats SEO for Remodeling Success
Tuesday, February 10 | Sink Into Search: Mastering SEO for Kitchen & Bath Designers
Wednesday, February 11 | AI Note-Taking for Client Meetings: Enhance Service and Boost Client Satisfaction
Tuesday, February 24 | 3D Kitchen and Bath Design with Chief Architect Software
Wednesday, February 25 | Designing with Autokitchen 26

Students & Educators

Reminder! Our Student & Educator Coffee Break at KBIS is coming up soon on Wednesday, February 18, from 2:30 – 4:00 PM at the Orange County Convention Center. Students, Educators, and Chapter Officers interested in connecting with these groups can register here. This year’s featured speaker is Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD, who will explore important, yet often overlooked, human dimensions of design in “Spaces That Care: The Real-Life Impact of Kitchen and Bath Design.”

Are you an NKBA-certified designer who may be interested in working on the next NKBA Student Design Competition? Contact kryan@nkba.org to learn more about opportunities for contributing to the competition design scenario or judging.

We continue to prepare for the release of the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines, Fifth Edition. We recommend educators use the remaining months of the spring semester and the summer to review the guidelines and prepare to implement them in the Fall 2026 semester.

Government Relations

NKBA actively monitors legislation and public policy developments impacting the kitchen and bath industry, sharing key updates each month through our Government Relations Newsletter.

Hot topics this month include:

U.S. Housing Affordability:

  • The House Financial Services Committee approved the Housing for the 21st Century Act with key provisions related to addressing housing affordability including streamlining regulatory requirements, modernizing existing housing programs, expanding affordable housing finance options, and enhancing oversight of housing providers. 
  • The House passed the HOMES Act which would repeal section 413 of The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to regulate the energy efficiency of manufactured homes. 

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE): The House passed H.R. 4593, known as the Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing Act or SHOWER Act, which would align DOE’s definition with the 2024 ASME standard.

Missouri: State legislature considers House Bill 2353 and Senate Bill 991 which would dissolve the Interior Design Council and transfer its functions to the expanded Missouri Board and change the terminology from “registered interior designer” to “licensed interior designer.”

We hope you benefit from the value these resources bring to you, your profession, and the kitchen & bath industry. Please reach out directly to Steven Campeau, NKBA’s Senior Manager, Global & Government Relations at scampeau@nkba.org, for any specific questions.

Professional Development

Voices from the Industry (VFTI) is a valuable opportunity for learning and professional development, offering a wide range of educational sessions led by industry experts during KBIS. We encourage all members to visit the VFTI landing page at kbis.com to view the upcoming conference schedule and access the registration link. Chapter Officers receive free VFTI access throughout KBIS, and members can take advantage of discounted rates by registering early—encourage your members to register now before prices increase. Please help promote VFTI registration within your chapter so members don’t miss out on this enriching experience and chance to earn CEUs.

Each day of the conference will wrap up with an engaging and educational Wine & Design event, an opportunity to connect in a relaxed, social setting centered around learning. VFTI attendees are invited to register in advance for these exclusive experiences.

Gain CEU credits with NKBA’s webinars. CEU reporting deadline is June 30, 2026 – earn and report today!

Please join NKBA in congratulating our newest NKBA Specialty Badge earners.

Student Member:

Congratulations to Catalina Londono, Cabinetry, Ontario/Canada, Student

Members:

Deborah Lockett, Interiors Reimagined, Universal Design, Northern New England

Sierra Parsons. Cabinets Plus Inc, Lighting, Chicago Mid-West

Ola Elmaghraby, Laurysen Kitchens LTD, Sales & Marketing, Ottawa

Anneke Huisman, KSI Kitchen & Bath, Universal Design, West Michigan

Joe Vance, Vance Home Remodeling, Remodeling, Mid Atlantic

Kristen Weese, Laurysen Kitchens LTD, Sales & Marketing, Ottawa

Kristin Yaremko, Wilbanks Kitchen Design Group, Cabinetry, Southwest Desert

Amanda Kelly, Beyond the Box Inc, Color, Cabinetry Big Sky

Stephanie Jarol, Cabinets Plus, Cabinetry, Chicago Mid West

Bobby Tucker, Universal Design, Manhattan – Student

Aron Stallone, Dilfer’s Custom Design, Appliance, Mid Atlantic

Stephen Vozzola, Wilbanks Kitchen Design Group, Cabinetry, Southwest Desert

Katie Gladden, Wilbanks Kitchen Design Group, Cabinetry, Southwest Desert

Brenda Fritsch, Universal Color, Puget Sound

Sierra Parsons, Cabinets Plus, Cabinetry, Chicago Mid-West

Colleen Primm, Colleen Primm Designs, Color, Ohio State

Jen Royce, RL Rider Remodeling, Floor Plans & Specifications, West Michigan

Carol Peterson, Arizona Designs Kitchens and Baths, Lighting, Arizona South

Jason Smith, Redbud Plumbing, Remodeling, Texas Hill Country

Curt Nasipak, Home Depot, Color, Ohio State

Jack Johns, Atlantic Kitchens, Universal Design, GA/SC Coastal

Kristen Weese, Laurysen Kitchens LTD, Lighting, Ottawa

Deneesha Williams, Luna’s Fine Cabinetry, Cabinetry, Bahamas

Colleen Primm, Colleen Primm Designs, Floor Plans & Specifications, Ohio State

Lauren Forlow, Cabinet Joint, Cabinetry Sales & Marketing Remodeling, Chicago Mid West

Kim Doherty, KADI Designs, Lighting, Southern California

Tim Whitbeck, Cabinet Joint, Cabinetry, Sales & Marketing, Chicago Mid-West

TracyAnn Schuur, The Design Studio MTS Renovations, Floor Plans, Prairie Provinces

Bitsy Littlefield, MLS Construction LLC, Appliance Sustainability, Tennessee

Membership

Frequently Asked Questions and Member Videos for the most frequently asked questions.

New Members are vital to the success of NKBA and our Chapters. Please send prospective members to membership@nkba.org and we will send detailed information on member benefits, membership cost, certification, badges and more.

NKBA Membership Signup. Please share this link. If anyone needs a hard copy of the application, please email info@nkba.org. There is an updated 2025 membership application with new rates.

Company admins can remove employees who are no longer with the company directly through the company profile on www.nkba.org.

To add new employees, please email info@nkba.org and our Member Relations Team will be happy to assist. We’ll need:

  • First and last names
  • Unique email addresses

Any employees working directly for an NKBA member company can be added at no charge—including Sales Reps who work from a home office.

If you have individuals on your roster without email addresses, please send those names to info@nkba.org as well. We’ll reach out to confirm their status with the company and, if applicable, secure an email address.

Have questions? We’re always glad to help—just reach out to info@nkba.org.

Thank you!

Back

NKBA Plans Array of Programming in KBIS 2026 Booth

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Jan 27, 2026 2:05 pm

KBIS 2026News
The association has a full slate of activations set for its KBIS Booth (#S25058), including NKBA Global Connect and general sessions.
Image courtesy of PWP Studio.

By NKBA Staff

NKBA’s booth at KBIS 2026 will feature a full lineup of informative and engaging sessions. From general information to custom events and detailed advice from the NKBA Global Connect team, the association’s South Hall home (booth #S25058) will be a hub of activity.

KBIS runs Feb. 17 to 19 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

Visitors will learn about the valuable benefits of NKBA membership, exclusive events throughout the year, opportunities for professional and career growth, and NKBA’s proprietary research included in the membership fee. Highlights include events with NKBA Global Connect and the association’s highly successful collaboration with High Point Market. There will also be a complimentary headshot booth sponsored by Ferguson Home.

The NKBA Global Connect international business membership program offers programming, brand spotlights, custom events, access to market research and expert advisors, and opportunities designed to build awareness of the North American market and help international companies gain a deeper understanding of how to do business across the region. The program also brings international business journalists to KBIS to learn about the innovations, technologies, and new products emerging in the U.S. and Canada.

Here’s a preview of the exciting programming on tap.

TUESDAY, FEB. 17

9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Free Professional Headshots

Visit the NKBA | KBIS Booth (#S25850) for a free professional headshot, sponsored by Ferguson Home.

11:30 am – 12 noon: NKBA Global Connect Welcome Reception

Join the Global Connect team at the NKBA Booth to kick off your KBIS experience and learn about the exciting Global Connect programming occurring throughout the show.”

12 noon – 1:30 pm: NKBA Global Connect Custom Event: Ballerina-Küchen    

The Sweetness of Form, the Taste of Color features a design experience with Ballerina Küchen® premium German cabinetry and The COLORNETWORK®. Guests will explore how Ballerina’s future-forward craftsmanship, defined by clean geometry, tactile materials, and individualized design solutions, harmonizes with The COLORNETWORK’s bold, expressive palettes.

4:15 pm – 5:30 pm: High Point Market x Design Edge Reception
Join NKBA strategic partners High Point Market Authority and Design Edge for a mix-and-mingle reception in the NKBA booth. Connect with leadership, learn more about how these groups can benefit your business, and engage with fellow designers and industry members who are also connected to or curious about these shows. Light bites will be served. 

WEDNESDAY FEB. 18

9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Free Professional Headshots

Visit the NKBA | KBIS Booth (#S25850) for a free professional headshot, sponsored by Ferguson Home.

10:30 am – 11:15 am: The Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub Reception

The Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub is NKBA’s innovative online research community. Founded last year, this powerful platform connects pros across the industry, and delivers cutting-edge insights and the the knowledge needed for success in this ever-evolving sector. Carrie Kennedy, NKBA Research Manager, will take a deep dive into the progress, insights, and standout moments that defined the Hub over the past year. She’ll highlight the resources that drove the most engagement, and explore the trends and conversations that helped elevate the K&B community. Attendees will get a clear view of how the Hub is evolving and what professionals find most valuable in this collaborative space. After the overview, enjoy a relaxed mix-and-mingle, spark new connections, share ideas, and celebrate another year of growth and innovation across the industry. And if you haven’t joined the K&B Pro Hub yet, this is the perfect chance to stop in, learn what the Hub offers, and get signed up on the spot. It’s free to join for NKBA members!

11:30 am – 12:30 pm: NKBA Global Connect Brand Spotlight: SCHOTT & IAPMO  

Noëlle C. Lavery, Director of NKBA Global Connect, hosts Brand Spotlights — rapid-fire presentations with Q&A by new-to-KBIS international brands and global partners — highlighting innovative products for the North American market.

12:30 pm – 2:00 pm: NKBA Global Connect Custom Event: L&S Lighting – We Make Your Project Shine!         

L&S Lighting’s event celebrates Italian light, design, inspiration, and the art of illumination, where refined aesthetics meet advanced LED technology. Discover how L&S creates functional, bespoke, architectural lighting that’s easy to install. Its latest residential solutions blend elegance, innovation, and user-centric design, transforming everyday spaces into comfortable and stylish experiences. Enjoy Italian bites and a glass of wine while learning how “we make your projects shine!”

2:15 pm – 3:15 pm: Secrets from Consumer Reports’ 90 Years of Product Testing – and What They Mean for Your Home

Ever wonder what goes on in the Consumer Reports labs? For 90 years, CR’s engineers and scientists have tested kitchen and bath appliances — among many other home products — to determine how they perform in real-life conditions and help people make regret-free buying decisions.  Every year, CR’s testing and member surveys reveal which products perform best over time, along with the features worth paying for and the brands that consistently deliver. In this lively panel discussion, CR’s testing, data, and content insiders share lesser-known truths gleaned from decades of evaluations. Attendees will gain evidence-based insights on what truly matters when choosing products for a well-designed, better-performing home—and have the chance to get their questions answered by CR’s pros.

Host: Elliot Weiler, Director, Video. Panelists: Breann Chai, Kitchen Test Project Leader; Daniel Wroclawski, Sr. Kitchen Content Creator; Jacob George, Account Executive, Data Intelligence

3:30 – 5:00 pm: NKBA Global Connect Custom Event: SCHOTT

The Hidden Ingredient Experience  

Great kitchens, homes, and futures are built on hidden ingredients. Like seasoning in a delicious dish, SCHOTT® glass is rarely noticed, but it’s essential to what modern kitchens can do. Discover how SCHOTT glass-ceramic and specialty glass draws on 130+ years of experience to enable performance under extreme heat and stress, unlock sleek design freedom, and support more durable, innovative, energy-smart solutions for the home.

THURSDAY, FEB. 19

9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Free Professional Headshots

Visit the NKBA | KBIS Booth (#S25850) for a free professional headshot, sponsored by Ferguson Home.

10:00 am – 10:45 am: North American Trends Talk

France to Florida: European Design Trends for 2026
From Paris ateliers to Palm Beach homes, design ideas travel far before they reach the American luxury market. Paris-trained designer and U.S.-based principal Laetitia Laurent explores how French and European design movements emerge, evolve, and ultimately influence selections, finishes, and American consumer expectations. With studios in Paris and Boca Raton, Laetitia offers a clear and unique perspective on how global aesthetics translate into American lifestyles. She will highlight current European trends, why they matter for NKBA members, and what is coming next.

10:00 am – 1:00 pm: NKBA Global Connect Sendoff

Join the Global Connect team to review your KBIS experience and chart what’s next for your brand. Discover how the Global Connect program can help boost your presence, expand your business, and learn about upcoming Global Connect events for 2026.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

Catherine Wright Scores 2nd-Place Win in Student Competition

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Jan 27, 2026 10:43 am

KBIS 2026Students and Educators
Wright, a Century College design student, took second place in the bath category.
Render provided by Catherine Wright.

By NKBA Staff

Catherine Wright, a design student at Century College in White Bear Lake, MN, earned a second-place win and a $2,500 scholarship for her “Private Retreat in Style & Function” project in NKBA’s prestigious Student Design Competition.

NKBA | KBIS honors six outstanding Student Design Competition winners — three kitchen winners and three bath winners — in the annual contest, which is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel.  Awards include a $5,000 scholarship for first place, $2,500 for second place, and $1,000 for third place. Winners will be recognized on Monday, Feb. 16, during the Design & Industry Awards at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando during KBIS 2026.

Judges included Rebecca Sutton, CMKBD, CKBR, senior designer at Kitchen Design Concepts in Dallas; Jenni Russell, CMKBD, of Design in Perspective in Colorado Springs, CO; and Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, owner of Timeless Kitchen Design in Seattle and an educator at the Heritage School of Interior Design.

In the 2024-2025 competition, aspiring designers were tasked with renovating a kitchen and/or bathroom using floor plans and a client profile that described specific lifestyle needs. Their fictitious client was Lydia Bachman, an anthropology professor who recently retired to Colorado Springs. Lydia wanted to make the kitchen and bath areas more accommodating for frequent overnight guests, and the renovation needed to consider her two Labrador retrievers as well. A history buff, the homeowner wanted the space to be simultaneously modern, luxurious, and charming, updated but respectful of the 1895 Craftsman-style bungalow’s heritage.

The guest bathroom was small and cramped, so Wright’s primary challenge was expanding it to create a more spacious and luxurious room. She took space from a closet in the guest bedroom and reworked a hallway, thus increasing the bathroom footprint to install a larger, zero-threshold shower and more storage. The bathroom had to accommodate guests with mobility issues, so Wright applied universal design principles, such as increasing doorways to 30 inches, installing a fold-down seat in the shower, selecting a comfort-height toilet, and installing grab bars. She also specified easy-to-clean materials, including large-format porcelain tiles with minimal grout lines and quartz countertops, to make maintenance a breeze.

Aesthetically, she connected the exterior environment to the interior design. “Bringing the ‘outdoors in’ provides a calming feel of nature into the bathroom and is in keeping with the Craftsman style and in harmony with the kitchen design,” she wrote in her design statement. “The deep green vanity, linen closet, and vanity/floor tile are complemented by the wood walls of oak slat fluted tambour panels, and the creme/tan swirls on the quartz countertops and shower wall slabs bring the theme together.”

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

The competition is 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 design statement between 500 and 1,000 words. Incomplete entries will be disqualified.

Projects must be submitted through Award Force, where students can upload, edit, and finalize materials, and the submission deadline is June 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.

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.

For more information, visit the Student Design Competition page at nkba.org.

Thanks to our 2024-2025 Student Design Competition Sponsor:

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026

Back

Bill Darcy to Deliver Annual State of the Association Address at KBIS

N

NKBA Staff

Posted: Jan 27, 2026 10:33 am

KBIS 2026News
The Global President and CEO of NKBA | KBIS will share insights about 2025 accomplishments and plans for the year ahead, before introducing futurist Jaye Anna Mize of Future Snoops for the State of the Industry presentation.
NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy giving his 2025 State of the Association presentation.

By NKBA Staff

Bill Darcy, NKBA | KBIS Global President and CEO, will deliver his annual State of the Association address at KBIS 2026 on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 8:30 am in Room S320/320E at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. It’s one of the must-see events at the expo, which has its three-day run, Feb. 17 to 19.

Following his address, Darcy will introduce Jaye Anna Mize, vice president of Advisory + Partnerships at Future Snoops, to deliver the State of the Industry presentation. The event is open to all registered KBIS attendees.

Darcy will detail some of the challenges the industry faced in 2025, including tariffs and changing tariff policies, the rising costs of building materials, the persistent labor crisis, and the housing shortage.

He’ll discuss some of the year’s highlights as well, including NKBA’s successful strategic alliance with High Point Market Authority, the thriving Women2Women initiative for leadership development and mentorship, the groundbreaking research collaboration with home technology integrators association CEDIA, and the continuing success of the Global Connect international business membership program, among other bright spots.

Then, he’ll dive into some of the factors likely to influence the year ahead for design, construction, and renovation. These include economic indicators like interest rates, rising home equity levels, and consumer sentiment; the growth of sustainable practices, AI, and other emerging technologies; and the overall resilience of the kitchen and bath industry.

After Darcy concludes his remarks, he will introduce Jaye Anna Mize of Future Snoops, a global trend forecasting agency that helps companies — including popular home furnishings brands — see around corners and develop insight-driven strategies that future-proof their businesses. Mize is a highly respected creative strategist, trend forecaster, and a prominent voice for future-forward design and innovation. She brings nearly two decades of experience in diverse sectors, from media to retail, and has collaborated with Drew and Jonathan Scott of “Property Brothers” on the Scott Living brand and a multi-tier licensing program with Kohl’s. Other high-profile collaborations include High Point Market Authority, Unilever, Target, Mattel, and BuzzFeed.

She will share key strategies for how design and remodeling firms can navigate changing and emerging behaviors, shifting economic and generational realities, how to develop and grow their brands, prepare for the unexpected, and connect cultural insights with savvy business decisions.

There’s still time to sign up for KBIS.

Learn more and register here.

Share:

Most Recent

Bill Darcy Shares Optimism for 2026 Rebound in State of the Association Address

February 18, 2026

NKBA Introduces 2026 Design Council

February 18, 2026

Don’t Miss Day 2 at the NKBA | KBIS Booth

February 17, 2026

NKBA Certified Designer Lunch at KBIS 2026

February 17, 2026

NKBA Introduces Thirty Under 30 Class of 2026 on the KBIS NEXTStage

February 17, 2026

Students and Educators Honoring NKBA’s Educator of the Year: Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, CMKBD

February 17, 2026