Lehigh Carbon Community College’s designers of the future got to experience the NKBA | KBIS headquarters in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
By Nicholas Tamarin
On the night of Wednesday, March 26, NKBA | KBIS held a super fun meet and greet at its Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, headquarters for students from Lehigh Carbon Community College in nearby Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. Attendees included students from the Kitchen and Bath Design Principles class, as well as recent graduates and those graduating this semester.
Educators Jim DePietro, Professor and Coordinator of Mechanical/Construction Technology, and Erin Piar, instructor of Kitchen & Bath Principles, were on hand as the local students were offered a deeper understanding of NKBA | KBIS and the value of association participation in their careers. Students had the opportunity to tour national headquarters and interact with NKBA | KBIS Global President and CEO Bill Darcy, who was on hand to greet the future members of the kitchen and bath industry. The event also facilitated networking with local chapter members, including honored guests such as former NKBA Board President John Petrie, CMKBD, owner at Mother Hubbard’s Custom Cabinetry and Elizabeth Marcocci, CMKBD, Kitchen and Bath Designer at Mother Hubbard’s Custom Cabinetry, who enthusiastically met with the potential future designers. Furthermore, two NKBA Specialty Badges were given away to students after a brief trivia session. The program offers a manageable credential and a pathway to further NKBA education—learn more here!
My NKBA | KBIS colleagues and I were honored to represent our members for the first time at the 2025 German International Sanitaryware and HVAC Show (ISH), the world’s leading trade show for water and HVAC, held recently in Frankfurt.
This impressive event showcased industry brands across five separate halls, featuring new product and technology introductions in decorative and commercial plumbing.
It was a pleasure to meet with many of our Global Connect brand partners at ISH, including NKBA member organizations with headquarters based in Germany: TOTO, BLANCO Group, Hansgrohe Group, Geberit, and Duravit AG are all valued partners both domestically and internationally. I also had great conversations with C-suite, marketing, and product development leaders from many other impressive brands. Our Global Connect international business development initiative continues to build meaningful relationships with and between international businesses as we work to create a more connected kitchen and bath community.
Another highlight was hosting a dinner with NKBA Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partners, most of which are major international trade associations that help raise awareness of the Global Connect program with their members. It’s another important avenue for fostering greater understanding and exchange among K&B companies around the world.
Three key themes emerged for me from ISH 2025. The first was the astounding innovation in beautiful, consumer-centric design, from faucets to showers to ceramic fixtures. Second was sustainability and an increasing appreciation for water and its conservation. Lastly, product Innovation – for both the end user (consumer) and the stakeholders within the plumbing ecosystem, including designers and installers.
Design, Sustainability, and Innovation are three core pillars that are also at the forefront of the North American market. At KBIS 2025, we experienced these themes across multiple categories. These pillars are table stakes to success in today’s K&B landscape.
I gave a presentation on the North American market outlook, sharing insights about NKBA’s work and our research on kitchen and bath industry size, behaviors, and trends. As you can imagine, many of the inquiries I fielded during my time at ISH were about predictions regarding the expected impact of changing U.S. federal policies, especially tariff increases. As I told my friends and colleagues in Frankfurt, we are keeping a close eye on all of these rapidly-changing developments.
Once again, it was exciting to engage with kitchen and design professionals from across Europe and other parts of the world. My thanks go to ISH organizer Messe Frankfurt GmbH, whose hospitality and insights were greatly appreciated. There were so many valuable takeaways about the vital German market, as well as emerging global trends and opportunities.
These conversations and experiences are critical to advancing the K&B industry here in North America and beyond.
NKBA’s Big Sky and Mountain States Spring Meeting took place at the stylish Renegade Hotel in Boise, Idaho, bringing together members from across the region for a dynamic day of insight, inspiration, and industry connection.
Scott Abel and Josh Stokoe of the NKBA Big Sky Chapter, along with Rachel Hutchens, CMKBD, President of the Mountain States Chapter, welcomed attendees and kicked off the event by recognizing the many generous sponsors who made it possible.
The program began on a lively note with Katye Bennett, CEO of KMB Communications, who shared her passionate perspective on connecting the design and technology industries. Her message was clear: the future is where design meets innovation.
Deb Webb, EVP of Operations & KBIS at NKBA, then took the stage with a rich presentation covering recent research trends, a KBIS 2025 recap, and a first look at the newly launched Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub. “Customization is king,” she emphasized, echoing a broader industry shift toward more tailored client solutions. Deb also addressed the ongoing skilled labor shortage and encouraged attendees to deepen their chapter involvement as a way to strengthen the industry from within.
Next, David Weinstein, VP of Residential Sales at Lutron, wowed the audience with a talk on intelligent lighting solutions. “This is how technology should be applied: it’s a fundamental feeling, it’s hard to describe, but people desire to experience it,” he shared, reminding everyone that the best design is felt, not just seen. “If you enhance the lifestyle of your clients, you’re winning every time.”
Tom Knotts, President of the NKBA Central Florida Chapter and owner of Adalay Interiors, brought a practical tech lens to kitchen design with insights on cabinetry innovation, color trends by region, and sustainable practices. His standout message: “As industry professionals, it is our job to educate the client or end user of the benefits of the changing products in the market. This is what will set us apart from the rest.”
To close the main stage sessions, Kelly Buchsbaum, Director of Chapters & Learning for NKBA | KBIS spoke about what’s ahead for NKBA chapters, the specialty badge program offerings, and ways to get more involved in shaping the future of the profession.
Attendees enjoyed dedicated sponsor showcases between sessions and then split into CEU breakout groups, diving deep into expert-led discussions on everything from human-centric lighting and universal design to 3D software for selling, energy management, customized shower solutions, and authentic luxury in the kitchen and bath space.
A relaxed yet engaged audience soaked up new ideas and built new connections throughout the day. The event was a strong reminder of the power of community and the value of sharing knowledge across chapters.
NKBA’s Big Sky and Mountain States Spring Meeting was generously sponsored by: Ferguson, True Residential, DeWils, Rosewater Energy, Chief Architect Software, Monogram, Fisher & Paykel, MLD, House of Rohl, Coastal Pacific Marketing, Covered Bridge Cabinetry, Leon, Cutco, Homestead Cabinet & Furniture, Material Bank, MarshMcLennan Agency, Domestic Habitat, Seura, Market Share, Lutron, Cosentino, Watermark, Excel Marketing, Emtek, Organized Living, Luxx Kitchen and Bath, Pacific Specialty Brands.
Hosted by the Northern California Chapter, the annual event provides future designers with a wealth of professional resources.
By Nicholas Tamarin
Looking to the Future
NKBA | KBIS is dedicated to supporting the next generation of student designers. A key initiative in this effort is the annual Student Design Symposium, a virtual, interactive conference designed exclusively for future kitchen and bath professionals. These events provide invaluable opportunities for students to learn from industry leaders, network with peers, and gain insights into the world of kitchen and bath design.
The NKBA Student Design Symposium and related initiatives play a crucial role in shaping the future of the kitchen and bath industry. By providing students with access to education, networking opportunities, and valuable resources, the NKBA empowers them to succeed in their design careers. These events and programs help to foster a vibrant and innovative community of future design professionals.
A Virtual Hub for Learning and Connection
The NKBA Student Design Symposium is hosted by the Northern California Chapter and supported by NKBA’s Learning Department. SDS offers a dynamic online experience, where students can register and access a wealth of resources and engaging sessions. These virtual events eliminate geographical barriers, allowing students from across the nation to participate and connect.
Interactive Sessions and Networking Opportunities
This year’s Student Design Symposium featured an impactful keynote presentation, “Designing a Business with Values and Purpose,” by Nureed Saeed, NKBA Northern California Chapter President and 2023 KBB Person of the Year.
Originally developed and directed by Sharon Washington, CKBD, of Eclexis Design, the Student Design Symposium includes concurrent sessions led by leading professionals in the field from across the U.S., Canada, and France. Washington, Northern California Chapter’s previous Programs Chair and Volunteer of the Year, expressed that it is an honor to lead the SDS program. “The speakers at SDS 2025 were fantastic and shared their values and professional expertise in such an accessible manner. Their passion for design and working with clients is contagious, and NKBA student members always appreciate and benefit from the opportunity SDS provides every year to interact with the speakers, as well as network and connect with peers and other industry professionals,” Washington said. Door prizes and sponsor giveaways added an element of excitement and fun to the event.
The SDS 2025 sessions included the following topics and speakers:
Your Design Biz Starter Kit: The 5 Essentials + Your Design Website Roadmap
Steven Stafford, Trade Partner Lead and Senior Sales Associate, Airport Home Appliance
Working with General Contractors: Insights for Successful Projects
Anna Janke, NCIDQ, WRID, Peridot Design Group, Waukesha County Technical College
Supporting Student Development
The NKBA’s commitment to student development extends beyond the symposium. The organization offers a range of benefits to student members, including:
The NKBA | KBIS Student Newsletter, a quarterly e-newsletter featuring interviews with industry professionals, coverage of emerging design trends, and career development tips.
Free membership for students from any post-secondary school, thanks to the support of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.
Discounts on educational resources.
Access to scholarships.
Eligibility to enter the NKBA Student Design Competition, sponsored by Fisher & Paykel.
NKBA | KBIS Global President and CEO Bill Darcy has hit the road highlighting water use reduction—without compromising performance—to address global scarcity.
By Nicholas Tamarin
Last fall, leaders in the bathroom manufacturing industry including NKBA | KBIS Global President and CEO Bill Darcy, convened at St. George’s House, Windsor Castle in England, for the Windsor Summit on Water Scarcity and Antimicrobial Resistance. Hosted by Tom Reynolds and the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, it shed light on the critical issue of water scarcity, affecting over two billion people globally.
The summit emphasized the unique position of bathroom manufacturers to address this crisis through product innovations that reduce leaks and waste, and promote more efficient and sustainable infrastructure. “As Global President and CEO of NKBA | KBIS, I signed the summit’s declaration on behalf of our association and its 55,000 members, affirming our commitment to a more sustainable future,” Darcy says. “The NKBA intends to raise awareness for these global health issues and support our members as they work to fulfill this commitment.”
Darcy continued this vital conversation at KBIS 2025, first at the Ferguson Home–sponsored panel “The Windsor Declaration: Driving Global Change” at the NKBA |KBIS NEXTStage. Moderated by Reynolds, it featured a heavyweight lineup of international stakeholders including Darcy along with Kohler’s Chief Sustainability Officer Laura Kohler; Matt Sigler, PMG Executive Director, International Code Council; Jen Cassidy, CEO, Bristan Group/MASCO; and Troy Benavidez, Leader of International Government Relations and Policy, LIXIL International.
Then, Darcy took part in Toto’s stellar lineup of activations with “Technology, Sustainability, and the Future of the Plumbing Industry,” an esteemed panel discussion once again featuring Reynolds, this time paired with Fernando Fernandez. Throughout, these industry thought leaders explored how technology is driving sustainable innovation, covering key topics such as leveraging IoT for smarter water management, reducing environmental impact through cutting-edge materials, and advancing eco-friendly product design. The discussions highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability across the industry, along with other key issues shaping the future of plumbing.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out the “The Windsor Declaration: Driving Global Change” and all other NKBA |KBIS NEXTStage activations here; along with Toto’s panel discussion on demand here. For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.
A lively and informative session, called Designing for Legacy: Insights & Inspiration from the 2025 NKBA Design Council, brought together the council’s four well-known and respected interior designers and kicked off three days of programming at NKBA NEXTStage at KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas on February 25. The group—Caleb Anderson of New York–based Drake/Anderson (which is becoming /AND Design); Michel Smith Boyd of Atlanta–based Smith Boyd Interiors and MSB; Thom Filicia of New York–based Thom Filicia Inc.; and Celerie Kemble of Palm Beach, FL– and New York-based Kemble Interiors—was first introduced at KBIS 2024. This year’s session at NEXTStage, which is sponsored by Ferguson Home, was designed to highlight each member’s “origin story” and path to excelling in their chosen field.
Moderator William Hanley, Editor-in-Chief of Dwell magazine, got right to it, asking each member of the Design Council to talk about “how and why you do what you do.”
Mom Knows Best
Kemble said her origin story was predestined. “My mom is an interior designer and I was forced as a child to look at pretty houses in every town we visited,” she explained. Although Kemble decided to major in film production in college—and admits she got a C in drawing class—she later realized on the job that she was having the most fun decorating the office. “I’m a curator of the language of things,” she noted.
Lucky for her, Kemble’s mom had some projects for her daughter up her sleeve. “She unleashed me on all of the single guys I went to college with,” she recalls of her first clients who were then working at investment firms in New York and needed their apartments decorated.
Drawing Attention
Filicia recalled the moment in 5th grade when his class had a substitute teacher and he proceeded to draw an entire house on his classroom desk—on the actual desk. While his artwork landed him in the principal’s office and he had to hand write “I will not draw on my desk” over and over, his artistic crime was photographed and ended up getting him into an advanced art class in 6th grade.
Filicia admitted that he thought he wanted to be an architect, but by college he was also drawn to industrial and interior design. Ultimately, he discovered that he loved being in the interior design space, noting that the desire to be around beautiful things took root at an early age. “I would actually hide things in the house that I grew up in that I didn’t like,” he recalled. “You could say interior design found me.”
Artsy, Quirky Beginnings
Having grown up in a small town in Texas, Anderson described himself as “an artsy, quirky kid” who loved helping his mom design the family’s spaces at home. He also adored spending time at the home of an aunt who had a lot of beautiful things. By high school, he says he had all the magazines and books that celebrated design and he was helping his aunt redecorate the house that he had long been fascinated with.
He majored in design in college and after an internship with designer Jamie Drake in college, he launched his own firm before being asked in 2015 to join Drake as a partner in Drake/Anderson as part of a 10-year succession plan, which has now resulted in the company becoming /AND Design with Anderson as the sole principal. Anderson said that while early in his career his priority was getting press for his work, he is now “more interested in incorporating more purpose into my work.”
A Little of This and a Little of That
Smith Boyd recalled “coming alive in art class,” but also wanting to be an actor and then studying nursing in college and even working as a hair stylist for a while. “I needed every chapter along the way to be where I am now,” explained the multifaceted designer who helms his own design studio as well as having starred in several HGTV series, including “Luxe For Less.” His guiding principle, he said, has been “having a license to make something out of nothing.”
Smith Boyd said he was 28 years old when he went to design school—after hiring an interior designer when he moved to New York and questioning why the designer was charging him more for particular items. “I was the client and I didn’t understand mark-up,” he laughed.
Design Style & Breakthrough Projects
On the topic of their personal design style and the projects that put them on the map, Kemble recalled being asked by a man to design an entire house for his wife “who had great taste.” The wife turned out to be fashion designer Tory Burch, the house ended up being beautiful, and it was photographed for a top design magazine. “Being published changes your status in the design community and people will come to you wanting similar work,” she said.
“What is your style?” asked Hanley. “First of all, I do a lot of work that isn’t my style,” Kemble explained, “but when it is my style I favor an eclectic mix of fashionable and traditional,” noting her use of vintage and antique pieces as well as color and pattern. “I mix things.”
Filicia said that when he started in the business he worked for Parish-Hadley and grew to appreciate classic design with a clean modernist approach. His personal design sense, he said, “is rooted in things I am attracted to,” with a lifestyle element—a la Ralph Lauren who has been a major influence in that area—always a part of the mix. He said he views his job as helping clients connect the dots between different elements of design: architecture, location, and lifestyle. “It boils down to me telling their story,” he explained.
Anderson admitted that early in his career he was “a people pleaser,” but now he understands that his role is to “understand the essence of the client and express that through the space.” His process, he said, “is finding ways to create an environment that has those references, but in a nuanced way.”
Asked if he’s ever had to talk a client down from an idea, Smith Boyd said his solution is a subtle one. “I introduce my ideas as alternatives to their ideas,” he explained. Discussion ensues and “before long the client ends up seeing the alternative as being their idea.”
Advice for Emerging Designers
To conclude the session, Hanley asked each NKBA Design Council member what advice they would offer those just starting their design careers.
“We all imagine design is about artistry,” replied Kemble, “but it’s more about communication.” She also recommended that designers be proactive in the industry and know their sourcing.
Filicia pointed to the different approaches of younger designers, who are more apt to eagerly embrace new technologies, and established designers, who may be more set in their ways but who also have the benefit of actual practical experience. “Collaboration can create a lot of understanding,” he said. “Both sides need to respect the power of the thing they are overlooking.”
Anderson, who noted that he is hopeful about the design industry, said he would suggest that designers “infuse purpose into their work to create something that’s both purposeful and beautiful,” whether that’s using healthy materials, creating a collaboration model, or focusing on equity.
LIXIL Launches Water Experience Center: Plumbing and housing products giant LIXIL has opened a Water Experience Center in New York’s Flatiron District. The 10,000-square-foot space showcases kitchen and bath solutions from LIXIL’s brands—American Standard, GROHE, DXV, INAX, and Basco—and offers an immersive experience for architects, designers and consumers. The interactive space demonstrates products in engaging vignettes, including an operational shower room synced to a custom music playlist and a live kitchen area with fully functioning faucets, allowing guests to experience how various spray settings impact everyday tasks. It also includes spaces for events, training sessions and other gatherings. Learn more here.
Miele Expands Induction Ranges: Premium German appliance maker Miele introduced a new range size to its induction range collection at an exclusive event during KBIS 2025. The new 36-inch ranges include a larger capacity for baking and roasting, more efficient cooking technology, two PowerFlex Zones and one large round induction zone for flexible cooking options. The Miele HR 1432-3I with EasyControl Induction Range also includes self-cleaning, soft-open and soft-close noise and vibration absorption and TwinPower boosters for faster, even heating. The Miele HR 1632-3I with M Touch delivers additional features including Moisture Plis humidity control, a wireless precision probe, proofing and crisping functions and more. The new ranges will be available in June. Learn more here.
Evan Cohen Honored by NSI: Evan Cohen, owner of Quality Marble & Granite in Ontario, CA, and an NKBA Global Connect Advisor, has been honored with the 2024 David Fell Spirit of Service Award by the Natural Stone Institute. Cohen was recognized for his work with the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program, which builds mortgage-free specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded defenders, veterans, first responders, and others in need. NSI Members like Cohen provide natural stone materials, fabrication and installation for R.I.S.E. homes. Learn more here.
A New Name for Ferguson: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery introduced its new name at KBIS 2025, and will now operate as Ferguson Home. The entity also includes Build.com, which will remain active for six months until the transition to FergusonHome.com is complete. Ferguson Home includes more than 250 showrooms and over 1,200 product experts. All store signage, marketing materials, social media, and visuals will reflect the new logo and name. KBB has more.
Courtesy of Sauder.
Sauder Expands Cabinetry Collections: Sauder, a furniture maker based in Archbold, OH, has expanded its Sauder Cabinetry division with new kitchen and bath cabinetry collections. The cabinetry division included the original Forerunner line and the new Evolve collection. Both lines are all frameless with full access and full overlay styling. They are produced at Sauder’s Ohio facility and are KCMA Certified for durability and environmental stewardship, reflecting a continued commitment to preservation and conservation. Other features include half-inch drawer bottoms, undermount slides and dovetail construction, and come fully assembled and ready to install. More info here.
Chapter News
Nebraska/Kansas Hosts Virtual KBIS Recap: The Nebraska/Kansas Chapter will host a CEU-eligible virtual meeting to recap the biggest trends of KBIS 2025 om March 27 at 12 noon (Central Time). Panelists include Alena Capra, CMKBD, owner and principal designer of Alena Capra Designs; Kerrie Kelly, CEO/Creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studio and Vice Chair of the NKBA Board of Directors, and Rose Dostal, owner and principal designer of RMD Designs. Register and get the link here.
Going Glam in Ontario: The Ontario Chapter will host its 21st annual Red Carpet Glam: 2025 Design Awards Gala on March 29 at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex, The Centennial Room, 25 British Columbia Road, Exhibition Place in Toronto. Cocktails start at 5:30 PM followed by a three-course dinner and awards, with entertainment and dancing. Individual tickets are $275 for NKBA members, $325 for non-members, with table discounts available. More info here.
Top Tips from Olympic-West Sound: Want to gain an edge in your design competition entry? Join the Olympic-West Sound Chapter for “Insider Tips to a Winning Design Entry” on April 10, 5:30 to 8 PM. These strategies will give you a boost for any design competition, including the NKBA professional design competition, opening soon. More detail here.
Map Your Future in Central Florida: Join the Central Florida Chapter’s April meeting on April 10, 6 to 8 PM, at Pinellas Technical College, 6100 154th Avenue North in Clearwater, for “Ignite Your Future.” This is a free event and features a one-on-one with Kristin Tabor, owner, founder, and principal designer of Tabor Design in Tampa Bay and NKBA Thirty Under 30 Class of 2024. More info here.
Industry News
New and Existing Home Sales Fall in January: Sales of new single-family homes dropped 10.5 percent in January from December, and were off 1.1 percent from January 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. More detail here.
Meanwhile, existing-home sales slid 4.9 percent in January from December, according to the National Association of Realtors. Despite the drop, year-over-year sales rose 2 percent, marking the fourth straight monthly YOY increase. Houses took longer to sell, staying on the market for 41 days on average in January compared to 35 days in December and 36 days in January 2024, said NAR. More info here.
Get the latest NKBA member news, products and events.
April 2025
Chapter Officer Update
Thank you to our Partners:
“Welcome Spring and NKBA Sustainability Month! This month, we have several sustainability-focused Design + Business Webinars and an NKBA ‘Sustainability’ Specialty Badge discount offer for our members…“
NKBA’s Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub was all the buzz at KBIS 2025. In case you missed it at Leader 2 Leader or in the NKBA Booth, NKBA’s research team introduced Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub, an exclusive online research community for industry professionals like you. As a Chapter Officer, we always look to you for leadership by example and engagement!
The Pro Hub offers you these benefits:
Connect with Peers: Network with other members and NKBA’s research team.
Share Insights: Provide expert feedback on industry content.
Please do not share this link, as access is by invitation only.
For questions, contact NKBA’s research team at marketresearch@nkba.org or reach out for registration issues at moderator@hub.nkba.org. Don’t miss out on this opportunity! We look forward to your involvement.
Marketing
VFTI sessions are now available on demand. Click here to register.
NKBA presents the following Design + Business Webinars in April with registration links below. Webinars begin at 12 PM ET with 0.1 CEU per webinar.
At this year’s Design + Industry Awards at KBIS, NKBA honored its first-ever Educator of the Year, Robin Rigby Fisher, CMKBD. A full-time faculty member at Portland Community College/Sylvania Campus in Portland, OR, Robin is also the Principal Designer at Robin Rigby Fisher Design. To learn more about Robin’s contributions as an educator and her remarkable achievement, click here.
Students are encouraged to apply for the annual NKBA | KBIS Ellen Cheever Award. This exclusive award package includes complimentary access to one of our NKBA Specialty Badge programs, a free copy of the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines, and free access to our Knowledge Base information platform. Students are invited to apply via this link through May 16, 2025.
Siobhan Elyse, Home Depot, Floor Plans & Specifications, Susquehanna Valley
Ryan Howe, Home Depot, Color, Tennessee
Yulia Ferguson, Home Depot, Cabinetry, Oklahoma
Member Relations
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.
Please reach out to Gerri Klein (gklein@nkba.org) with any NKBA membership structure questions.
Please encourage your members to communicate any changes directly to info@nkba.org and the team will be happy to help!
NKBA’s Member Relations team is always available to assist our Members and Chapters. Contact Gerri Klein, Sr Manager, Member Relations at 610-988-6030 or email info@nkba.org. Also part of the Member Relations team are: Kevin and Aislinn who look forward to working with our Chapters!
Elizabeth Mace, 610-988-6029 Chapter Engagement Specialist – emace@nkba.org
Gerri Klein, 610-871-8181 x104 Sr. Mgr Member Relations and Chapters
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 .
April 2025
Message from the Chapters Team
Dear Chapter Officers,
Welcome Spring and NKBA Sustainability Month! This month, we have several sustainability-focused Design + Business Webinars and an NKBA “Sustainability” Specialty Badge discount offer ($99 in the month of April) for our members. Please click here or email badge@nkba.org to take advantage of this month’s special badge discount.
In addition to our April Design + Business Webinars, be sure to check out VFTI On Demand. Catch up on the great VFTI speakers and programs that you wanted to see while at KBIS, and earn CEUs by watching our webinars.
Coming up: VFTI 2026 invitation for speakers and submissions! Applications will be available later this month and will be open May 1 through June 30, 2025. VFTI program speakers will be notified by August 31, 2025 for VFTI at KBIS 2026, to be held in Orlando, February 17-19, 2026.
NKBA + Fabuwood are excited to invite our designer members to apply for the exclusive 2025-2026 Certified Designer Grant Program, sponsored by Fabuwood. Twenty designers will be selected to earn CKBD certification. Applications are open now through May 31, 2025. Thank you again to our NKBA Chapters Platinum Sponsor Fabuwood for supporting NKBA K&B designers and making goals a reality!
Exciting Chapter collaborations are going on! Cheers again to Big Sky and Mountain States Chapters for an incredible three days in Boise last week! Kudos to Big Sky Chapter Communications Chair Scott Abel and both Chapter councils for creating and presenting this multi-chapter event. It was our honor to be there!
Coming up this month, don’t miss the Florida Chapters as they meet up in Orlando, April 29-May 2 at the Coverings trade show. Way to go, Central Florida; South Florida; Florida Treasure Coast; North Florida and other NKBA Chapters and members for celebrating design, spreading the K&B word, and welcoming new prospective NKBA members through your booth at the show!
With one more look back to KBIS and Leader2Leader, check out our NKBA Susquehanna ValleyChapter Officers who were shown on the big screen sans proper title, and our NKBA “Year in Review” video and NKBA “State of the Association” update. We can’t wait to see what the coming months will bring to our Chapters and to NKBA!
The National Kitchen and Bath Association is now accepting applications for the prestigious Ellen Cheever Award. This award provides invaluable resources and opportunities to aspiring kitchen and bath professionals who are current NKBA student members.
What is the Ellen Cheever Award?
The Ellen Cheever Award supports students in the kitchen and bath industry by providing essential NKBA resources and a chance to earn an NKBA Specialty Badge credential at no cost. The award package includes a one-year NKBA Knowledge Base subscription, a spiral-bound copy of the NKBA Kitchen & Bathroom Planning Guidelines (4th edition) with free shipping in the US and Canada, and complimentary access to earn one NKBA Specialty Badge credential.
Who Was Ellen Cheever?
Ellen Cheever, CMKBD, ASID, CAPS, CLIPP, was a highly influential figure in the kitchen and bath industry for nearly 50 years. A dedicated NKBA member, she was renowned as a designer, author, educator, and researcher. The NKBA honors her memory with this award, which helps students access the resources she valued.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must be NKBA student members with at least one semester remaining until graduation. The application requires completing an online form, submitting an essay, and answering required questions. The deadline to apply is May 14, 2025. Award winners may be featured in NKBA marketing materials.
Why Apply?
The Ellen Cheever Award provides valuable resources that are often required for coursework in kitchen and bath programs. The award helps students gain access to these resources free of charge, enhancing their education and professional development. Recipients also have the opportunity to earn an NKBA Specialty Badge, further boosting their credentials and career prospects.
Past Recipients and Their Experiences
Last year’s recipients have highlighted the award’s impact on their careers. Kayden Smith sees the pursuit of NKBA Certification and badges as an ideal next step in the achievement of professional goals. “Pursuing NKBA certifications and badges aligns seamlessly with my academic and career goals,” Smith says. “These credentials will not only validate my expertise, but also provide me with access to a network of industry professionals and resources that will facilitate my professional growth and advancement.”
Participation in student activities, such as NKBA Student Chapters, is another way that students can enhance their professional growth. Campus involvement has played an important role in Madeleine Clune’s academic career as a Residential Environment & Design major. “On campus I am currently involved in two organizations related to my major. The first is the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences Ambassador Program. I get to talk to prospective RED students and students who have been accepted into the RED department” said Clune. “The second organization I am involved in is Home Design at Virginia Tech (HDVT). I joined last fall and this coming fall I will be the President. Through this club I attended KBIS as well.”
As members of NKBA, students are encouraged to get involved with their local, professional chapter. Fanny Cartujano took this involvement one step further by innovating a new chapter program as a Student Representative for the NKBA|KBIS Georgia Chapter. “As a Student Representative, I took the initiative to create and manage the NKBA Student Shadowing program for our Georgia Chapter” said Cartuano. “This program, which allowed students to shadow a Kitchen and Bath Design professional for a day to a week, was a testament to my commitment to fostering a stronger, more knowledgeable kitchen and bath industry community.”
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
The Ellen Cheever Award is a fantastic opportunity for NKBA student members to gain valuable resources, enhance their credentials, and connect with the kitchen and bath industry. Students are encouraged to apply by the May 14, 2025 deadline.
For more information about NKBA | KBIS Affiliated Schools and student resources, visit https://nkba.org/learning/ or contact Kelly Ann Ryan, Learning Programs Manager, at kryan@nkba.org.
“Sparking joy” was at the heart of a panel discussion called Selective Luxury: The Art of Intentional Design that jump-started NEXTStage programming on Feb. 26 at KBIS 2025 and explored how designers work with clients to create bespoke spaces that express personal style. Attendees were welcomed by author and design journalist Sophie Donelson — the Day 2 host at NEXTStage, which is sponsored by Ferguson Home — who introduced Amber Peterson, Design Manager for Ferguson Home and one of the session’s three panelists.
Peterson was joined onstage by Taniya Nayak, Founder of Boston-based Taniya Nayak Design Inc. and a designer/host on several HGTV, Food Network and ABC shows, and the panel’s moderator, Andrea Lillo, Executive Editor of Designers Today and the panel’s moderator.
Defining intentional luxury
Lillo kicked off the session by asking the panel “How do you define selective luxury?” Nayak jumped right in, noting that she herself wasn’t certain what it meant, so she asked her design team and they, too, were stumped. So she then asked them, “What is luxury to you?” quickly realizing that the answers ranged from “a vacation on a yacht” to a space that’s “simple, quiet, and peaceful.” Translation: Luxury means different things to different people.
“As a designer, you have to listen to the client about what luxury means to them,” she said, adding that it’s then possible to add “layers of selective luxury to customize a design and create a tasteful, bespoke space just for them.”
Peterson concurred, noting that “luxury is in the details” and that Ferguson Home “caters to those looking to tailor a space to their needs.”
Talking about customization, Nayak pointed to the varying moods of the rooms she designed for a New York client with a 1,000-square-foot apartment overlooking Central Park, which were being shown on the screen. While the living space was colorful, bold, and modern and the bathroom featured dramatically veined marble, the clients requested that the bedroom be a neutral, quiet retreat. “Customization is so important and we can do that with artwork, custom wallpaper, and other details,” she said, noting that the rise of custom wall coverings allows designers to create truly unique spaces for their clients.
Other customization buzzwords
Peterson also addressed another aspect of customization: comfort. “We’re seeing a push for comfort that is personal and elevated,” she said. This goes hand in hand with a wellness-at- home trend that has clients requesting spa-like amenities designed to soothe and relax in comfort and privacy.
Nayak also pointed to the trend of “color drenching” in which a space’s design focuses on a single color from floor to ceiling. She’s also seeing demand for it in kitchens, where appliances are now available in a a variety of colosr. “I think people are accepting that when it comes to design, they can go big,” she said. “It’s all about what sparks joy — if it does that it’s luxury.”
How to get clients to express what luxury means to them
Nayak suggested that after first asking clients about their needs relevant to their everyday life at home to then ask them “what they dream about, where was their best vacation, and what is their favorite restaurant.” She said she even opens their closets and looks at their clothes to get a sense of their personal style. “Then, as designers, we get to exaggerate that a little more,” she said, adding that being able to do that is all a matter of having the client trust you. “You know you have the right client when they really trust you,” she said.
Storytelling through design
Both Nayak and Peterson said they see storytelling as integral to selective luxury. Nayak recalled a client who inherited her mother’s condo and wanted to incorporate her love of reading into the design — so the living room features a focal-point built-in bookshelves with an artistic selection of books and other objects. “The space doesn’t let go of the soul,” she explained of designs with a story behind them.
Peterson also pointed out that manufacturers often tell her that having a story to tell helps sell a product.
Asked to impart advice to designers who are relatively new to the kitchen-and-bath sector and are looking to embrace selective luxury, Nayak had a suggestion. Rather than looking to showcase their talents by pushing their own personal design style, designers should truly listen to what their clients want and need. “Then give a little, take a little, and build that trust,” she said.
What does luxury mean to you?
The session concluded with Nayak asking members of the audience to say what luxury means to them. Answers included “comfort and security,” “a place to come home to unwind…a sanctuary,” “the place I want to be,” and “being authentic to yourself and the space rather than going with a trend or modernizing just to modernize.”
Nayak then returned to the role customization, from personalized wall coverings to playing with color, has in creating a sense of selective luxury. “We now live in a world where we can do anything we want to.”
As part of the JENNAIR-sponsored technology track at KBIS 2025’s NEXTStage, the chief executives of two key organizations in the kitchen-and-bath and home building and renovation space sat down for a chat called CEO Perspectives—Designing New Synergies in Smart Home Design. The goal was to take a look at ongoing and proposed initiatives to connect designers and integrators in the process of choosing and installing smart home technology.
Following an introduction by Anthony Pastrick, Senior Brand Manager for JENNAIR, Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO of NKBA | KBIS, was joined by Daryl Friedman, Global President & CEO of CEDIA, the Association for Smart Home Professionals, to delve into the synergy between residential design and smart home technology. The goal: Offering actionable insights for those in attendance and sparking further ideas for collaboration between the two organizations. The session was moderated by Crystal Watts, Director of Marketing at NKBA | KBIS, who has previously held positions in the smart-technology industry.
A smart-technology convergence
Watts kicked off the session by asking Darcy and Friedman to discuss how kitchen-and-bath design and smart home technology are converging. “There’s a lot of technology around this show,” Darcy observed, noting that when the NKBA talks to consumers about what they want in their home they’re really excited about the future of smart technology.
Friedman noted that “smart home installers and designers are figuring out the best ways to integrate technology into the home.” Darcy then added that homeowners want the technology to be invisible—to not interrupt the look and design of their home—so it’s important for tech brands to demonstrate how these products have evolved.
Darcy also acknowledged that NKBA is looking to acquire knowledge it can impart to its members, noting that millennial homebuyers know about smart technology and “our collaboration with CEDIA is vital to that learning process.”
Friedman asserted that the opportunity for designers “is a happier client…because when consumers find out about technology, they want it.” At the same time, countered Darcy, because things in the smart-home realm are advancing so quickly, consumers are also questioning whether they should invest in what is currently available and take a risk that it won’t change. “The key for consumers,” he said, “is to be informed about what is about to be revolutionized.”
The need to develop a trust level between integrators and designers
That’s where trust comes in—with integrators and manufacturers’ expertise shared with designers who can pass that along to their clients. “Designers and integrators need to have a trust level,” Friedman explained. “Often the two sides don’t know each other and we need to get these two to talk to each other.”
Darcy also noted that it’s also vital to balance what is most important to the consumer with information about the costs of various smart technologies and what is available.
This is where certification can come into play. Friedman noted that CEDIA offers various certification programs in integrating smart technology, leading Darcy to acknowledge that NKBA “needs to find a better way to use CEDIA’s resources — maybe a badge, a curriculum for learning.” He asked, “How can NKBA and CEDIA members collaborate more closely?”
He then suggested that NKBA members find a local smart-technology mentor and build a relationship. “Bring a CEDIA member to an NKBA chapter meeting,” he said.
Friedman added that the idea of having a badge or credential that can be earned would definitely “build synergy” between the two organizations’ members.
What does the future hold?
Looking to the future, Friedman said that there are so many technologies for the home that go beyond the kitchen and bath, especially when it comes to lighting.
Darcy added that two major trends—sustainability and wellness—factor into the smart home equation as well. He used shade control for keeping homes cool and saving energy as “helping to solve the problem of how to establish a healthy space.”
When it was the audience’s turn to ask a question, the first one was about how designers can learn more about smart home technology. Friedman replied that there are several ways: Attending CEDIA Expo in Denver in September and going to CEDIA.org to check out new content and continuing education opportunities for designers. The website also has a list of integrators that is searchable by zip code.
Concluded Darcy, “Designers need to go into this thinking ‘I need to know about this’.”
Friedman’s parting words were: “My advice is to bring an integrator in early in the project.”
Other suggestions from both the panel and audience:
For the first time ever, NKBA is releasing two of its most popular research reports at the same time. The 2025 Kitchen & Bath Market Outlook report and the Q4 2024 Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report will both be released this week. Visit nkba.org/research on February 5 for both reports.
The annual Kitchen & Bath Market Outlook estimates the size of the U.S. residential K&B market and provides a forecast for 2025. The Q4 KBMI tracks current demand, near-term expectations, and industry challenges across these four key segments: Design; Building and Remodeling; Manufacturing; and Retail. Together, these two reports offer a comprehensive analysis of the K&B market in the U.S.
In case you missed it, the NKBA’s Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub launched last week! Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub is an exclusive online research community for industry professionals like you. As a Chapter Officer, we always look to you for leadership by example and engagement! We will also be adding a link to the Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub in your chapter event invite to give you another way to connect with industry professionals in your area.
The Pro Hub offers you these benefits:
Connect with Peers: Network with other members and NKBA’s research team.
Share Insights: Provide expert feedback on industry content.
For questions, contact NKBA’s research team at marketresearch@nkba.org or reach out for registration issues at moderator@hub.nkba.org. Don’t miss out on this opportunity! We look forward to your involvement.
Marketing
NKBA presents the following Design + Business Webinarsin February with registration links below. Webinars begin at 12 PM ET with 0.1 CEU per webinar.
Students and educators are invited to enjoy a selection of coffee and refreshments while participating in a valuable educational experience. Invitations will be emailed to all student and educator KBIS registrants this month.
Spread the word to your students and educators! The Student Design Symposium is a virtual, interactive event hosted by the NKBA Northern California Chapter. For just $15, students can register for this dynamic conference, which will feature a keynote speaker address by Nureed Saeed, 2023 KBB Person of the Year. The event will also include breakout sessions, networking, prizes and more. Educators can register for free, email kryan@nkba.org for a promo code and more information.
Carol Peterson, Arizona Designs Kitchens & Baths, Floor Plans & Specifications, Arizona South
Member Relations
New Membersare vital to the success of NKBA and our Chapters. Please send prospective members to noelle@nkba.org and we will send detailed information on member benefits, membership cost, certification, badges and more.
Please reach out to Gerri Klein (gklein@nkba.org) with any NKBA membership structure questions.
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.
Please encourage your members to communicate any changes directly to info@nkba.org and the team will be happy to help!
NKBA’s Member Relations team is always available to assist our Members and Chapters. Contact Gerri Klein, Sr Manager, Member Relations at 610-988-6030 or email info@nkba.org. Also part of the Member Relations team are: Kevin and Aislinn who look forward to working with our Chapters!
Bill Darcy (L) and Marc Gilbert (R). Image courtesy of PWP Studio.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Marc Gilbert, Managing Director & Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group, at this year’s NKBA Executive Forum at KBIS. The session was titled “10 Forces Driving the Global Business Landscape in 2025.”
Given the tremendous uncertainty around changing federal policies at home and extremely fluid global political and economic dynamics, Marc’s insights provided much-needed perspective.
Here are some of the key take-aways from our conversation that I believe are most relevant to our NKBA I KBIS members:
The Impact of Tariffs
A core element of the new administration’s “America First” approach relates to trade policy. The expansion of tariffs, most prominently with our top trade partners in Mexico, Canada and China, has both economic and statecraft goals. Marc believes that, despite the new tariffs, trade between and among the U.S., Mexico and Canada will remain strong, even as trade between China and the West slows while that nation pivots to address its own economic and demographic challenges.
Evolving Global Conflict
Geopolitics are dominated by a range of complex global conflicts with changing dynamics. Marc believes that “conflict has transformed into a multidimensional source of risk.” Conflicts are taking unprecedented forms – some made possible by emerging technologies – and in unprecedented places, from the Arctic Circle to Earth’s orbit and even the moon. He also highlighted how the growing number of economic sanctions has made doing business increasingly complex in more and more countries.
Climate “Refuses to be Ignored”
Marc told the gathered C-suite executives that while the U.S. may be de-prioritizing climate policy and investment, the global trend toward the pursuit of clean energy is unlikely to be significantly impacted. In short, investment in clean energy is still flowing, with China and the European Union continuing to lead the way. He noted, as our own research has indicated, that American consumers are less likely than those in countries like Germany to be willing to spend more on “green” products and services.
How Companies Can Prepare
Marc offered several key insights about how companies can prepare to meet these challenges, and better protect themselves. For example, he recommends that companies invest in supply chain resilience and focus on identifying investment and growth opportunities. He also highlighted the benefits of structuring companies with differentiations that can be protective in our increasingly fragmented world. Finally, he stressed the importance of understanding and identifying risks – and opportunities – associated with quickly-evolving technology and the “AI Race.”
There is, without a doubt, a lot of uncertainty in our world right now. Some of it seems daunting, but I share Marc’s view that there is also plenty of opportunity to be seized. Now, more than ever, it’s important to stay informed so that you can make the best possible decisions for your K&B business and its future.
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NKBA | KBIS
Students and Educators: Discover What’s New
NKBA | KBIS recognizes the invaluable role that education plays in shaping the future of kitchen and bath professionals. In this collection of our latest news and opportunities, discover how NKBA | KBIS is paving the way for the next generation of industry leaders.
Join us as we sit down with Robin Rigby Fisher, CMKBD, who was honored as the 2024 Educator of the Year at KBIS 2025.
Charting Your Career Path
Jodi Tramontin is an NKBA Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) with over 30 years of experience in interior design and the kitchen and bath industry. In her presentation, Jodi shares her career journey and discusses the unexpected changes she encountered along the way.
College & Career Tips from the NKBA | KBIS Thirty Under 30
Three members of the NKBA | KBIS Thirty Under 30 reflect on their college experiences and offer advice perfect for students and educators alike.
NKBA | KBIS Student Design Competition
The 2025 – 2026 Student Design Competition is now open through June 7, 2026.
Making the right Moves Online: Using Social Media for Career Growth
As students prepare to enter the job market and educators support their journey, discover how to effectively leverage social media for professional development.
