By NKBA Staff

Company News

Formica Earns Biobased Certification: Formica Corp. has earned the U.S. Department of Agriculture Certified Biobased Product Label for its Formica Brand Laminate. This USDA recognition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to using sustainable materials. The label displays a product’s biobased content, which is the portion of a product that comes from a renewable source, such as plant, animal, marine, or forestry feedstocks. Utilizing renewable biobased materials displaces the need for non-renewable petroleum-based chemicals. Third-party verification for a product’s biobased content is administered through the USDA BioPreferred® Program, which strives to increase the development, purchase, and use of biobased products. Formica invented high-pressure laminate in 1913. More details here.

True, Urban Bonfire Collaborate on Outdoor:  True Caliber, a leader in luxury residential refrigeration and high-end professional grills, and outdoor cooking specialist Urban Bonfire have partnered on a new collection of outdoor kitchen layouts that made its debut at High Point Market in October. The collaboration is centered around the Rockwell Social Grill by Caliber that pairs Urban Bonfire’s powder-coated finishes with True Caliber’s signature bold hues. Hardware and layouts incorporating True’s under-counter refrigerators and refrigeration drawers are fully customizable. Refrigerators are available with paneled or glass doors. Configurations can include L-shaped, galley, straight, or other custom designs. True and Caliber Grills formed a strategic partnership in February, making True the sole manufacturer of Caliber Grills.  Learn more here.

Neff Elected PMI President: Bob Neff has been elected president of the Plumbing Manufacturers International 2026 Board of Directors. Neff is an enterprise product compliance and regulatory manager for Masco Corp. and Delta Faucet Company. He succeeds Belinda Wise, a member of the Neoperl US board of directors, who will remain on the board as immediate past president. Other board members include vice president Lowell Lampen, Kohler; board secretary/treasurer Paige Riddle, LSP Products; and at-large directors Troy Benavidez, LIXIL; John Confrey, Falcon Water Technologies; Tim O’Keefe, Symmons Industries; and Kate Olinger, Uponor-GF Building Flow Solutions. Learn more about PMI here.

Industry News

40 Is the New 30: The typical age of first-time home-buyers has climbed to an all-time high of 40 years old, up from age 30 in 2010, according to the National Association of REALTORS^®‘ 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. What’s more, the share of first-time home buyers dropped to a record low of 21 percent. The reasons for these swings are largely attributable to low inventory caused by a housing shortage and high mortgage interest rates. Additionally, existing homeowners with low-interest-rate loans are not eager to move and incur a higher rate, so they are opting to remodel rather than move, as they watch their home equity swell. For existing homeowners who do sell, the average age of repeat buyers is 62. More details here.

Brothers Osborne Performing at DCW: Design & Construction Week 2026 will end with the IBS Closing Concert featuring country duo Brothers Osborne, Feb. 19, 5 to 7 pm, at the Orange County Convention Center. John and JT Osborne have garnered 13 GRAMMY nominations, including a 2022 win for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. They are six-time CMA Vocal Duo of the Year winners, four-time ACM Duo of the Year winners and recipients of both the ASCAP Vanguard Award and multiple RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications. Tickets are $65 and must be purchased online. Doors open at 5, and the concert starts at 6. Register here.

Sinise to Keynote at Coverings: Registration is open for the 2026 Coverings expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center, March 30 to April 2. The organization revealed that actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise will lead a keynote-style conversation with industry leaders on April 1, 8:30 to 9:15 am. Coverings’ philanthropic arm, Coverings Cares, will make a significant contribution to the Gary Sinise Foundation, established by the actor in 2011. The foundation builds specially adapted, mortgage-free homes for America’s most severely wounded heroes, among its many programs. Attendee donations will be matched in part to further support and amplify the foundation’s ongoing efforts. Learn more and register for the show here.

Chapter Updates

Smart-Home Seminar in Indiana: The Indiana Chapter is hosting an event that blends high design and high tech on Nov. 20, 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at sponsor Lee Supply Carmel, 415 W Carmel Drive in Carmel, IN.  “Home Automation Unlocked” will be an interactive evening of inspiration with Jim Kluka, an MIT-trained aerospace engineer and founder of Exceptional Home Technologies. Learn about lighting and shade control, wireless music systems, hidden sound transducers, frame TV integration, and other smart-home innovations, and earn 0.1 CEU for this event. Registration is $20 for NKBA members, $30 for non-members. More detail here.

Celebrate With Rocky Mountain: Join the Rocky Mountain Chapter for its Holiday Casino & Auction Fundraiser benefiting BuildStrong Academy. Enjoy casino games, an auction, prizes, food, drinks, and networking, all while supporting a nonprofit that trains and connects people to careers in the building trades. The party takes place Nov. 20, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at Finelines Appliance, 19185 Lincoln Avenue in Parker, CO. Registration is $25 for NKBA members, $35 for non-members. More info here.

Party On in Tennessee: The Tennessee Chapter will welcome friends to its annual Christmas Party on Dec. 3, 6 to 8 pm, at Ann Sacks, 514 Fontana Drive in Nashville. Enjoy festive bites and drinks as the chapter celebrates the season. Admission is free with a donation to support the chapter’s Skilled Trades Workshops for Kids. Bring new, unwrapped basic tools, like hammers, screwdrivers, tape measures, nails, or beginner tool kits available at most hardware stores. Other options include unwrapped toys or non-perishable food items. Learn more here.

Go Glam With Metro New York: The Metro New York Chapter is hosting its annual holiday party Dec. 3, from 7 to 11 pm, at The Piermont, 494 Fire Island Avenue, Babylon, NY. Dress code is “Holiday Glam,” and tickets are $70 for NKBA members, $80 for non-members. The evening promises good company, great food, and DJ Xcel to keep the dance floor packed as the chapter installs its 2026 Board of Directors and honors outgoing president Jason Brathwaite. More info here.

A series of innovative celebrations highlighted the chapter’s 50th Anniversary.

By NKBA Staff

The NKBA Northern California Chapter marked its 50th anniversary this fall, celebrating five decades of community, volunteerism, and leadership in the kitchen and bath industry. For Chapter President Nureed Saeed, founder of Nu Interiors, the milestone was more than a party—it was a reflection on legacy, belonging, and the power of design to bring people together. “We wanted to celebrate our history, but also highlight the people and partnerships that make our chapter what it is,” said Saeed. “This milestone is truly about 50 years of volunteerism and connection.”

Honoring Excellence and Volunteerism

Over the past several years, the Northern California Chapter has been recognized nationally for excellence in leadership and programming—earning numerous NKBA Star Awards, including: Best President; Best Secretary/Treasurer; Best Membership Chair; Best Programs Chair; Best Student-Focused Initiative; and Best Community Initiative.

The chapter’s Student Design Symposium—created by past Programs Chair Sharon Washington—was later adopted by NKBA National as part of its learning initiatives. Its Community Initiative, developed with the Make It Home organization and Marin Foster Care Association, provides appliances to foster care parents in need through local dealers and manufacturers.

“These awards aren’t just a reflection on the council,” said Saeed. “They represent the hard work of volunteers who give their time and passion to keep this chapter thriving. It’s 50 years of volunteerism that makes this possible.”

A Year of Celebration

The 50th Anniversary Celebration on November 6 brought together members, sponsors, and friends at Lucky Strike in Alameda for a lively 1970s-themed evening filled with bowling, arcade games, dancing, a fajita and ice cream bar, and a raffle prize generously donated by SKS Appliances.

Miele provided an elegant coffee bar experience, while Luxus German Cabinetry, a Nobilia partner, served as the event’s Title Sponsor. Additional support came from Gold Sponsors All Natural Stone, Ferguson Home, and Miele; Silver Sponsors True Residential, Cosentino, Zephyr, and Kohler/Zurier; and Annual Chapter Sponsors IRG, DeWils Fine Cabinetry, Vadara, Zurier/Kohler, True Residential, BlueStar, Ferguson Home, Stoneville, and Rigg’s Distributing.

During the celebration, Saeed invited guests to contribute to a time capsule filled with member photos, notes, and mementos—symbolizing the enduring spirit of community that defines the chapter. The capsule will be hand-delivered to NKBA | KBIS Headquarters in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and entrusted to NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy for safekeeping until it’s opened at the 75th Anniversary in 2050.

The chapter also launched a digital storytelling series, “What’s Your NKBA Story?”, featuring reflections from longtime and new members—including an interview with Darcy on the meaning of community and the next era of NKBA leadership.

Looking Ahead

As the Northern California Chapter looks to its next 50 years, it does so with renewed energy and purpose. In 2026, the chapter will debut a new Design Competition in partnership with Zephyr and Modern Luxury, with winning designs featured in its Kitchen & Bath Issue next fall.

“Coming out of COVID, our goal was to rebuild connection—to make this the most inclusive, welcoming, and caring community possible,” said Saeed. “We now have more volunteers than ever. That says everything about who we are. Fifty years of volunteerism—that’s what this chapter represents. We’ve made it this far because people care. And that same love for this community will carry us through the next 50.”

The Chapter Hosted Its First Annual Alamo City BBQ Cookoff

By NKBA Staff

The sweet smell of mesquite smoke and the spirit of community filled the air at Good Bull Ranch in Spring Branch, Texas, as the NKBA Texas South Plains Chapter hosted its 1st Annual Alamo City BBQ Cookoff on October 24–25, 2025.

This inaugural event brought together designers, builders, manufacturers, and BBQ enthusiasts from across the region for two unforgettable days of friendly competition, live music, and good old-fashioned Texas hospitality—all in support of NKBA’s Scholarship Fund for trade and design students.

Organized by Glenn McNamara, Programs Chair for the Texas South Plains Chapter, the Cookoff wasn’t just about great BBQ—it was about building the future of the industry. “Our goal was to do more than just host a competition,” said McNamara. “We wanted to create a meaningful event that brings people together and gives back. Every dollar raised helps a student pursue a career in the trades or interior design. That’s something worth celebrating.”

Smoke, Spice, and Scholarship

Over the course of two days, teams competed for over $4,000 in prizes across ten categories, including Brisket, Spare Ribs, and Chicken—plus a lineup of crowd-pleasing “Jackpot” contests featuring Chili, Queso, Margaritas, Desserts, Beans, Salsa, Bloody Marys, and Cook’s Choice entries.

Competition was fierce but friendly, with judges using a double-masked system to ensure fairness. The Grand Champion and Reserve Champion were crowned Saturday afternoon, with 50% of all Jackpot winnings donated directly back to the NKBA Scholarship Fund.

In true Texas fashion, Friday night turned into a lively community gathering as guests enjoyed live music, BBQ tastings, and a BYOB social that ran late into the evening. Attendees were encouraged to “bring plenty of food and drink to share,” creating an atmosphere that was equal parts competition and family reunion.

A Community of Support

The event’s success was made possible by the generous support of sponsors, including Dacor, Ferguson Home, JennAir, Fisher & Paykel, Moen, Samsung, and TOTO, as well as numerous local partners and NKBA members.

Sponsorship levels ranged from Event and Awards Sponsors to Gold and Silver Raffle Partners, ensuring companies of all sizes could participate in supporting education and workforce development.

“Every brand that contributed helped make this vision a reality,” McNamara added. “This was a true team effort from our industry, and we’re incredibly grateful.”

A Tradition in the Making

With dozens of competitors, hundreds of attendees, and thousands of dollars raised for education, the first-ever NKBA Alamo City BBQ Cookoff set a high bar for future years.

The chapter has already begun planning next year’s event, with even more opportunities for local businesses, students, and community members to get involved.

“This was just the beginning,” said McNamara. “We proved that when our industry comes together, we can have a great time—and make a real impact.”

By NKBA Staff

Company News

Gaggenau Updates Steam Oven: As part of its new Expressive Series, Gaggenau has updated its Combi-Steam oven. It offers 14 heating methods, including sous-vide at controlled low temperatures, a new Keep Warm mode, and a full-surface hidden broiler that pairs with steam functions. Enhancements also include an animated “wizard” to guide homeowners through features, as well as a door that opens automatically at the end of the cooking process to prevent burning or overcooking. An integrated cartridge-based cleaning system simplifies maintenance, ensuring longevity and purity of performance. The Combi-Steam oven will be available late this year. Learn more about the Expressive Series here.

GEA Sets “Blue Wave” Record: GE Appliances’ 2025 Blue Wave volunteer initiative drew a record number of employees for its corporate-wide day of service last month. Nearly 1,000 volunteers from offices, plants, and field locations across the United States partnered with local nonprofits to address impactful community projects. These included combating food insecurity, environmental cleanups at public spaces, adapting mechanical toys for children with physical limitations, and refreshing museums and schools with painting, deep cleaning, and staff/teacher training on projects emphasizing the basics of “making” and STEM education. KBB has the story.

That’s a Lot of Wine: True Residential is introducing 36-inch wine columns at KBIS 2026. The larger units store more than 150 bottles and complement the current 24-inch, 30-inch, and under-counter models. Wine preservation features include two independent zones for temperature and humidity control, TruLumina^® LED lighting with 14 color options, and full-extension, soft-close wine racks that prevent vibration. Hardware and finishes are available in True’s full range of custom options available through the Build Your True program, including its newest: olive. More info here.

Wood-Mode Returns to KBIS: After a 10-year hiatus, Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry is returning to KBIS for the 2026 edition in Orlando, Feb. 17 to 19. The company, a leading manufacturer of luxury cabinetry, is co-locating with custom hardware manufacturer Stoll Industries, one of its strategic partners, in Booth S23019 in the South Hall of the Orange County Convention Center. The company said it has been building its strategic process over the past six years, investing significantly in manufacturing and sustainability upgrades, and dedicating resources to ensuring top product quality and customer experience, and that it’s now time to reach the industry at KBIS again. More info on Wood-Mode here.

Chapter Updates

Fabuwood Tour With Northern NJ: Join the Northern New Jersey Chapter for a two-part November event on Nov. 11. The morning begins at 10:30 am at Fabuwood’s state-of-the-art cabinetry facility at 69 Blanchard Street in Newark, and includes a factory tour, lunch, and presentation. This portion of the day is complimentary, but registration is required since space is limited. This will be followed by the monthly chapter meeting at Appliance Place, 2590 US 22, Scotch Plains, NJ, starting with the board meeting (all members invited) at 4:30. Enjoy networking, light bites, cocktails, and door prizes while meeting appliance manufacturing partners. Cost is $25 per person for the evening meeting. Registration here.

Design Awards in New England: The Northern New England Chapter will celebrate winners of its yearly design competition at Design Awards Ceremony 2025 on Nov. 19, 5:30 to 8:30 pm, at Splash Spritzo, 244 Needham Street, Newton, MA. The banquet is sponsored by Kohler and LX Hausys and registration is $35. More info here.

Appreciation and Awards in NoCal: The California Capital Chapter is hosting its annual Member Appreciation and Awards Gala on Nov. 21, 5:30 pm, at SEQUOIA at the Cannery, 1601 Alhambra Boulevard in Sacramento. Celebrate the talent and dedication within the chapter, from designer awards to volunteers, committee members and rising student stars. Registration is $100 per person or $750 for a table of 8 and includes dinner, drinks, awards, raffles, and a few surprises. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Holiday Toy Drive to spread joy for the season. More detail here.

Holiday Cheer with Mid Atlantic: The Mid Atlantic Chapter is hosting its annual holiday party Dec. 4 from 5 to 8 pm at Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, 4050 S 26^th Street, Ste. 100, in Philadelphia. Celebrate the season with delicious bites and drinks, in collaboration with ASID Pennsylvania East, IFDA Philadelphia Chapter, and AAPI Design Alliance. Guests will enjoy wreath decorating, a bourbon tasting, a wine tasting by Red Brick Winery, a photo booth, and more. Admission is free, with attendees asked to bring a gift from the Amazon Wish List. More details here.

Across three transformative days, NKBA’s new design hub at High Point Market became a destination for industry leaders, brands, and designers to see how kitchen, bath, lighting, and surfaces define the future of whole-home design.

By NKBA Staff

Designers, brands, and thought leaders from across the industry came together to celebrate connection, creativity, and the future of design at NKBA’s inaugural Broad Hall activation at High Point Market that bridged the worlds of kitchen, bath, and interiors—marking a pivotal step in uniting design disciplines and setting the stage for future collaboration at KBIS and beyond.

Day 1: Expanding Expertise & Embracing Color

Fall Market opened with mimosas, music, and a sense of anticipation as NKBA, in partnership with Cosentino and Codarus, welcomed guests to explore Broad Hall’s immersive vignettes, curated by NKBA Board Member Kerrie Kelly. The brands featured included Kichler, James Martin Vanities, Ferguson Home, Sherwin-Williams, Fabuwood, BlueStar, Signature Hardware, Miele, Urban Bonfire, FreePower, Blanco, Lutron, Feeney, and Azenco.

The morning’s first discussion, “Expanding Your Expertise into Kitchen & Bath Design,” led by Andrea Lillo, Executive Editor of Designers Today, encouraged designers to explore new opportunities in kitchen and bath. Panelists Sarah Robertson (AKBD, Studio Dearborn), Kelly Collier-Clark (House of Clark Interiors), Shae Wilder (BlueStar), and Pam Durkin (James Martin Vanities) shared candid insights about growth, collaboration, and NKBA membership. “Collaboration between designers and manufacturers is where the real innovation happens,” said Wilder.

In the afternoon, Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams, unveiled The Evolution of Color: Anthology Volume Two, previewing the 2026 color forecast. Drawing from biophilia and neuroaesthetics, Wadden spotlighted four palettes—Frosted Tints, Sunbaked Hues, Restorative Darks, and Foundational Neutrals—all rooted in emotional wellness and inclusivity. “Design is about connection and comfort,” Wadden shared. “We’re seeing color evolve toward warmth and grounding—spaces that feel restorative yet forward-looking.”

The day culminated in a lively NKBA × Cosentino Ribbon Cutting, attended by industry media and partners, including NKBA Global President & CEO Bill Darcy, NKBA Chief Partnerships Officer, Domestic & Global Brands, Geraldine Morrison, Cosentino’s Vice President of A&D Patty Dominguez, and President and CEO of High Point Authority Tammy Covington. “Today’s designers don’t create rooms in isolation,” Morrison said. “The whole home is the future—and High Point is at the center of that conversation.”

Day 2: Light, Finish & Form Shape the Story

Under a brilliant fall sky, designers returned to Broad Hall for “Designing with Light, Finish & Form,” moderated by Kathryn Given, Executive Director of Editorial & Brand Content for Luxe Interiors + Design. Panelists Thom Filicia and Michel Smith Boyd (NKBA Design Council members), Kristina Christopher (Kichler), and Caroline Danielson (Ferguson Home) explored how materials, light, and detail define emotion in space.“I adorn my spaces like I adorn my body,” said Boyd. “Lighting must be considered early—it supports the architecture; it’s part of the story,” added Filicia. Panelists discussed trends such as adjustable color temperature, living finishes like brass and bronze, and the beauty of imperfection—materials that age gracefully and tell a story.

Later, FLOWER Magazine’s Karen Carroll moderated “The 2026 Kitchen Design Trends Report” with Alena Capra (CMKBD), Julee Ireland, Jonathan Krieger, and Briana Ryan (Miele USA). Topics ranged from AI-driven cooking technology to evolving layout concepts. “I think our kitchens are going to cook for us,” joked Ireland. “Luxury today means serenity and simplicity,” added Ryan.

That evening, guests gathered at HQ Gallery for a family-style dinner catered by Southern Roots, with cocktails, jazz, and interactive brand activations—from Lutron’s aura-reading Polaroids to Miele’s espresso martinis. In a heartfelt toast, Darcy reflected: “Just a few months ago, Broad Hall was only an idea—a vision. Today, it stands as a symbol of what’s possible when design, innovation, and partnership align.”

Day 3: Color, Creativity & the Entrepreneurial Spirit

As Market came to a close, Broad Hall buzzed once more—this time with conversations about emotion, creativity, and fearless entrepreneurship.

The morning’s session, “Design Kaleidoscope: Color and Light Trends in Kitchen + Bath,” moderated by Carisha Swanson, Market Director of House Beautiful, featured Heather French, Julee Ireland, and Sue Wadden. Together, they examined how post-pandemic priorities, such as biophilia and emotional connection, are influencing palettes and lighting. “Lighting is the extension of the paintbrush,” said Ireland. “It doesn’t just support the design—it brings it to life.”

In the afternoon, the final panel, “Leveraging the Entrepreneurial Spirit for Your Business,” moderated by Chandler Presson Pibl (Modern Luxury), brought together Richard T. Anuszkiewicz, Arianne Bellizaire, Ryan Bloom, and Jake Slatnick for an unfiltered conversation about creativity, risk, and reinvention. “Entrepreneurship isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about building systems that let you recover faster,” said Slatnick. “Innovation happens when you stop designing for today’s problems and start designing for tomorrow’s expectations.”As twilight fell, NKBA hosted a VIP Cocktail Reception at Broad Hall, where Darcy raised a glass in gratitude: “What began as a vision became something truly extraordinary. Thank you to everyone—our team, partners, and brands—who helped bring Broad Hall to life.”

The team recently awarded scholarships as part of the Build Your Future initiative.

By Nicholas Tamarin

The NKBA San Diego Chapter recently participated in a local college and career fair for the association’s Build Your Future initiative, which encourages students to explore rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

Chapter President Tracy Parsons, of Tracy Parsons Designs, attended the Poway Unified School District’s 2025 College and Career Fair on September 25 alongside Mary Jennings, CMKBD, and Lance Hawkins, Operations Manager at Remodel Works Bath & Kitchen of San Diego. Together, the team engaged with more than 1,000 students and families, providing valuable insights into the wide range of career opportunities within the kitchen and bath industry.

“We created a slideshow to educate students on careers in the skilled trades and shared resources for those interested in training and certification,” said Parsons. “We were thrilled by the amount of student and parent engagement throughout the day.”

The event was the culmination of nearly a year of planning, led by a dedicated committee of seven chapter members who coordinated logistics, and a scholarship committee of three who are currently finalizing the chapter’s first-ever scholarship program.

As part of this effort, the San Diego Chapter will award six scholarships totaling $6,000 in Spring 2026 to students pursuing technical education in the trades. Scholarship criteria and application details will be announced next month on the San Diego Chapter page at NKBA.org.

“Huge kudos to Tracy and the other San Diego officers for planning such an incredible event and engaging so thoughtfully with the student community,” said Kristin Schechter, NKBA Chapter Engagement Manager. “Your leadership and dedication truly make a difference in shaping the next generation of industry professionals.”

In addition to the fair, the chapter developed a presentation and resource guide for students and families, which is also available on the chapter page. This guide highlights the growing need for skilled labor and outlines educational pathways toward successful careers in kitchen and bath design, construction, and related trades.

“This was an exciting step for our chapter,” added Parsons. “We’re passionate about showing students that the trades offer not just jobs, but lifelong careers with purpose, creativity, and opportunity.”

NKBA Daily Recap: High Point Market – Saturday, October 25

By NKBA Staff

Day one of Fall Market marked an exciting milestone for the design industry as the NKBA and the High Point Market Authority officially kicked off their new strategic partnership. Together, these two leading organizations are bridging the worlds of kitchen, bath, and home furnishings—creating new opportunities for collaboration, education, and inspiration across the design spectrum.

“The kitchen is the new living room,” said Bill Darcy, Global President and CEO of NKBA. “As homes evolve, designers need the tools and knowledge to think holistically. Our partnership with High Point Market brings those worlds together in one dynamic space.”

Welcome to Broad Hall: NKBA’s Design Hub

The day began beneath clear Carolina skies at Broad Hall, NKBA’s newly opened design hub at High Point Market. The historic venue has been transformed into a stunning showcase of integrated kitchen, bath, and whole-home design, featuring immersive vignettes by NKBA Board Member Kerrie Kelly, CEO and Creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studio.

Guests enjoyed the Southern hospitality with mimosas garnished with fresh strawberries and pimento cheese sandwiches before touring the vignettes and joining the morning’s panels and tours. Each installation—from appliances and lighting to vanities and surfaces—spotlighted NKBA member brands including Cosentino, Codarus, Kichler, James Martin Vanities, Ferguson Home, Sherwin-Williams, Fabuwood, Blue Star, Signature Hardware, Miele, Urban Bonfire, Freepower, Blanco, Lutron, Feeney, and Azenco.

Panel Spotlight: Expanding Your Expertise into Kitchen & Bath Design

At 10 a.m., Designers Today’s Executive Editor Andrea Lillo led a lively discussion on how designers can expand into the kitchen and bath segment. Panelists included:

• Sarah Robertson, AKBD, Studio Dearborn
• Kelly Collier-Clark, House of Clark Interiors
• Shae Wilder, National Trade Marketing Manager, BlueStar
• Pam Durkin, President, James Martin Vanities

Panelists shared their personal journeys and insights on translating their design sensibilities into kitchen and bath spaces, as well as the value of NKBA membership. “It totally validates your expertise,” said Collier-Clark, whose residential work inspired her to take on full-scale bath renovations. Robertson discussed the increasing client demand for functional yet elevated kitchens while Durkin and Wilder emphasized the power of partnership: “Collaboration between designers and manufacturers is where the real innovation happens,” Wilder said.

Color Forecast Comes Alive

In the afternoon, following Architecture Digest editor-in-chief Amy Astley signing copies of the just released AD at Home, Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams, presented The Evolution of Color: Anthology Volume Two—a data-driven exploration of 2026’s emerging color trends.

Her presentation explored four new palettes—Frosted Tints, Sunbaked Hues, Restorative Darks, and Foundational Neutrals—inspired by well-being, nature, and cultural shifts. Wadden noted the growing importance of neuroaesthetics in design, explaining how softer tones can help support emotional wellness and inclusivity. “Design is about connection and comfort,” Wadden shared. “We’re seeing color evolve toward warmth and grounding—spaces that feel restorative, yet forward-looking.”

Evening Celebration: NKBA x Cosentino Ribbon Cutting

Industry media tours—including Veranda, Elle Decor, Designers Today, Galerie, and KBDN—continued throughout the day, exploring Broad Hall’s installations and engaging with NKBA’s brand partners. Then, as the sun set, guests gathered for a cocktail reception and ribbon cutting to celebrate NKBA’s debut at High Point Market and Cosentino’s new showroom within Broad Hall. 

After prosecco and canapes were passed and the DJ spun Dua Lipa beats, the ribbon cutting commenced in front of a packed house of industry who’s who’s. NKBA’s Darcy and Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer, Domestic & Global Brands, along with Cosentino Vice President for A&D Patty Dominguez and High Point Market Authorities President and CEO Tammy Covington welcomed attendees and toasted to a partnership that promises to redefine cross-category design collaboration.

“This is an amazing activation that marks a new chapter in our partnership with High Point Market Authority,” Morrison said. ”Today’s designers don’t create rooms in isolation. The whole home is the future, and High Point is really at the center of that conversation.”

Check out today’s highlights, including “Designing with Light, Finish & Form,” moderated by Kathryn Given, Executive Director of Editorial & Brand Content, Luxe Interiors + Design, and “NKBA Panel: 2026 Report–The Latest Data on Kitchen Design Trends,” moderated by Karen Carroll, Editor at Large, FLOWER Magazine.