Emma Dixon and Suzanne Rickard welcomed guests with NKBA swag.
Not everyone can visit Design Week in Milan, so our Columbia River Chapter decided to bring it home to Portland.
57 people showed up for “One Week in Milan” hosted at the Z Collection luxury tile showroom founded by NKBA member Zee Coleman.
Located in Portland’s NW district where tile showrooms abound, Z Collection stands out because of its large, wide-open space. “It’s such a perfect event venue,” said Chapter Communications Chair Bethany Broussard.
Guests mingled while sipping aperitivos and enjoying caprese sandwiches before sitting down to a presentation by freelance design journalist and creative director, Damon Johnstun.
Damon, who has been reporting on Milan Design Week for two decades, spent over an hour diving into his “best in show” from Milan–including the Rosa Levanto red marble that is currently sweeping Italy.
The “Rosa Levanto” marble now popular in Italian countertops and decorative fixtures
“Damon’s taste was everything from 70’s Scandinavian to Japanese minimalist,” said Bethany. “My favorite part was seeing the reactions to his picks. Sometimes he’d be talking about a piece of furniture, and you could see some designers agree with him, and others turning to each other and shaking their heads ‘no way’!”
The event doubled as a membership drive. NKBA members who brought non-members received a Milan-inspired tote bag with Italian wine, a wine cork, pasta, pesto, cocktail napkins, and a chocolate sampler.
The Columbia River Chapter put together a board showcasing the benefits of NKBA membership
It’s countdown to KBIS week! On Tuesday, September 1, NKBA members will receive an invitation to register for KBIS 2027 at no cost. This offer is for general members only. Chapter Officers will be pre-registered as VIPs, so please do not register using the complimentary link unless you are rotating off council this year.
We have so much in store for our return to Las Vegas in February, and Voices from the Industry (VFTI) will have the most exciting update of all! For the first time ever, VFTI will feature a keynote speaker. We’re thrilled to announce that Laura Kohlerwill take the stage on Tuesday, February 2. Please encourage your members to register for VFTI in September, when show passes are complimentary and VFTI registration is at its lowest rate.
Also on September 1, self-nominations open for NKBA’s national committees, including the Chapter Leadership Committee(CLC). There are two openings on the CLC. Five current or former Chapter Officers serve on the committee, each for a three-year term. To be eligible, candidates must have completed at least one full two-year Chapter Officer term within the past two years. Please click here for more information.
The highly anticipated NKBA | KBIS Design Competition is now live! Submit your projects by October 4, 2026, for your chance to showcase your work among the best in the industry and win cash prizes.
Summer may be winding down, but our 70 Chapters are keeping the heat turned up! September brings an epic mix of high-energy networking, cutting-edge learning, and straight-up fun with members.
In Southwest Florida, cool surface style meets warm community vibes with a lively afternoon at Cosentino City with a CEU Event. Alaska is rolling out the big wheels for their legendary 4th annual Parade of Homes. Central Ohio is diving deep into the science of steam cooking before taking inspiration on the road with an eye-opening Home- A- Rama. Ottawa is looking ahead to the future of design with an AI Event, and Minnesota State is educating members on natural stone with a rapid-fire CEU Sprints virtual event designed to educate and connect members state-wide and beyond.
Join us in the last week of September for our Third Annual Education Appreciation Week. We’ll cap the week on Friday, September 25 with a virtual NKBA Student Design Symposium. Register here today.
Have a great month filled with inspired design, meaningful connection, and lots of NKBA energy!
As part of NKBA’s third annualEducation Appreciation Week, the Fall 2026 NKBA Student Design Symposium on Friday, September 25 is a free career development event designed to inspire and equip students for a successful future. This year’s theme, “Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills,” features a timely and inspired keynote from Sharon L. Sherman, CKD, as well as expert-led breakout sessions. Students, educators, and passionate lifelong learners are invited to attend!
Register here and share the registration link with your relevant chapter members.
Student members are encouraged to enter NKBA’s annual Student Design Competition featuring top prizes up to $5,000. The deadline to enter is June 4, 2027.
NKBA will start accepting self-nominations for its national elections on September 1. This is an opportunity to take volunteerism from the local to the national level by serving on the association’s Board of Directors (BOD) or one of its key standing committees. Open positions include:
Board of Directors (BOD) – Three positions
Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC) – Two positions
Leadership Recruitment Committee (LRC) – Two positions
KBIS Exhibitor Committee (KEC) – Three positions
To be considered for the Board of Directors, Chapter Leadership Committee or Leadership Recruitment Committee, candidates must be NKBA members in good standing. To learn more about open national volunteer roles, go here.
Please note that Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC) applicants must be a current chapter officer or have previously served at least one full term as a chapter officer within the last two years. The applicant does not need to maintain officer status, however, to remain in the CLC position.
Additionally, to be eligible for election to the KBIS Exhibitor Committee, applicants must have been an exhibitor at KBIS 2026 and must commit to exhibit at KBIS 2027.
The application process is a crucial first step in shaping the future leadership of our Association. The Leadership Recruitment Committee conducts a thorough and intentional review of every submission, making a complete, detailed application essential to giving your background the consideration it deserves.
Think of this application as your canvas: it is your primary opportunity to highlight your proudest accomplishments, demonstrate your dedication to volunteer service, and convey your enthusiasm for expanding your impact within our community. Taking the time to provide thoughtful, fully realized responses ensures the committee gains a complete picture of your unique strengths, vision, and readiness to lead.
Nominations will close September 30 at 5 PM ET, so be sure to apply!
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. A repository of newsletters, as well as additional resources to self-advocate on issues important to you, can be found on the Government Relations webpage.
Hot topics this month include:
U.S. Department of Energy: Secretary Wright announced the Department of Energy (DOE) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to permanently end home appliance and equipment mandates for household appliances and equipment, including air conditioning units, gas stoves, washing and drying machines, water heaters, refrigerators, and other products.
U.S. Tariffs:
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has taken action targeting companies accused of circumventing U.S. trade laws governing imported cabinets and vanities.
Trade disputes between the U.S. and Canada escalate as both countries increase tariffs on billions of dollars of goods including those used in residential construction.
U.S. Housing:The Eleanor Smith Inclusive Home Design Act of 2026 is introduced in both chambers of Congress and would require all newly constructed, federally assisted, single-family houses and town houses to meet minimum standards of visitability for persons with disabilities.
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, with any specific questions.
Professional Development
Please join NKBA in congratulating our newest NKBA CKBD and NKBA Specialty Badge earners, listed below.
Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer(CKBD):
Congratulations to our newest NKBA Certified members and kudos to their Chapters!
Samantha Manuel, CKBD, Texas North Plains; Giovanna Berrios Laucella, CKBD, Georgia; Kimberly Melchior, CKBD, Chapter Officer San Diego.
Specialty Badges:
Katie Gorham, Distefano Brothers Construction, Remodeling, Northern New England
Maryellen Shaughnessy, Carole Kitchen and Bath Design, Remodeling, Northern New England
Hailey Westrun, Home Depot, Floor Plans & Specifications, Texas South Plains
Amy Davidson, Home,Depot, Appliance, Central Florida
Julie Senzig-Wescott, NKBA, Color, Northern New Jersey
Patty Gallagher, Avon Plumbing, Remodeling, Southern New England
Melinda Jackson, Melinda J Design LLC, Universal Design, Northern California
Tracey Fogarty, Steir Design Build, Remodeling, Minnesota State
New Members are vital to the success of NKBA and our Chapters. Please send prospective members to membership@nkba.organd we will send detailed information on member benefits, membership cost, certification, badges and more.
Membership Types include business, international business, industry partner, individual, and student. The definitions of each type can be found on the NKBA signup page.
NKBA Membership Signup. Please share this link. In addition, each chapter page has a “Join the NKBA” button. If anyone needs a hard copy of the application, please email info@nkba.org. There is an updated 2026 membership application with new rates.
Company admins can remove employees who are no longer with the company directly through the company profile onwww.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.
Elizabeth Mace, 610-988-6029 Project Manager, Chapters & Professional Development – emace@nkba.org
Chapter Leadership Committee – Click Here. Also located on the Resources page of the website.
Did you miss the previous issue of the Chapter Officer Update, or do you have suggestions for future issues? If so, email chapters@nkba.org .
NKBA | KBIS
NKBA | KBIS Fall 2026 Student Design Symposium
Friday, Sept. 25 | 12:00 – 2:30 PM ET
About
On Demand
Speakers
Virtual Conference
Friday, Sept. 25 | 12:00 – 2:30 PM ET
About
Image courtesy of Getty Images.
NKBA | KBIS Fall 2026 Student Design Symposium
Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills
The Fall 2026 NKBA Student Design Symposium is a virtual career development event designed to complement students’ academic experience in interior design programs. Under the theme “Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills”, the symposium explores how students can hone their existing education and skills. Through a compelling keynote and targeted breakout sessions, students will gain insight into real-world strategies for career growth, creative communication, and the power of mentorship, collaboration, and professional involvement.
The event is hosted by Kelly Ann Ryan, Senior Manager of Professional Development
It is FREE to attend this event. Register today!
Agenda
Keynote: AI, Your Design POV & the Wellbeing Mandate for the Next GenerationKeynote 12:10 PMfeaturing: Sharon Sherman, CKD Founder of Thyme & Place Design
The best rooms aren’t just aesthetically beautiful, they are functionally beautiful as well. In this keynote for the NKBA Student Design Symposium, she brings that philosophy to three questions shaping the next generation of designers, and yes, one of them involves AI.
AI is already part of your process, whether you dictated a voice memo into it or asked it to search for the best coffee shop. Sharon draws on her own workflow, and a hard-won ethical line about copy and paste, to show students how to use AI as a tool without letting it think for them, or quietly homogenize the whole profession in the process.
Next: what actually makes a designer worth hiring? Sharon argues it isn’t a portfolio of pretty renderings, but a point of view: the signature details, instincts, and passions that become a designer’s professional autograph. She walks students through how to start identifying and developing their own Design POV, no matter what style they gravitate toward.
Third, and closest to her heart: the role kitchen and bath designers play in the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of the people who live in the spaces they create. From layered lighting scent, sound, chromotherapy, designing for the life clients want to experience, Sharon makes the case that health, safety, and welfare aren’t optional upgrades. They’re the job.
Equal parts practical and personal, this session gives students a working framework for building careers that are ethical, distinctive, and genuinely useful to the people they’ll design for, the same three things that have kept Sharon in love with this industry for four decades, and counting.
Getting to Know the Latest Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines (5th edition)
Have you been putting off learning the new Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines just issued? Do the 350 pages intimidate you? Tune into this quick “Cliff’s Notes” version of the Guidelines, by one of it’s authors. Get over that procrastination and make the new Guidelines your friend. They are the standard of professional practice for kitchen & bath designers.
Learn why certain guidelines changed so much, why some sections got dropped, and why there are entirely new sections.
The old Guidelines were not thrown out;rather they were studied, dissected, debated, and eventually a consensus was reached for clarifying, expanding, and illustrating each guideline. You need to know this stuff! If you don’t, you may be opening yourself to legal liability.
Walk away with a game plan to navigate through the Guidelines and apply them to all your projects, as applicable. If you tell a client that the minimum aisleway is 48” and they insist on 36”, it’s on them; you’re off the hook.
Finally, there’s one good reason to learn them; since future NKBA contests will judged based on the 2026 Guidelines, you had best meet all of them if you hope to win. (Or at least have a good explanation of why you couldn’t).
Breakout Session OneTrack 2 12:45 PM – 1:20 PMfeaturing: Christine Gee CEO G Interiors Studio & Design Center
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome and Build Your Professional Network
Entering the interior design industry can be intimidating. Whether you are coming directly from a design program or beginning a second or third career, it is easy to look around a room of established professionals and question whether you have enough experience, knowledge, or confidence to belong.
In You Belong in the Room, interior designer and podcast host Christine Gee challenges students and emerging professionals to recognize the value they already bring to the industry. Every class, project, previous career, collaboration, and life experience adds another tool to a professional toolbox and no two designers will enter the profession with exactly the same set of skills.
Drawing from her own career and conversations with accomplished designers, industry leaders, and business experts on The Design Center: Student Edition podcast, Christine explores three important stages of professional growth: recognizing your value, learning from others, and discovering the power of industry relationships. Through practical networking strategies and real-world examples, including the story of a design student who transformed simply showing up into meaningful relationships, professional opportunities, and industry recognition, attendees will learn how small actions can create lasting impressions.
Students will leave with practical ways to approach industry events with greater confidence, build authentic professional relationships, seek mentorship, and become active members of the design community. Most importantly, they will understand that networking is not about asking, “What can this room do for me?” but recognizing what they can contribute to the industry.
You do not have to earn your place in the room. You have to recognize that you already belong there.
Breakout Session OneTrack 3 12:45 PM – 1:20 PMfeaturing: Dean Camastro Vice President of Sales North America Duravit USA & Mike Socha Central Regional Sales Manager Duravit USA
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Building Your Career in the Kitchen & Bath Industry Real-World Advice for Turning Talent into Opportunity
Today’s most successful designers do more than specify individual products; they create complete, cohesive environments that enhance the way people live. This presentation explores how to shift from simply responding to a client’s product requests to confidently guiding them through the design of a fully integrated bathroom experience.
Attendees will learn how to think beyond the toilet, vanity, or faucet and instead approach every project as a carefully curated composition of aesthetics, functionality, wellness, accessibility, and long-term value. Through practical design strategies and real-world examples, students will discover how thoughtful product coordination, effective storytelling, and client-focused communication can transform a basic product selection into a complete design solution.
The session will also introduce consultative selling techniques that help build trust, uncover client needs, and inspire confidence throughout the design process. By understanding how each fixture, finish, and accessory contributes to the overall vision, future designers can create spaces that are more beautiful, more functional, and more meaningful for their clients.
Whether designing a compact powder room or a luxurious primary bath, attendees will leave with a framework for presenting complete bathroom solutions that elevate both the client experience and their own professional value. This presentation empowers the next generation of designers to move beyond selling products and begin creating inspiring spaces that reflect thoughtful design, purposeful specification, and lasting impact.
Say What?!: Communication Tips for Successful Design Projects
Interior design renovation projects will have change orders, mistakes in material orders, something unexpected inside the walls, install errors, and/or misunderstandings. How you navigate the inevitable and unexpected mishaps can be the difference between a completed project and a successful project.
Creativity isn’t something we can just take for granted, be forced to perform on the spot, or be brilliant and perfect every single time. We all can be creative whether you are left or right brained. It’s a skill that takes practice, and it’s a messy fun process once we understand it. It may come more naturally to some but even the most left-brained accountants can be creative. Most of us have taken this skill and ability for granted; it’s become squashed and nearly stamped out of our lives. We then often feel stuck, unproductive, stale, or worse, burnt out. If our ability to make a living rests on our ability to be creative, we simply can’t afford to take a cavalier attitude toward our biggest asset! It doesn’t matter whether you are a designer, builder, salesperson, or engineer; we all need to learn how to cultivate a lifestyle that supports a creative flow so that when we do need to perform on the spot, we will have a lot more success tapping into it brilliantly! We will explore what creativity is, why it’s important in society today, what blocks it and how to cultivate it. You will walk away with tools to start practicing immediately. It is possible to recover from Burn Out!
Breakout Session TwoTrack 3 1:45 PM – 2:20 PMfeaturing: Megan Jansky McIntyre Founder and Creative Director The Marketing Corner
The Invisible Interview: The First Impression You Didn’t Know You Were Making
Today’s homeowners are conducting an invisible interview before they ever pick up the phone, fill out a web form, or schedule a consultation. They are researching your business, evaluating your credibility, and forming opinions before making first contact. In many cases, that first impression determines whether a homeowner reaches out or keeps searching.
This session, led by industry marketing strategist Megan McIntyre, explores the seven trust signals that influence modern purchasing decisions and shape how homeowners evaluate kitchen and bath professionals. Through real-world examples and practical takeaways, attendees will learn what builds trust and what drives homeowner decisions.
From websites and online reviews to project photography and social proof, today’s homeowners have more information than ever before. Participants will explore the factors that shape first impressions and learn how portfolios, content, communication, and responsiveness influence who makes the shortlist and who gets overlooked.
The Invisible Interview framework helps attendees understand what homeowners are really evaluating before they reach out and why some professionals earn the call while others never hear from them. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their client experience, build trust earlier in the process, and stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
This year’s theme: Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills
As part of NKBA’s third annualEducation Appreciation Week, the Fall 2026 NKBA Student Design Symposium on September 25th is a free career development event designed to inspire and equip students for a successful future. This year’s theme, Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills, features a timely and inspired keynote from Sharon Sherman, CKD, as well as expert-led breakout sessions.
“The Student Design Symposium is a great opportunity to gain valuable career development in a virtual conference setting from the comfort of home,” said Kelly Ann Ryan, NKBA’s Senior Manager of Professional Development and host of the symposium. “While many students would love to attend an event in person, it’s not always possible due to time and financial limitations. It’s important for us to bring these kitchen and bath design career opportunities to the up-and-coming members of our community.”
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION:
AI, Your Design POV & the Wellbeing Mandate for the Next Generation
Sharon Sherman, CKD, Founder of Thyme & Place Design
Sharon will cover three important topics for the modern designer. First, she’ll show students how to use AI as a tool without letting it think for them, or quietly homogenize the whole profession in the process. Next, she’ll discuss what makes a designer worth hiring by walking students through how to start identifying and developing their own design POV, no matter what style they gravitate toward. Third, and closest to her heart: the role kitchen and bath designers play in the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of the people who live in the spaces they create. From layered lighting scent, sound, chromotherapy, designing for the life clients want to experience, Sharon makes the case that health, safety, and welfare aren’t optional upgrades. They’re the job.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Building Your Career in the Kitchen & Bath IndustryReal-World Advice for Turning Talent into Opportunity With Dean Camastro, Vice President of Sales North America at Duravit USA. Learn how to approach every project as a carefully curated composition of aesthetics, functionality, wellness, accessibility, and long-term value.
Getting to Know the Latest Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines (5th edition) With Doug Walter, Founder, Doug Walter Architects. Tune into this quick “Cliff’s Notes” version of the Guidelines–the standard of professional practice for kitchen & bath designers.
Ignite Creativity With Paula Kennedy Designer & Owner, Timeless Kitchen Design. Explore what creativity is, what blocks it, and how to cultivate it–with real tools you can start using right away.
You Belong in the Room: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome and Build Your Professional Network With Christine Gee, CEO, G Interiors Studio & Design Center. Discover practical ways to approach industry events with greater confidence and become active members of the design community.
The Invisible Interview: The First Impression You Didn’t Know You Were Making With Megan McIntyre, Founder and Creative Director, The Marketing Corner. Understand the seven trust signals that influence modern purchasing decisions and shape how homeowners evaluate kitchen and bath professionals.
Say What?!: Communication Tips for Successful Design Projects
With Sharon J. Washington, Eclexis Design, LLC. Learn how to leverage the observational skills needed in interior design to improve interactions with clients and colleagues.
The keynote presentation and breakout sessions will be available on demand following the live event.
Why Participate?
Informative Sessions: Gain valuable insights from experienced designers, suppliers, and contractors.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow students and professionals from across the NKBA network.
Interactive and Engaging: Participate in a dynamic virtual conference experience.
Networking, education, and shell-cracking good times
Alex Carvalho and Simone Fertsch
If anyone knows how to do a good lobster bake, it’s our friends at the NKBA Maine Chapter.
The invitation for the 3rd annual bake encouraged members to “come out of their shell and taste the ocean with NKBA Maine”… and that they did–50 people showed up at Bangor Wholesale Laminates. This year’s event drew 50 attendees who also feasted on clam steamers, brisket, and pulled pork–all provided by Jeff’s Catering.
The first hour included a cash bar and the chance to mingle with fellow guests, then Jason Blais of Reve-a-shelf gave his presentation, Reorganizing the Way You Think About Kitchen Design, which included practical tips on lighting, shelving inserts, and budgeting considerations.
The lobster bake is a “North tier designers” event for the Maine Chapter.
“We have a big state,” said Programs Chair Dave Lamb. “People are often unable to drive two hours and back for an event or have to stay overnight, so we rotate North and South locations as much as we can.”
Get the latest NKBA member news, products and events.
Sustainability in Kitchen & Bath Design
August 2026
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has released its Sustainability in Kitchen & Bath Design research report, examining how kitchen and bath professionals view sustainability and how it is evolving from a “nice to have” into an expected part of good design. The study explores designer attitudes, homeowner demand, sustainable solutions, barriers to adoption and the role designers play in introducing sustainable options.
The research is based on an online quantitative survey of NKBA community members across the U.S., including interior and kitchen and bath designers, remodelers, showroom professionals and related trades, with representation across all four U.S. Census regions.
Findings show that sustainability is becoming a core expectation among design professionals, while homeowner interest is expected to grow. Health, wellness and long-term savings resonate more strongly with homeowners than environmental benefits alone, while cost remains a significant barrier to broader adoption.
Key Takeaways
Sustainability Is Becoming a Core Design Expectation: 75% say sustainability is personally important, while 68% say it is professionally important.
Demand Is Expected to Grow: 70% expect homeowner demand for sustainable kitchen and bath design to increase over the next two years.
Health Is the Strongest Driver: 53% cite family health and well-being as the most important benefit driving sustainable design.
Designers Are Leading the Conversation: Designers are more likely than clients to initiate sustainability discussions, giving professionals an opportunity to educate and influence homeowners.
Sustainable Practices Are Becoming More Common: LED lighting, recycling storage and energy-efficient products are among the most frequently integrated solutions.
Barriers to Adoption Are Declining: Lack of information, limited product availability and perceptions that sustainable options are less attractive have all declined since 2025.
The Industry Is Approaching a Tipping Point: 59% expect sustainable design to become a “must have” in the next few years, compared with 37% today.
The report highlights how sustainability is reshaping residential design and the opportunities to make sustainable solutions more practical, attainable and commonplace.
The NKBA webinar program is a fantastic opportunity to share your expertise with thousands of fellow industry professionals. All webinars start at 12:00pm ET, are one hour in length, and feature live Q&A.
As one of our speakers, you and your webinar will be promoted across NKBA platforms including the NKBA website, social media channels, NKBA Newsfeed, and Chapter News.
You will also receive audience feedback and evaluation after your webinar, along with a list of session registrants and attendees that opt into third-party communications. Plus, presenters who are NKBA members are eligible to receive .3 CEUs. for participation.
All speakers are required to pre-record their presentation in advance. NKBA will assist with recording and editing unless otherwise approved by the NKBA team.
There are dozens of 2027 Themes & Topics to choose from, including:
“I think I reach more people in today’s digital world than I do speaking at a show. I love sharing my 41 years in the industry and giving back to an industry that has been so good to me. Many of my attendees have great questions and it allows me to tailor my webinars to be better each time.”
Breaking Down the Key Question for Global Kitchen & Bath Brands
By John Watson, Executive Vice President, Industry Relations & Business Development, IAPMO
I regularly speak with kitchen and bath manufacturers from Europe or Asia who have seemingly done everything right in their home market.
Solid product. Rigorous testing. Genuine commitment to quality.
They arrive in the US and start meeting with distributors, wholesalers, and large retailers. Then someone asks: “Is it listed?”
That question stops a lot of conversations cold.
The U.S. market is not necessarily harder than other markets, but it’s structured in a way that requires a specific kind of preparation–including proper product certification. Understanding that structure early in your product development process affects your speed to market.
Why Your Existing Certifications Don’t Transfer
The most common question I hear from European manufacturers is some version of: “We already have CE certification. Why doesn’t that count here?”
The U.S. system is built on independent, third-party verification, not self-declaration. CE marking, even when backed by rigorous internal testing, is not accepted by U.S. authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs). These local inspectors–the people who actually approve products during construction–need to see marks from accredited third-party certification bodies. That’s the standard expectation in North America.
It’s important to understand there is no single national authority that approves your product for the entire U.S.
Instead, state and local jurisdictions adopt model codes–sometimes with amendments–and enforce them independently. This creates a real complexity that catches many international kitchen and bath brands off guard. A good certification partner helps you anticipate and navigate those variations before they become delays.
What “Certification” Actually Means in This Market
For brands aiming to scale in the U.S., certification is a strategic foundation, not just a regulatory step. Independent certification programs help verify your authenticity through public directories that support enforcement efforts to remove non-compliant and potentially unsafe products from the market.
The marks that carry the most weight in the kitchen and bath category include UPC® and cUPC® for plumbing products, NRTL listings such as IAPMO, UL or ETL for electrical components, IAPMO, NSF, or WQA marks to NSF/ANSI standards for products in contact with drinking water, and the EPA WaterSense logo for water-efficient fixtures.
When an AHJ looks at a product during a building inspection, they are looking for these marks. That mark is shorthand for a documented chain of evidence: an accredited third party tested this product to a specific standard, reviewed the manufacturing documentation, inspected the facility, and listed the product as safe and compliant.
In jurisdictions where code compliance is required, products without a recognized listing simply cannot be installed. Many U.S. distributors, wholesalers, and large retailers prefer or require certified product lines to reduce liability and callbacks, while architects and engineers often require certification marks as part of their submittal review process.
Certification Process Issues That Create the Longest Delays
In my experience, three situations create the most timeline angst for manufacturers entering the U.S. market.
Starting certification too late. A straightforward product with an existing applicable standard and no material concerns can move through testing and certification in roughly 10 to 12 weeks. New technology, non-standard materials, or even a missing drawing or a gap in documentation, adds time. Manufacturers who begin the certification process after signing a distribution agreement are already behind.
Not knowing which standards apply. This sounds basic, but I think I’ve made the point that the U.S. standards landscape is genuinely complex. ASME, ASSE, CSA, NSF, IAPMO, and others each publish standards covering different product categories. Identifying the right standards for your product, including any state-specific requirements such as California’s Title 20 flow rate rules or its lead content regulations, requires expertise in both product categories and regional code adoption.
Offering a product that doesn’t fit any existing standard. This is usually a great thing: you’ve pioneered a new technology! Smart fixtures, integrated filtration systems, and novel materials may not map cleanly to any current standard. This is a solvable problem, but it adds considerable time. The best approach is to surface this issue as early in the development process as possible.
The U.S. market rewards preparation. Manufacturers who understand the landscape before they commit to tooling, distribution agreements, or launch timelines tend to move through the process faster and with fewer surprises.
John Watson is EVP, Industry Relations & Business Development of IAPMO, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. John serves as an NKBA Global Connect Advisor helping international manufacturers navigate U.S. market entry.
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.
All Hands On Deck at the Beloved Annual Community Event
Left to right: Courtney Loveless, Tyler Quinn, Jeanne Middleton, McKenzie Fletcher, Jennifer Acres, Josie Reigelsperger, Lisa Prewitt, Ellie Beerman, and Christian Collins
The RMH provides housing for families receiving care at Children’s Hospital of Cincinnati–creating a home away from home during very difficult circumstances.
SOKY volunteers prepped, cooked, and served lunch to 296 families and staff over the course of four hours.
The charity has a limit of ten volunteers, so the event fills up quickly–and SOKY is serious about making sure the event is properly staffed, with alternates in reserve in case someone can’t make it.
Chefs at RMH select the menu ahead of time. Once the volunteers arrive, they take part in an orientation that includes how to appropriately interact with guests.
“You don’t want to tell someone to have a great day, because that person might not be having a good day,” said Programs Chair Lisa Prewitt. “It definitely puts whatever you have going on in life in perspective.”
“We are busy the whole time, and we have so much fun,” said Lisa. “Members who come to this find so much joy in it, they immediately ask us to sign them up for next year.”
Here’s to a successful summer and Chapter Officer election season!
Elections
This month, our 70 Chapters will hold elections for their 2027-28 Chapter Councils. Whether you’re welcoming new leaders or celebrating returning officers, thank you for your commitment to strengthening the NKBA community.
NKBA Programs Chairs, Membership Chairs, and Secretary/Treasurers elected this summer will begin their two-year terms on January 1, 2027.
Later today, all Chapter Officers will receive a recap of self-nominations submitted, a specific roster of eligible voters for you to send ballots, and an election guidelines checklist to help ensure a smooth election process.
Events
While our summer may be hot and humid, our Chapters continue to stay cool, creative, and connected! Across North America, from coastal shorelines to the high desert, members are coming together through inspiring programs, educational events, and memorable celebrations. Here’s just a sampling of the many events you have planned:
Northern California is dazzling our industry at their annual Design Competition Awards Gala. Arizona is taking time to recharge with a dedicated Spa Event focused on wellness, education, and meaningful networking. Georgia is keeping members’ skills sharp and industry knowledge fresh with a Selling Opportunities CEU, while Nebraska/Kansas smartly addresses Artificial Intelligence with a Cocktails Event.
Congratulations again to our 58 Chapters selected to receive National Housing Endowment’s 2026 Career Connections Grant. Click here to submit your event details and recap report and receive your funds.
We also want to celebrate your Skilled Labor successes with the entire NKBA community. Please remember to submit your complete event details through the Chapter Meeting Financial Report Form so we can showcase your great work.
Need assistance planning a Skilled Trades event? We’re here to help! Please contact chapters@nkba.org or mflynn@nkba.org.
Thirty Under 30
Nominations are now open through August 31 for NKBA’s prestigious Thirty Under 30 program. Nominate yourself or an outstanding colleague for the Class of 2027, to be introduced on the KBIS NextStage on February 2, 2027. Click here to submit a nomination before the end of this month.
CKBD Pathway + Planning Guidelines
NKBA has introduced a new pathway to Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer (CKBD) certification. Members with 7+ years of industry experience (including 3+ years in K&B) are encouraged to apply. Click here to learn more.
Also, order your copy today of NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines, 5th Edition. If you own the 4th Edition, please click here to explore what’s new in the latest release.
Save the Dates
Self-nominations will open September 1 for NKBA’s national Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC). Five current or former Chapter Officers serve on the CLC for three-year terms. To be eligible, candidates must have completed at least one full two-year Chapter Officer term within the past two years. You can learn more about the current CLC members by visiting the Resources > Chapter Officers page on nkba.org.
We’re also looking forward to seeing you this fall at the following events:
Cheers to a great summer season, and thank you for everything you do to support your Chapters and the NKBA community. We look forward to connecting with you during our August Chapter Officer meetings. Have a wonderful week!
“This month, our 70 Chapters will hold elections for their 2027-28 Chapter Councils. Whether you’re welcoming new leaders or celebrating returning officers, thank you for your commitment to strengthening the NKBA community…“
The NKBA 2027 Bath Trends Survey launches August 15! Watch your inbox for your personalized survey link and make your voice heard.
Once again, all NKBA Chapters with 15 or more completed surveys will be entered into a chapter raffle. Members from qualifying chapters who complete the survey will be eligible to win one of three NKBA Prize Packs featuring fan-favorite L2L swag, including NKBA-branded lip balm, mints, a measuring tape, pens, and notebooks.
Plus, every member who completes the survey will automatically be entered into a separate drawing for a chance to win one of five $500 gift cards.
Complete the survey before the deadline to help provide a clearer view of the kitchen and bath industry today and where it’s headed in the future. You’ll also be supporting your chapter’s chance to win and be entered for some great prizes. Don’t miss your opportunity to participate!
A big thank you to all who participated in the Kitchen Trends Survey. The winners of the raffle were Pam Channels of Southern New England Chapter and Shellita McNicholls of Metro New York. We rely upon our Chapter Officers to participate in NKBA surveys as you are leaders in our industry.
One more call for you to get on the inside track. If you haven’t already, we invite you to join the Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub, NKBA’s dedicated research community. It’s a great place to connect with peers, share insights, help shape the future of NKBA Research—and earn rewards along the way.
The 2Q26 Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) and the 2026 Kitchen & Bath Industry Outlook Update Brief are now available. Together, these reports provide a timely snapshot of current business conditions and the latest outlook for the U.S. kitchen and bath industry. The KBMI highlights second-quarter market performance, business sentiment, and key challenges facing industry professionals, while the Outlook Update Brief revises market projections based on the latest economic, housing, and industry data. Whether you’re planning for the months ahead or looking to better understand current market dynamics, these reports offer valuable insights to help inform your business decisions.
Webinars & Virtual Events
NKBA presents the following August Webinars for this month’s Business theme. Webinars begin at 12:00 PM ET with 0.1 CEU per webinar.
Each year, NKBA puts the spotlight on our student members and affiliated schools throughout Education Appreciation Week. This year, we’re honoring this special community September 21-25. Please mark your calendars. We encourage chapters to think about ways to celebrate the schools in their regions and to highlight any local student achievements.
NKBA caps off this great week of celebration with the annual Student Design Symposium, a live, virtual conference, dedicated to career development for student designers. This year’s symposium is scheduled for Friday, September 25, 2026 at 12 PM ET. A registration link will be shared soon. The event is free and open to all design students.
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. A repository of newsletters, as well as additional resources to self-advocate on issues important to you, can be found on the Government Relations webpage.
U.S. Housing: The bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act with key provisions related to addressing housing affordability and streamlining regulatory processes becomes law.
Missouri:Governor Kehoe signs Senate Bill 1233 into law modifying the state’s interior design profession by granting licensed interior designers the ability to practice independently and sign and seal their own documents – but the bill in no way impacts designers who do not wish to become licensed in Missouri.
North Carolina: State takes action to address skilled labor shortage with budget allocation of nearly $60 million in Propel NC, a community college workforce development initiative, and more than $3 million for ApprenticeshipNC.
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, with any specific questions.
Professional Development
Gain CEU credits with NKBA’s Webinars. CEU reporting deadline has been extended to August 9, 2026. Please submit your CEUs before the extended deadline as it will not be extended again. Thank you! Earn and report today!
Please join NKBA in congratulating our newest NKBA CKBD and Specialty Badge earners, listed below.
Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer(CKBD):
Congratulations to our newest NKBA Certified member and kudos to their Chapter!
New Members are vital to the success of NKBA and our Chapters. Please send prospective members to membership@nkba.organd we will send detailed information on member benefits, membership cost, certification, badges and more.
Membership Types include business, international business, industry partner, individual, and student. The definitions of each type can be found on the NKBA signup page.
NKBA Membership Signup. Please share this link. In addition, each chapter page has a “Join the NKBA” button. If anyone needs a hard copy of the application, please email info@nkba.org. There is an updated 2026 membership application with new rates.
Company admins can remove employees who are no longer with the company directly through the company profile onwww.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.
How Designers Win in the 2026 Search Era: AI, Google, and Buyer Behavior
When:
August 11, 2026 | 12:00 PM ET
Presenter:
Kate Stallings
CEUs: .1
Register your information
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What You Will Learn
Search is no longer just about ranking on Google, it’s about being chosen by AI-driven search results before a customer ever clicks a website. In this webinar, we’ll break down how AI-powered search (Google AI Overviews, Bing Copilot, voice search, and conversational search tools) is reshaping how homeowners discover, evaluate, and contact kitchen and bath professionals. Attendees will learn what has changed, what still matters, and what practical steps NKBA members should take to remain visible, competitive, and compliant in 2026 and beyond.
This session is designed specifically for kitchen & bath designers, remodelers, and design-build firms who want clarity, not hype around digital visibility, lead quality, and future-proofing their marketing investments.
Learning Objectives:
How AI-powered search is changing the buyer journey for home renovation and design services.
Why many “traditional SEO tactics” are losing effectiveness — and what replaces them.
How websites must evolve to support AI visibility, accessibility, and trust signals.
Featured Presenter
Kate Stallings Owner, Kate Creative Media
Kate Stallings is the Founder of Kate Creative Media, a digital marketing and web strategy firm specializing in home services, construction, and design-based businesses across the United States.
With over eight years of experience, Kate partners with contractors, remodelers, design-build firms, and professional service companies to help them strengthen digital visibility, attract higher-quality leads, and build sustainable growth systems. Her work focuses on aligning website strategy, search behavior, and business operations particularly as AI-powered search, accessibility standards, and compliance requirements continue to reshape how consumers discover and evaluate service providers.
Kate is known for her practical, no-fluff approach to marketing. Rather than chasing trends or vanity metrics, she emphasizes long-term positioning, trust signals, conversion strategy, and risk-aware digital infrastructure. She helps business owners understand not just what tools to use, but why they matter and how to implement them in a way that supports real revenue outcomes.
She has presented for industry organizations and professional associations, translating complex topics such as AI-driven search, modern SEO, and website compliance into clear, actionable guidance. Her presentations are designed to empower business owners and leadership teams with the clarity needed to make informed marketing decisions without becoming technical experts.
Kate’s mission is to help service-based businesses adapt confidently to digital change while building brands that are visible, credible, and positioned for long-term success.
CEU Requirements
To earn a CEU for watching this webinar on-demand, complete the quiz below and notify our CEU department for credit: [Link]
Disclaimer: This quiz will be available after the webinar airs. We only offer two opportunities to take the quiz for CEU credit.
Positive Near-Term Activity Offers Optimism for Improving Conditions
Image courtesy of Getty Images.
By NKBA Editorial Staff
The Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI), which measures growth in the U.S. residential kitchen and bath industry, remained flat year-over-year at 53 out of 100, as K&B pros said ongoing consumer uncertainty, driven largely by rising material costs and trade tensions, is slowing demand and limiting growth.
The 2Q26 Kitchen and Bath Market Index(KBMI)Report, conducted jointly by the NKBA and John Burns Research and Consulting, reflects the insights provided by 500 NKBA members across four segments: design, building and remodeling, retail, and manufacturing. The manufacturing sector was the one segment that upgraded its KBMI rating (+1%) in this latest survey as it continued to experience modest expansion, yet it also downgraded its expected residential sales growth (-5%) for the year.
Despite headwinds, K&B pros’ sentiment about the economic health of the industry has remained essentially unchanged over the past year.
Some additional findings from this latest research:
A Dip in Expected Revenue Growth
K&B firms now expect -2% revenue growth in 2026, down from +4% last quarter, with downgrades cross all segments. Retail segment firms expect to fare best, projecting +5% revenue growth in 2026. While all K&B segments downgraded their full-year growth outlook from 1Q to 2Q, all but the manufacturing segment still projected modest, single-digit growth this year.
Cost Pressures and Tariffs are Top Concerns
Once again, K&B professionals cited consumer uncertainty most as the leading constraint to their growth (49%). That was followed closely by rising building material costs (42%), which jumped significantly (+12%) from the previous quarter. More than a third (36%) of the surveyed pros said tariffs and trade issues will negatively impact their growth over the next six months, and 40% said they have passed tariff-related costs through to consumers.
Consumers are Looking for Ways to Save
Price sensitivity is holding back kitchen and bath spending. More than a third of design firms reported that consumers, concerned about higher prices, are shifting to lower price points – the highest share since this measure was first recorded in 2023, and up +13% from 1Q26.
Positive Signs of Near-Term Activity
Despite challenges, kitchen and bath firms reported higher expected sales in the upcoming quarter (65 out of 100) as compared to the same period last year (59 out of 100). It’s the highest 2Q value in three years, which could be an early indicator of improving conditions over the coming months.
“There’s no doubt that macroeconomic factors are posing a range of challenges for consumers and K&B professionals alike,” said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO, NKBA I KBIS. “While expectations for this year have definitely been somewhat tempered, our research indicates that firms continue to hold steady as they make adjustments to take advantage of available opportunities.”
Get the latest NKBA member news, products and events.
Q2 2026 NKBA/ John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI)
The Q2 2026 NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) provides a comprehensive look at current conditions, future expectations, and emerging challenges across the residential kitchen and bath industry. Based on insights from 500 NKBA community members representing the Design, Building and Remodeling, Manufacturing, and Retail sectors, the report tracks industry performance, consumer demand, pricing, project activity, and business sentiment.
This quarter’s report examines key industry performance measures, identifies market strengths and weaknesses, tracks changes in consumer demand, and explores the pressures currently affecting kitchen and bath businesses. It also highlights the strategies companies are using to manage tariff-related costs, shifting price expectations, slowing project activity, and continued economic uncertainty.
Industry Snapshot: Kitchen and bath market conditions softened in Q2 2026 as consumer hesitation, affordability concerns, rising material costs, and trade-related pressures continued to weigh on demand. Industry firms reported flat year-over-year sales overall, while their revenue-weighted outlook for full-year 2026 growth fell to -2%, down from +4% in the prior quarter.
Key Takeaways
The overall KBMI score declined to 52.7 out of 100 in Q2 2026, down from 54.9 in Q1. While the index remains above the 50-point threshold indicating expansion, the decline reflects weaker current sales conditions and a more cautious industry outlook.
Three of the four industry sectors reported lower KBMI ratings this quarter. Design showed the greatest weakness, with its index falling below 50 to 49.7. Building and Remodeling registered 53.2, Retail reached 53.5, and Manufacturing increased to 55.5, making it the only segment to improve during the quarter.
Current market activity slipped below the expansion threshold, with the Current K&B Activity Index declining to 47.7. Design, Building and Remodeling, and Retail all reported contracting year-over-year sales activity, while Manufacturing remained modestly positive.
Despite current challenges, industry professionals remain cautiously optimistic about the months ahead. The Near-Term K&B Activity Index measured 65.2, with all four sectors expecting sales conditions to improve in Q3 2026. Manufacturing was the only segment to raise its near-term expectations during the quarter.
Additional insights explore changes in project completions and postponements, pricing pressures, tariff impacts, segment-level performance, and regional market trends. The report offers valuable context for kitchen and bath professionals navigating a price-sensitive and uncertain business environment.
