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Five Questions with Andrea Melkowski, CKBD

This design coordinator talks about her career, the challenges of earning her CKBD, and the perseverance that got her there.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Andrea Melkowski, CKBD, is proof that you can study for NKBA certification just about anywhere, at any time. A design coordinator with Lombardo Homes of St. Louis, a semi-custom builder in the O’Fallon, MO, area, she is also a hunter, and during downtime in the woods, often perched in a tree stand, she’d be on her phone studying for the exam.

She credits her dad for giving her career direction. “My interest in interior design began in high school, when I took an “Intro to Interior Design” class, which touched on color schemes and space planning. I’d always had a love for art and rearranging the furniture, and this class brought all those things from hobbies to an occupation. My father recognized the passion that I had and encouraged me to follow that interest. I received my Bachelor’s degree in interior design with a minor in architecture from Southeast Missouri State University in 2014 and have been designing ever since.”

She has been in the business for about 11 years and currently works in the architecture department at Lombardo. “From plan origination, review, and permitting to cabinet layouts and more, it’s great to be a part of the entire building process, to see how all the parts and pieces really work, and how to keep the wheels turning,” she said.

She started her career with an internship as a K&B designer at Buchheit, a local farm/lumber store, and then went full-time until joining Lombardo in early 2020. “I was with Lombardo, in a completely new role, for a couple of weeks when COVID-19 shut everything down and sent us all to work from home,” she recalled. “It was interesting, to say the least, and a huge learning curve to get more involved in the whole home process compared to the small niche of only kitchens and baths that I was used to. Almost five years later, I’ve taken on more responsibilities and I’m still learning every day.”

Melkowski talked about her drive to keep learning and aiming for certification.

What was your primary reason for pursuing your NKBA certification?

My primary reason to pursue the CKBD was to continue my education and broaden my horizons. I’ve always been eager to learn new things, especially anything that affects me every day. I actually began this entire process looking into receiving the NCIDQ certification. While discussing with one of my best friends from college, she asked if I had looked into receiving my CKBD instead. Knowing that we participated in the NKBA Student program and that I had been in the field since college, she suggested the NKBA certification would be a great first step.

Talk about the process… Would you do it again?

This process wasn’t easy, that’s for sure. I hadn’t spent a lot of dedicated study time on anything since graduating from college 10 years ago. It’s crazy how it seemed I had so much time back then compared to now. On multiple occasions, I fell asleep with my laptop or phone in hand while reading through the study materials! The most convenient part of it all was that I was studying for the exam portion during Missouri’s early bow season, which gave me a lot of down time. Much of my study time was accomplished on my phone while in a tree stand or blind, waiting for a big buck to stroll by.

It’s hard to say if I would do this again. It would definitely depend on where I am in life, and the time I had available to dedicate to it. I pursued this certification on my own account, not through my already 55+ hour job, so I sacrificed a lot of my usual time with friends and family that might not be possible if I was in a different place in life.

What was the most challenging part of the process?

The most challenging part of this process was understanding the requirements of and developing the portfolio to meet the NKBA standards. While I am involved in many aspects of the home and create detailed plans every day, my company doesn’t utilize the NKBA format. The software that I use in my daily kitchen and bath process does not offer the right tools and format that would qualify for the portfolio, so not only was I learning the NKBA way, but I was also learning a new CAD software, which was a huge obstacle for me. Luckily, I had help from a coworker who is a true AutoCAD wiz, and she stayed on call for my late nights and weekends throughout the entire process. Without her, I truly would not have made it through the portfolio portion of this certification.

What are some benefits of becoming certified?

I pursued the CKBD as a personal goal. I hope to get more involved in the local NKBA Chapter events, begin networking, and continue to learn all that I can about this industry, and hopefully this new achievement paves a great path for my career’s future. Right now, I am applying what I’ve learned in this process to my day-to-day designs. I hope to integrate more of the NKBA guidelines into our standard design practices to offer more universal spaces to our current clients.

What advice would you give designers who are considering certification?

My best advice for a designer studying for certification would be to research as much as you can about the process prior to submitting the application. Be prepared with the required documentation, photos at different stages of the build, for projects … I think the most difficult timeframe for me was the portfolio deadline right after the test. I had focused solely on preparing for the test, and when I got to the portfolio section, I did not have all of the documentation required. While we do have photos and paperwork on past and present projects, we did not have the necessary specifics. It was tough to find spaces that met the requirements along with a timeline that would allow for rough plumbing and electric photos and finish photos all prior to submission. Reach out to the NKBA team, ask questions, and understand as much as you can before submitting the application. This will only set you up for success.

NKBA currently offers two levels of certification: The first is the CKBD (Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer), and the highest level is CMKBD (Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer). These prestigious appellations communicate expert knowledge, skills, training, and experience in kitchen and bath design. They help distinguish you as a professional and give you a competitive edge. To learn more about the Certification programs, click here.

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5 Questions With… Lyndsey Seddon, CKBD

This self-taught young designer was motivated to learn as much as possible about the kitchen-and-bath industry, making a commitment to NKBA programs that earned her CKBD certification and Thirty Under 30 honors as she grew her Rhode Island-based interior design business.

By Donna Heiderstadt

In 2021, just three short years after making the jump from studying nursing to designing kitchens and bathrooms, Lyndsey Seddon founded her own design firm and showroom, Seddon Design Co., in Pascoag, RI. Having grown up surrounded by new builds and renovations — her family is in the construction business — she immediately took calculated steps to develop her design, project management and self-taught CAD skills while simultaneously achieving NKBA’s Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer (CKBD) certification.

Since founding her design firm, Lyndsey has served as the lead designer and specifier for new homes in a multimillion dollar residential development, completed numerous remodeling jobs and taken on larger commercial design projects. Lyndsey has also juggled her career launch with motherhood, as she and her husband, Devan, welcomed their son, Boden, in April 2022.

Lyndsey’s current favorite project is a master bathroom she recently completed for a client in Providence, RI, that required the complete gutting of the bathroom in a third-story residence — a challenging project because the 15-18 inches of concrete between each unit required incredibly precise saw-cutting to redirect the plumbing. “Everything was upgraded, from a high-tech toilet to Kohler’s new Statement and Anthem collection in the shower,” she says. “The client now has a modern, walk-in curbless shower, with tiles that are 36×72 in size across the entire floor. This project stands out to me for both the technical challenges and the beautiful, modern results.”

We asked Lyndsey to offer insights into how her involvement with NKBA — in addition to achieving CKBD certification, she was also named a member of the Thirty Under 30 Class of 2024 — has helped her establish credibility and grow her business.

What inspired you to achieve CKBD certification from the NKBA so early in your design career?

When I switched career paths from nursing to design, I promised myself I would immerse myself fully in this field. I discovered the CKBD certification as an opportunity to learn as much as possible. The study guides and flashcards were great tools for learning and refreshing my knowledge, and they helped me identify areas where I could grow. Achieving my CKBD certification is something I’m incredibly proud of, and it feels like a major milestone in my career.

How has CKBD certification helped you in developing your design business? What advice do you have for other young designers considering certification?

The design world is vast, and consumers appreciate seeing that you’re involved and knowledgeable. Since I’m self-taught, gaining the CKBD certification has been invaluable. It’s a fantastic resource, and I believe it gave me credibility in a field where I didn’t have formal education. My advice for young designers is to go for it. Certification helps you grow your knowledge, and clients see it as a mark of professionalism.

How has your business and homeowner requests for kitchen and bath projects changed since you founded your design company in 2021?

Since starting my business post-COVID, I’ve noticed a shift in what homeowners are requesting for their kitchen and bath projects. Clients are spending more time thinking about how their homes serve them after being inside so much. Many now emphasize wanting their homes, particularly their kitchens, to feel welcoming and functional. There’s a focus on organic, clean and elegant designs that can stand the test of time.

I’ve also had to adapt my style to fit the diverse range of projects I’ve taken on between SDC and House of LT with co-founder Talia Formicola, from colorful beach investment properties and new builds in Narragansett to old-charm homes in Newport, to finishing entire logo cabin homes in the woods. Each project has pushed me to evolve my approach based on both the environment and what each client truly needs.

My business has come a long way since I first started. What began with smaller-scale flip homes has grown into managing multi-million-dollar projects, working on historic properties, and fully furnishing homes. It’s been an exciting journey of growth and change!

What do you enjoy most about your job, and what are currently the biggest challenges?

What I enjoy most about my job is the final reveal — seeing the clients’ reactions when they first experience their new space. It’s incredibly rewarding, especially knowing how much they’ve invested emotionally and financially. The best part is when they send me photos of family gatherings in their redesigned space months later; that’s when I know the work truly made an impact.

Currently, my biggest challenge is time management. We’re finally looking to hire someone new at the firm, but it’s proving to be tough in today’s market. Balancing being a mom and running my own business is a constant challenge, and I’m learning that it’s okay to have dedicated family time and to prioritize work when needed. Finding that balance is key.

What message would you like to send to other young designers about joining the NKBA, attending KBIS and applying to programs like Thirty Under 30?

My message to young designers is simple: network, network, network! I wish I had started doing this earlier in my career. Through the NKBA, I’ve built connections all over the country, and even abroad. These relationships allow us to bounce ideas off each other, share product recommendations and support each other through the challenges of the industry.

Being part of NKBA’s Thirty Under 30 has been a special achievement — something I promised my younger self I would reach. I highly encourage young designers to get involved in the NKBA, attend KBIS and apply to programs like Thirty Under 30. It’s incredibly rewarding, so never give up and always strive for growth!

September 2024

Message from the Chapters Team

Dear Chapter Officers,

It’s back-to-school season, and we’re in the education mindset! Be sure to check out the newest NKBA Appliance Badge from the Certification/Learning department, and stay tuned for details on Education Appreciation Week, a new NKBA initiative running at the end of this month, September 23-27.

Exciting news with early KBIS 2025 registration kicking off this month. As returning Chapter Officers in 2025, you do not need to register early – you will receive a separate VIP registration link and important travel information from NKBA National. 

Your KBIS VIP invitation and information will be emailed to you upon receipt of your Chapter’s 2025 Elections Results form. Presidents and Secretary/Treasurers, please select Chapter Leadership Results (not Chapter Appointment) in the drop-down form. Thank you!

You’re invited to share your expertise with industry professionals through our NKBA | KBIS Design + Business Webinars. Our new season of Design + Business Webinars kicks off in January 2025. Explore the benefits of being a presenter, and click here to submit your webinar proposal by September 30. 

Ready to volunteer on a new level? Please consider a role in National Leadership through NKBA | KBIS, including Board of Directors; Chapter Leadership Committee; Leadership Recruitment Committee; or KBIS Exhibitor Committee. Nominations are open now and will be accepted through September 30 at 5 PM EST.

This month, NKBA caps off our anniversary celebrations with 60for60 on Monday, September 16. We look forward to sharing photos from the in-person ride/walk in Bethlehem, PA and from our Chapter members participating in other locations! 

Looking ahead to October, we hope to see you at our pop-up activation at High Point Fall Market, October 26-28. Please let us know via email chapters@nkba.org if you are traveling to High Point this year – we would love to see you there! 

Here’s to a fabulous fall – we look forward to spending this special season with all of you!

Best,

Kelly

Kelly Buchsbaum
Sr. Manager, Chapter Relations
kbuchsbaum@nkba.org

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Design Pros Explain How to Budget for – and Prioritize – Great Lighting

Practical Tips Featured in NKBA-KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design Report
Designed by Bahar Zaeem & Shima Radfar. Photographed by Ryan Fung.

By NKBA Editorial Staff  

Historically, lighting hasn’t been prioritized in the planning and budgeting of major kitchen and bath projects. But as the importance of lighting in residential design has become increasingly obvious, professionals are sharing advice about how to ensure lighting receives the attention and resources it deserves. These insights are featured in the first-ever NKBA-KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design report, a qualitative study on the topic of lighting in kitchen and bath design.

NKBA Design Competition Now Open — Enter Today!

Among the notable tips shared by 10 leading designers from across the country:

Advocate from the Onset

The design professionals say lighting should receive the same consideration as items like appliances, cabinetry and stone. They recommend, for example, allocating 10 percent to 15 percent of a kitchen renovation budget to lighting – even more for luxury design. This means advocating for its importance early in the planning process with homeowners, whose attention will likely be focused on other, traditionally-prioritized design elements.

Estimate to Avoid Surprises

Designers need to start estimating early in the budgeting and planning process, layering in lighting costs on the builder plans. Developing initial rough estimates can help set and manage client expectations from the start. It’s also important to account for obvious and not-so-obvious cost drivers. Among the most common budgeting issues: incomplete electrical plans, less experienced electricians and the failure to account for costly finishes.

Educate Clients and Demonstrate the Difference

Clients must be educated early on about the key role lighting plays in a project’s success. The pros recommend finding different ways to show clients how impactful good – and bad – lighting can be on the final product. For example, the designers have had clients view before and after project photos to illustrate how proper lighting can solve dark spots and other problems. They have also created design lighting lab experiences, such as taking a client’s favorite piece of art to view under different colors and temperatures.

Design for Value and Prioritize the Spend

When working up a lighting budget, save where possible and splurge where necessary. The surveyed design pros say that lighting in the kitchen, primary bath and powder room should be prioritized. Task lighting should take precedence over ambient lighting – and both are more important than decorative lighting. There are various ways to spend wisely, from using fewer, high quality recessed cans to opting for stock brands rather than custom lighting fixtures.

Expect and Manage Changes

Lighting changes are inevitable, according to these experienced design pros. They say it’s best to try to account for these “audibles” in the budgeting process ahead of time. Otherwise, last-minute decisions made by contractors or homeowners, like fixture swaps, made long after the lighting plan has been “locked in” can have significant consequences.

Build Partnerships

It’s important for designers to build partnerships with builders, architects and electricians. Joint walkthroughs are an effective way to ensure everyone is aligned on lighting design and execution. By working together, everyone can share ideas and knowledge that will produce the best results for a client.

For more useful insights about budgeting and other aspects of lighting in residential design, download and read the full NKBA/KBIS Lighting in Kitchen & Bath Design report here.

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Learning about Lighting

The  NKBA | KBIS Lighting Summit showcased education, a hands-on competition…and fun!
NKBA | KBIS Lighting Summit attendees at Lutron’s Global Experience Center in New York City.

For its first-ever Lighting Trends Summit last week, NKBA | KBIS partnered with Lutron to hold an educational and fun-filled event at the brand’s Global Experience Center in New York. 

The event kicked-off with a welcome by Melissa Andresko, Chief Corporate Brand Ambassador for Lutron, followed by the the debut of the association’s report on Lighting Trends in Kitchen & Bath, presented by Tricia Zach, Head of Research at NKBA. Then an in-depth presentation on “Unseen Luxury” was given by Cecilia Ramos, Senior Director of Architectural Markets at Lutron, followed by a panel discussion about “The Impact of Lighting in Design”, featuring Nathalie Faubert, Lighting Designer with Cline Bettridge Bernstein; Lauren Schulte, owner of Monarch Kitchen & Bath Studio; and Lutron’s David Weinstein, VP of Residential Sales.

NKBA Design Competition Now Open — Enter Today!

Attendees were also given a tour of the Lutron experience center, which showed them the different phases of light and how it could alter a space and the visual perception of a room. “Light can make a big impact in a room,” said Rob Laterza, Senior Manager of Lutron Experience Centers, who gave the tour. 

Afterwards attendees broke into groups to try their hand at the Lighting Design Challenge, which featured a chance to create a lighting plan for a fictional kitchen space owned by a multi-generational family. The groups had one hour, then handed over the final plan to the judges: Nathalie Faubert, Tony Monteleone of Monteleone Consulting, and Thomas Mnich, National Sales Manager and Lighting Designer at Lutron.

See below for the winning group with one of the judges, Thomas Mnich (far right). Lutron awarded each group member a Smart Dimmer Starter Kit.   

For more images from the Lighting Trends Summit, see below. 

All photos courtesy of Jeff Siegel | The Mad Photographer.

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Frigidaire Celebrates Eras 

The appliance brand held an event to celebrate decades of its designs.
Image courtesy of Frank Zayas Photography.

Frigidaire last week hosted NKBA | KBIS Carolinas Chapter members at its headquarters in Charlotte, NC, to celebrate its decades of innovative design. The “Eras Designer Tour” event showcased Frigidaire designs from 1910 to present day, giving attendees a glimpse into the brand’s legendary past. 

The event also included an interactive panel about sustainability featuring Susan Easley, Brand Communications & Consumer Insights at Electrolux; Anna Stowe, Owner of Great Design 4 U; and Julie Peach, Owner and lead designer of J.Peach Interiors. Moderated by NKBA | KBIS National Business Development Manager Stacey Piano, the panel was followed by hands-on cooking classes and product education with Chef Adam, cocktails and  giveaways for all attendees.

See the photos below for fun insights into the event. 

All photos courtesy of Frank Zayas Photography.

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Dacor Celebrates 60 Years of NKBA | KBIS

Dacor and NKBA | KBIS celebrated the association’s 60th anniversary in style at the Dacor Kitchen Theater at the Boardwalk in Irvine, CA.
Rona Graf and Joseph DeCasperis share insights and inspirations at the Dacor Kitchen Theater in Irvine.

By Elisa Fernández-Arias

Dacor and NKBA | KBIS celebrated the association’s 60th anniversary last month at Dacor Kitchen Theater in Irvine, CA, with an exclusive private event that included tastings, trends and giveaways. Veronica Navarro, Manager, Dacor Showrooms & Brand Activations, welcomed guests to the NKBA award-winning Dacor showroom at the Boardwalk in Irvine. 

The event also featured an engaging panel discussion on emerging kitchen trends with leading designers Rona Graf of Grace Blu Interior Design and Joseph DeCasperis of Joseph DeCasperis Design and The High End Kitchen & Home. DeCasperis also serves as President of NKBA’s Southern California Chapter.

The onsite NKBA | KBIS team shared an exclusive first look at the association’s first ever Sustainability Trends in Kitchen and Bath Design Report, presented by NKBA | KBIS’ Kelly Buchsbaum, Sr. Manager, Chapter Relations. Angela Rath, Senior Manager, Business Development at NKBA | KBIS, hosted a Q&A session with LaRon Doucet, Jr., Senior Manager, Dacor Education & Training. Capping off the event, lauded designers Rona Graf and Joseph DeCasperis shared their personal sustainability ideas and those inspired by KBIS. 

During the event, Dacor’s team highlighted their latest introductions that blend design, innovation and technology, partnering them with special culinary and cocktail creations by Dacor’s chef and a guest mixologist. Attendees included designers, specifiers and architects from NKBA | KBIS’ Southern California and San Diego Chapters. 

The photos below showcase the highlights of the event.

Attendees at the event, mingling, exploring Dacor products and enjoying signature cocktails and lite bites.
Southern California Chapter members Terri Brien (far left) and Carmen Ture (far right) explore Dacor’s latest innovations with SoCal Membership Chair Cris Roberto, CKD, and Communications Chair Felicia Hartson.
NKBA | KBIS’ Angela Rath interviews Dacor’s LaRon Doucet, Jr. with questions from attending kitchen designers.
NKBA | KBIS San Diego Chapter members Madelene Ross and Kim Melchior enjoy the latest product introductions from Dacor.
The event welcome table features Golden Eagle boutique vodka for signature cocktails and giveaway glasses for all guests, compliments of Dacor.
The Dacor Kitchen Theater in Irvine proudly displays its NKBA | KBIS Innovative Showroom Award for Best Large Showroom presented at KBIS 2023.
Caption: A chef prepares flavorful food for the event and demonstrates Dacor’s newest product innovations.
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Lighting + Design

Lighting Lessons Learned: Five Kitchen Case Studies

When:

May 9, 2023

Presenter:

Doug Walter, AIA, CMKBD, Owner, Doug Walter Architects

CEUs: .1
What You Will Learn

Lighting is hard. Lighting is easy.  Which is it?  Come invest an hour with Subject Matter Expert Doug Walter as he simplifies lighting rules of thumb by sharing five of his projects and how he solved their lighting challenges; everything from flat 8-foot ceilings to modern vaulted ceilings, from minor to major remodels,  from tight budgets to unlimited ones. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get good lighting; you just need to follow the rules and put useable illumination down on the work surfaces using layers of lighting.

It all starts with the plan.  It used to be, we were taught that downlighting needed to be far from the cabinetry to avoid scallops and provide even light.  Through on-site research on actual jobs, Doug has proven that not to work at all. He has documented this research in over a dozen trade magazine articles and dozens of seminars. Comments from past attendees to Doug’s lighting classes said, “Very informative, useful practical tools and tips that I can actually take back and use” and “Best class I took at KBIS; so much information!”

Discover the new improved Lighting Guidelines in the new Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines, which Doug helped craft.  It has very specific advice on placing downlights and achieving minimum foot candle levels.  He also was one of three authors of the Lighting Badge curriculum and is an active member of the Illuminating Engineering Society, the AIA, and of course, NKBA.  He will share a six-page handout with glossary and bibliography to all attendees.

During this session, you will:

  • Discover the changes in the New Kitchen & Bath Guidelines in the lighting section and why they were changed.
  • Explore how inadequate code minimums and textbook guidelines can be and how to do your own quick and easy research.
  • Become inspired by photos of dozens of award-winning projects from around the country that combine great artificial and natural lighting.
  • Examine how to measure delivered foot candles on any project using a free smartphone app and be your own lighting expert.
Featured Presenter
Doug Walter, AIA, CMKBD –Owner – Doug Walter Architects

Doug Walter, AIA, CMKBD is an architect in Denver, who has specialized in residential remodeling for the past 42 years.   He has  special expertise in lighting, accessibility, historic preservation,  kitchens, & baths. Since 2015, he has been a Contributing Editor for Pro Remodeler magazine, where he has penned about 10 articles on lighting. He has presented at Lightfair 2020, and 5 of the  past Kitchen & Bath Industry Shows  and his two-hour lighting workshop was the third highest rated session at KBIS 2020.

He was  recognized as one of the “2018 Top 50  Innovators” by Kitchen & Bath Design News (K&BDN) magazine, and is an active member of  NKBA, IES, AIA, ICC, and NAHB.   Doug recently served on one national working group for NKBA, to create the Lighting Badge curriculum, and another one , currently,  charged with rewriting the Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines. He is also a voting member of the IES Committee, “Lighting for Seniors and the Low Vision Community”. He also was a winner of “Best Before & After Kitchen” 2020 NKBA RM Peak Awards and National Awards 2022 and 2023 at KBIS.

Webinar Sponsor
NKBA

The National Kitchen + Bath Association (NKBA) is a non-profit trade group that promotes professionalism in the kitchen and bath industry. Established in 1963 as a network of kitchen dealers, it has evolved into the premier association of designers, retailers, remodelers, manufacturers, distributors, fabricators, installers and other industry professionals.

Today, the NKBA represents an unparalleled network of peers, tools and resources designed to support professional growth and business success.

The association’s vision is a world in which everyone enjoys safe, beautiful and functional kitchen and bath spaces. Our mission is to help make it happen through the creation of marketplaces, networks, affiliations and certifications that raise the level of professionalism by inspiring, leading and empowering each member of our community.

2026 Design Competition Deadline Extended!

Submit your K&B projects by August 17 for your chance at winning more than $150,000 in cash prizes!

Member Pricing:

First Project: $175
Second Project: $150
Three or More Projects: $100/per project

Non-Member Pricing:

First Project: $225
Second Project: $200
Three or More Projects: $175/per project

Best Overall Category Awards:

Best Overall Kitchen – $25,000

Best Overall Bath – $25,000

Category Awards

1st place:  $5,000

2nd place:  $3,000

3rd place:  $2,000

Specialty Awards

  • Best Use of Smart Home Technology Sponsored and Judged by CEDIA
  • Awarded to the Best Technology Integrator

Kitchen Categories:

  • Kitchen – Small – under 300 sq. ft. 
  • Kitchen – Large – over 300 sq. ft.
  • Specialty Kitchen – i.e. dirty kitchen, caterer’s or scullery kitchens, Kosher kitchen, guest house kitchen, outdoor kitchen

Prizes | First: $5,000  Second: $3,000  Third: $2,000

Bath Categories:

  • Powder Room (No shower or tub)
  • Secondary Bath 
  • Primary Bath 

Prizes | First: $5,000  Second: $3,000  Third: $2,000

Best Overall Category Awards

Best Overall Kitchen** – $25,000

Best Overall Bath ** – $25,000

Sponsored Specialty Awards

  • Best Use of Smart Home Technology Sponsored and judged by CEDIA awarded to the best technology integrator.

See Entry Packet for details.

**Overall winners will be chosen from first-place winners of each category.

The competition entries will be scored based on the following core areas, click here for complete criteria and requirements.

Two rounds of judging will occur: 

Round 1  – Judges will review the projects on creativity, innovation as well as Wow factor.

Round 2  – The judging panel will be comprised of NKBA-certified designers. Those who move onto Round 2 will be notified in mid-August. Round 2 of the competition is tentatively set to run from August 25 through September 7.

  • NKBA Members: First project entry is $175; Second project is $150 an each subsequent entry is $100 per project.
  • Non-Members: First project entry is $225, while the second project submission is $200 and each subsequent entry is $175 per project.
  • The individual entrant must be the Designer of Record on each project. There is a maximum of two co-designers for each project.
  • If the entrant is not the owner of the business that billed the project, owner approval is required for eligibility.
  • The project(s) submitted must have been installed between January 1, 2024 and July 25, 2025.
  • Enter the project into the one category for which it is best suited, based on size and style. You may enter as many projects as you would like that fit into the various categories.
  • A new entry form is required for each project submitted and is to be completed in full. Each entry requires a separate fee.
  • Entries must be received in their entirety by August 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET with the entry fee paid in full.
  • All identifying design/firm information must be removed or blacked out from photographs, floor plans, elevations and design statements.
  • All required materials must be received digitally and labeled according to NKBA directions.
Submissions Now Closed!
  1. Review the 2025 Design Competition Entry Packet and Kitchen & Bath Guidelines
  2. Register for an account on the awards platform.
  3. Complete Online Entry Form
    • Select “Start entry” at the bottom of the page.
    • Create a Project ID, including the category-specific abbreviation (e.g. An entry in the Specialty Kitchens category would be SPK – Name of Entry).
    • Enter all required information, clicking “Save + Next” as you complete each tab.
    • Include any co-designers if applicable.
    • Click “Submit Entry” to proceed to payment.
  4. Upload 2 “Wow Factor” Photos
    • Submit two (2) high-resolution (300 dpi) color photos, approximately 8” x 10”.
    • Professional photography is highly recommended.
    • Do not include images that identify the project location or individuals (e.g., clients, children, site workers).
  5. Design Description
    • Submit a two-sentence design description.
  6. Photography release form (not seen by judges)
  1. Upload Additional Photos
    • Submit up to eight (8) more high-resolution (300 dpi) color photos (for a total of 10).
  2. Full Design Statement
    • A 200-400 word narrative detailing the project.
    • Include a bulleted list of key features and highlights.
    • Do not include identifying designer or firm information.
  3. Drawings (Construction, Floorplans, Elevations)
    • Scale MUST be ¼”, ½” or 1:20 metric scale.
    • Drawings must be cleanly labeled with dimensions.
    • Identifying designer and firm information must be removed.
  4. Client property release form (not seen by judges)
  5. Business owner form (not seen by judges)
  6. Headshot & Bio (not seen by judges)

Please use this as a guide when preparing your design statement.

  • All design statements must be typed.
  • Do not include any identifying member information such as:
    • Client name
    • Client address
    • Business name
    • Business address
  • Statements should be 200-400 word statements that outline the client needs, objectives, design philosophy, challenges, solutions and special circumstances (think of the design statement you’d pitch to a magazine).
  • Objectives: Outlines criteria to be met by your design solution
    • Create casual dining for large family.
    • Update to contemporary tastes of clients.
    • Provide healing options for a sick family.
    •  Create multigenerational kitchen.
  • Design Challenges: Describe fixed elements or special circumstances
    • Design space around support posts, air ducts, plumbing, etc.
    • Include client’s sports souvenirs collection.
  • Design Solutions: Describe how you creatively solved the challenges, for example:
    • Used negative space between air ducts and created storage space.
  • Special Features: Highlight design elements that are unique or notable, for example:
    • Technology and voice activation.
    • Repurposed wood from the dance studio where client danced as a child.
  • To present your entry in the best way, please use the above guidelines to assist in creating a concise, effective design statement. This will help to ensure that the judges have a good understanding of your project. It can be written as a narrative, a  comprehensive bulleted list or a combination of both.
  • Any materials are omitted or if the required criteria is not met, the entry will be disqualified. No notification will be given. NKBA reserves the right to disqualify a project, pre, during and after the contest judging. Entry fees will not be refunded.
  • You state you are an NKBA member and we find this to be false.
  • Your submission is not received by 11:59 p.m. ET on August 17, 2025. Incomplete entries will be disqualified. 
  • You do not adhere to all competition guidelines, requirements and deadlines.
  • You do not submit all documentation in one digital submission.

To enter your project(s) in the 2026 NKBA | KBIS Design Competition, click here.

To view the 2025 NKBA Professional Design Competition Award Winners, click here.

NKBA | KBIS Design + Industry Awards Finalists Announced in September 2025.
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Member News: LG Fights Hunger, Delta’s KBIS Takeaways, Thor’s New Tilt, Chapter News and More

Photos of Kingsborough Community College’s “Food for Thought Food Pantry” and their new refrigeration from LG!
By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

LG teams up with Swipe Out Hunger: LG Electronics USA has partnered with Swipe Out Hunger, a non-profit that addresses student food insecurity, to provide healthy meals to more than 500,000 college students in need. The program seeks to raise awareness and ensure that food pantries on campuses around the country have appropriate refrigeration. LG is providing 120 refrigerators to 60 campuses in Swipe Out Hunger’s network and will stock them with healthy foods and provide grants to an additional 40 schools to upgrade their current refrigeration. Learn more here.

Delta Faucet talks KBIS trends: As part of its Pipeline webinar series and community network, Delta Faucet Co. hosted a discussion last week on several themes selected from KBIS. Faye Adams, corporate learning lead for Delta, examined trends offered by Elle H-Millard, CKD, CLIPP, corporate learning lead for DFC, and Allison Fannin, designer and construction project manager of Two Thirty-Five Designs and a member of the Design Hounds trendspotting team. Among the key topics were lifestyle shifts toward health and wellness, clutter-free ease and convenience, creating luxurious spaces and more. To view the webinar, visit PipelinebyDFC.com.

Image courtesy of Thor Kitchen

Thor’s latest tilt: Thor Kitchen has introduced a new style of electric ranges as part of its portfolio of energy-efficient cooking appliances. Tilt Panel Professional Electric Ranges feature a touch-control motorized panel that adjusts the viewing angle for better accessibility and functionality. The range comes in a 30- or 36-inch width, features a cooktop with five heating elements and an oven with multiple cooking options. More info here.

Image courtesy of Egger Woods

Egger expands: Egger Wood Products has invested $21 million to expand capacity on its thermally-fused laminate production capacity by 50 percent in its Lexington, NC, factory — bumping production to more than 155 million square feet per year and alleviating supply chain and logistical challenges. Egger said it will also invest an additional $22 million to install a decorative paper impregnation line. The new lamination and impregnation lines will add 40 new jobs and cut lead times significantly. KBB has more.

Trade Events

Lumens to Host Women in Design Summit: Lighting specialist Lumens is hosting a virtual Women in Design Summit, March 28, starting at 9 a.m. (PT).  The live virtual summit will feature conversations with design industry thought leaders moderated by Lumens SVP of Growth & Innovation Patricia Kittredge and also featuring designers Patricia Urquiola, Thabisa Mjo, Rosie Li, Lucie Koldova, Constance Guisset, Jette Scheib and Emiliana Martinelli. The second panel, The Business of Design, will be moderated by Lumens CEO Laura Walsh and includes executives and curators Roberta Silva, Carlotta de Bevilacqua, Joana Bover, Amelie Du Passage and Benedicte Collod. The webinars are part of the Lumens Trade Education Program and are CEU-qualified. More info and registration here.

Image via Salone del Mobile.

Salone del Mobile set for April: The Salone del Mobile trade fair in Milan is set for April 18-23 at the Rho Fairgrounds. The mega-show showcases all major aspects of interior design, furniture, home accessories and includes kitchen cabinetry, storage, appliances, spa and bath products and more. To register and for more info, go here.

Image courtesy of Coverings

Coverings heads to Orlando: Coverings, North America’s largest trade show dedicated to the international tile and stone materials, takes place April 18-21 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. Its three main sponsors include Ceramics of Italy (COI), Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and Tile of Spain (TOS), and it will include a presentation of a robust expo of the newest tile, stone and installation products by more than 1,000 exhibitors from 40 countries — plus educational workshops, show tours, on-demand content and more. Additional info here.

People News

Gower to lead Smeg U.S.: Rod Gower has been named general manager for U.S. operations of Italian appliance maker Smeg. Gower joins Smeg from LG, where he held leadership roles and was instrumental in building its luxury Signature Kitchen Suite brand and the LG Builder Channel. Smeg is known for its sleek Italian design and engineering, retro styling and collaborations with Fiat and Dolce & Gabbana and licensing Disney and Peanuts characters. More Info here.

James Simon Galerie in Berlin. Photo by Simon Menges

Chipperfield wins Pritzker: British architect David Chipperfield has won the 2023 Pritzker Architecture Prize for his work spanning four decades. The selection jury praised him for his “commitment to an architecture of understated but transformative civic presence.” He is the founder of David Chipperfield Architects in London and has offices in Berlin, Milan, Shanghai and Santiago de Compostela. Dezeen has more.

Lauren Santo Domingo. Courtesy of Tiffany & Co

Tiffany & Co. taps home director: Iconic jeweler Tiffany & Co. has appointed Lauren Santo Domingo as its first artistic director for the home category. Santo Domingo, cofounder and chief brand officer for Moda Operandi, is working in partnership with Tiffany’s housewares design and production team in an advisory capacity, according to Women’s Wear Daily. The appointment signals a push in home furnishings, which include tabletop, glassware, Limoges porcelain, Murano hand-blown glass and more. WWD has the story.

Chapter News

Queen’s Cup in Carolina: The Carolina Chapter will be hosting its annual VIP tent at the Queen’s Cup Steeplechase at Brooklandwood racetrack in Mineral Springs, NC. The event takes place on April 29, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., in the exclusive Member’s Hill area with badge-only admittance. NKBA guests have all-inclusive access to food and an open bar. Members are $300, non-members are $450 for tent access. Limited VIP parking passes are $50. Sponsored by Ferguson, proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. More info and tickets here.

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Member News: Launches from LG and Kohler, KCMA’s Sustainable Push, Chapter News, and More

By Dianne M. Pogoda

COMPANY NEWS

LG INTRODUCES THINQ UPGRADE: LG Electronics has launched its LG ThinQ Up upgradeable home appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, oven ranges, and dishwashers. These appliances enable users to upload software and add hardware to enjoy new features and functions. Launched in South Korea last year, LG ThinQ Up will roll out in the U.S. and internationally starting in March. LG will showcase its latest innovations, including the new ThinQ UP appliances, at KBIS with its sister brand, Signature Kitchen Suite, in Booth #W3045-W3445 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For more details, see KBB.

HAIER EARNS TOP EUROMONITOR RANKING: Market research firm Euromonitor International has ranked Haier Smart Home the world’s leading appliance brand by sales, with annual revenue exceeding $32 billion (U.S.) This is the 14th consecutive year that the Qingdao, China-based brand has earned this designation. GE Appliances are part of the Haier family. For more info, go here.

KOHLER LAUNCHES SPRIG: Kohler Co.’s new brand of wellness products, Sprig, is designed to create at-home spa experiences, elevating daily routines into premium self-care rituals. Sprig includes innovative shower infusion systems and pods with skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, premium bath bombs with shea butter and coconut oil, and versatile body and linen mists. Kohler will be at KBIS in Booth #N2205 at the LVCC. KBB has more detail.

INDUSTRY NEWS

KCMA’S SUSTAINABILITY EFFORT: The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) has partnered with Climate Positive NOW™ in an initiative to help kitchen and bath showrooms and dealers educate their customers about the sustainability advantages of using wood-based materials in kitchens and cabinets. “Many companies and industries say they are planning to be ‘climate positive’ by 2030 or 2040 — but our members are there now,” said Betsy Natz, CEO of KCMA. “Research shows 23 percent of consumers will switch to buy products from companies that share their values on environmental issues, while another 42 percent have changed their consumption habits based on their environmental beliefs.” Check out the new KCMA website content for ways to help create awareness of the environmental impact of using sustainable building materials and advancing a lower-carbon future.

AIA SURVEY CITES SUSTAINABILITY, RESILIENCE: The latest Home Design Trends Survey from the American Institute of Architects lists resilient communities and sustainable building practices as top priorities. Resilience is especially important in areas prone to wildfires and other natural disasters; sustainability enhances energy efficiency as well as the health of individuals and the planet. NKBA member Jamie Gold, CKD, reports in Forbes.

BUILDER SENTIMENT SOFTENS: Rising mortgage rates and inflated construction costs are dragging builders’ sentiment down, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Confidence in the market for new homes fell every month in 2022, and is at its lowest level since 2012 – except for a brief stretch in 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, when housing demand surged. NAHB expects weaker conditions throughout 2023, with recovery in 2024. KBDN has more.

CHAPTER NEWS

MANHATTAN’S VEGAS ADVENTURE: The Manhattan Chapter is holding its January meeting during KBIS in Las Vegas. The meeting will be in person for members who can attend and simulcast for those unable to join onsite. On Jan. 31, the chapter has arranged a tour of the Savant Smart Home, with a bus leaving from the Las Vegas Convention Center at 3:15 p.m. PST. The tour qualifies for 0.1 CEU and will also be simulcast. After exploring the 15,000-square-foot smart home showcasing Savant’s newest lighting, entertainment, energy production and management systems, the chapter meeting will take place at 5 p.m. (Pacific Time), 8 p.m. (Eastern Time). For more info, go here.

PHOTO CLASS WITH PUGET SOUND: Learn how to elevate the quality of your project photos and videos for marketing, to pitch publications and media, and stand out in design competitions at the Puget Sound Chapter’s presentation, “Capturing the Essence of Design With Your Photographer.” Anton Benedikt of AB Photo & Video will offer a blueprint for achieving next-level photography and videography. The event takes place Jan. 19, 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Cosentino Showroom, 19024 62nd Avenue South in Kent, Washington. Registration is $25 for members, $30 for non-members, and $15 for students. More info here.