A selection of our most discerning judges dish on what makes a successful submission.

By Nicholas Tamarin

The NKBA | KBIS Design Competition is considered the Oscars of the kitchen and bath industry, renowned for its prestige and the significant rewards it offers. It provides a critical platform for professionals to showcase their talents and advance their careers. But what truly goes on behind the scenes of this esteemed event? What are the judges looking for, and how can entrants maximize their chances of success? Let’s delve into the judging process and reveal the secrets to creating winning designs.

Inside the Judging Process

Judges dedicate considerable time and effort to thoroughly evaluate each entry, acknowledging the significant investment entrants make in professional photography and comprehensive submissions. On average, judges spend around 15 minutes per entry, providing valuable feedback and numerical scores. This feedback is essential for entrants, helping them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

Entries are evaluated based on several core areas: creativity; presentation; design planning; elements and principles of design; safety and ergonomics; and adherence to the NKBA Planning Guidelines (4th Edition). Judges also consider the overall wow factor, the longevity of the design, and the functionality of the layout. Each entry receives careful consideration, with judges striving for fairness and thoroughness. We asked a trio of our most experienced judges to share valuable insights into their evaluation process:

Insights from the Judges

Doug Walter, AIA, CMKBD, highlights critical areas such as lighting and adherence to the Design Guidelines, pointing out issues like incorrect lighting placement and the need for clear graphics. He also stresses the importance of accurate graphics and dimensions. “It takes a lot of time and money to professionally photograph a project, then to pull everything together to enter it,” Walter says. “We therefore owe it to each entrant to give their entry our full attention, and not to rush through them. What ultimately separates the contenders from the finalists isn’t just the photography—it’s the clarity and completeness of the design statements and plans. Judges understand that your photographer may Photoshop their photos, but do NOT let them photoshop out the recessed lights, as I’ve seen in many projects, as that’s one of the judging criteria – lighting! My advice would be to do a combination of shots with lights on and lights off. Particularly effective is daytime natural light shots, and then coming back after sunset and doing several shots with lights blazing, and include at least one of them in your final submittal. But perhaps the number one tip I would give designers, besides making sure the project meets the Design Guidelines, is to triple check that the graphics are to full NKBA standards. Not dimensioning aisleways, not putting ceiling height on the plan, or not including a centerline string can lose you a point or two.”

Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD, CID, stresses the importance of supporting documents, stating they are just as critical as visuals. “What ultimately separates the contenders from the finalists isn’t just the photography—it’s the clarity and completeness of the design statements and plans,” McCarthy says. “What many entrants may not realize is that these supporting documents are just as critical as the visuals for the judges to each segment of the score sheet. A well-crafted design statement that clearly aligns with the plans and the NKBA guidelines helps us, as judges, fully understand the intent, process, and function of the space. When the narrative is incomplete, disorganized, or missing key details, it’s difficult to give a high score on those segments specifically on the score sheet—even if the photos are stunning. These should be easy areas to score high in and you do not want to give away points. If I could give one piece of advice to future entrants, it’s this: Treat your design statement and plans like your backstage pass.”

Cailin Thelen, CMKBD, focuses on uncluttered plans, clear dimensions, safety, staged photos with close-ups, concise design statements with bullet points, and introductions that add personality. “Safety in design—think water closets with pocket or outswing doors, shower controls at shower entrances, and ranges flanked with open counter space as a starting place,” Thelen says. “I also like nicely staged photos, but especially with close-ups of specialties or materials. Design statements should be concise with bullet points and a short introduction that gives the project and designer/client relationship personality. NKBA’s recommended elements are also a foolproof system for showcasing your project—even if it’s not for an NKBA competition. They are: Objectives, Design Challenges along with the Solutions, and Special Features. Don’t hide the highlights in a block of words.”

Key Takeaways for Entrants

To increase their chances of success, entrants should keep the following in mind:

• Pay Attention to Detail: Every aspect, from photography to design statements and plans, matters. Ensure all graphics meet NKBA standards, including accurate dimensions and centerline strings.
• Follow NKBA Guidelines: Adherence to guidelines is crucial, especially regarding safety, lighting, aisle widths, and vent hood sizes. Thoroughly review and follow the NKBA Planning Guidelines.
• Provide Clear Documentation: Ensure plans are clear, dimensions are accurate, and design statements are concise and informative. Treat your design statement and plans like a “backstage pass.” Include detailed descriptions, appliance/product lists, and before plans/photos for remodels.
• Don’t Neglect Graphics: Triple-check that graphics meet full NKBA standards. Pay attention to accurate graphics and dimensions, as even a single point deduction can be detrimental.
• Highlight Special Features: Showcase unique elements and materials with close-up photos.
• Focus on Safety: Design for safety, including clearances, landing zones, and proper lighting.
• Seek Feedback: Understand that judge comments are invaluable for improvement.
• Craft a Compelling Narrative: Write a clear and well-organized design statement that aligns with the plans and showcases the project’s intent.
• Capture High-Quality Photos: Submit both natural light and lit photos, ensuring lighting is accurately represented. Avoid photoshopping out recessed lights.
• Showcase Creativity and Functionality: Design spaces that are innovative, practical, and built to last.

The NKBA Design Competition is a rigorous process that demands excellence in every facet of design. By understanding the judging criteria, insights from the judges, and incorporating these tips, future entrants can better prepare and present their work, significantly enhancing their chances of success.

To learn more about the NKBA | KBIS’s Kitchen and Bath Design Competition please visit click here.

These essentials from some of our favorite member companies can elevate any backyard BBQ.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As warmer months approach, the backyard becomes more than just a patch of green—it transforms into the heart of home entertaining. But outdoor living has evolved well beyond the classic grill. Today’s backyard kitchens are fully equipped culinary spaces designed for convenience, performance, and entertaining in style. Whether hosting a summer pizza night or prepping drinks for a weekend BBQ, the right grill, pizza oven, refrigerator, or sink can make all the difference.

The following NKBA | KBIS member brands make the products that make it easy to entertain in style. With thoughtful design and cutting-edge performance, they’ll ensure your next backyard gathering will impress regardless of what’s on the menu. Whether you’re building a full alfresco kitchen or simply upgrading your BBQ station, investing in these high-quality outdoor appliances where durability meets design will make you the ultimate host of the season.

PITT Cooking: Minimalist Design and Maximum Performance

For those who believe outdoor cooking should look as good as it performs, PITT Cooking offers a striking alternative to the traditional grill setup. Known for its integrated gas burners built directly into the countertop, PITT allows for a seamless, open design. 

Why we love it: The minimalist aesthetic is paired with high-performance power, making it a go-to choice for design-forward homeowners who want complete control over their outdoor kitchen layout. Plus, its durable materials stand up beautifully to the elements, season after season.

Urban Bonfire x Kalamazoo: Custom Outdoor Kitchens That Wow

Creating a cohesive, functional, and stylish outdoor space starts with the right cabinetry—and Urban Bonfire delivers in spades. Their custom-built, marine-grade aluminum cabinetry is made to withstand harsh weather without sacrificing visual appeal. Combine it with Kalamazoo Gourmet’s best-in-class outdoor appliances, and you’ve got a kitchen that rivals any indoor setup. From weather-resistant surfaces to built-in grills and beverage centers, this pairing brings professional-grade sophistication and performance to your backyard. 

Why we love it: The Kalamazoo AFPO-C Countertop Artisan Fire Pizza Oven offers the convenience of gas power while reaching temperatures of 800°F+ for authentic, wood-fired results without the wait. Its dual burners allow for customizable heat zones and precise control.

Hestan: Bold Color Meets Culinary Precision

Known for pushing the boundaries of outdoor cooking, Hestan delivers robust grilling systems with a bold, designer touch. Their color-customizable grills—available in a range of vibrant hues—add a pop of personality to any outdoor setting. But it’s not just about looks. With infrared sear burners, motion-activated under-hood lighting, and precision control, Hestan grills are made for serious outdoor chefs who demand both style and substance. 

Why we love it: Hestan’s Outdoor Refrigerators, with their commercial-grade build, LED interior lighting, adjustable shelves, and temperature control system designed for extreme heat, are equally as excellent as their grills.

Ruvati: Making Sinks Sturdy and Sleek

A functional outdoor sink is essential for a fully equipped prep station. The best outdoor sinks offer durability, weather resistance, and sleek design. Ruvati’s marine-grade outdoor sinks are designed for outdoor areas where extreme corrosion resistance is crucial.

Why we love it: Its Outdoor Workstation Sinks stand out for their heavy-duty 16-gauge stainless steel construction and inclusion of built-in accessories like a cutting board, colander, and drying rack.

Over $150,000 in total prize money will be awarded.

By Nicholas Tamarin

The NKBA | KBIS Design Competition 2026 is now officially open for entries, offering kitchen and bath designers a fantastic opportunity to showcase their talent on an international stage. This is your chance to gain industry recognition and compete for significant cash prizes—with over $150,000 in total prize money, the stakes are high! Top winners in the Best Overall Kitchen and Best Overall Bath categories can earn $25,000 each, and an additional $25,000 if they are NKBA certified, for a potential total of $50,000! Even first, second, and third place winners receive substantial cash awards.

Beyond the monetary prizes, recognition from the NKBA Design Competition is a significant achievement. It’s one of the most prestigious competitions in the K&B industry, and winners are honored at the NKBA’s Design + Industry Awards Ceremony at KBIS 2026 in Orlando from February 17-19. Winning can also lead to increased exposure through media outlets and open up new career opportunities.

Projects will be judged in two rounds by top trade publication editors and NKBA-certified designers, who will be looking for creativity, innovation, and that wow factor. So don’t miss your chance to become the next K&B superstar! 

The submission deadline is July 25, 2025. Visit the NKBA 2026 Design Competition page for more information and to submit your entry today!

CNC Cabinetry is ready to roll out the first of its kind cabinetry following its KBIS star turn.

By Nicholas Tamarin

After debuting at KBIS 2025, it’s time to get ready to experience the future of kitchen design with Vibe Technology, an intriguing new innovation from CNC Cabinetry. Imagine cabinet doors that can change color at your command, matching your mood, music, or décor. 

Based in South Plainfield, New Jersey, CNC Cabinetry’s Vibe Technology isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a dynamic and interactive space. Nathan Indig, the Founder and CEO of CNC Cabinetry, long envisioned color-changing cabinetry, but now what started as a playful idea in the office has evolved into a patent-pending technology ready to hit the market.

How Does It Work?

The VibeSpaces system involves purchasing an entire cabinet box from CNC Cabinetry, as the color-changing doors are hardwired into the unit. Installation is straightforward, with units connecting easily. An accompanying app allows you to control the colors and effects. You can choose vibrant neon shades or mute them to a deep forest green or calming blue. When turned off, the doors default to a gray color.

More Than Just Color

Vibe Technology goes beyond simple color changes. You can connect the cabinets to music, allowing the doors to respond to the beat. The technology can also pick up sound in the environment or through the mobile app, creating a synchronized light and sound experience.

A Niche Product with Broad Potential
CNC Cabinetry acknowledges that Vibe Technology is a niche product but sees a wide range of potential applications. While it’s initially designed for kitchen cabinetry, it could be used in retail spaces, bars, clubs, and even chill-out caves. To learn more about Vibe Technology head on over here.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

SieMatic’s New Line: Premium German kitchen maker SieMatic has introduced the Mondial Style Collection of kitchen cabinetry, workspaces, and storage solutions. The line is characterized by its minimalist geometric forms, luxe finishes, and handle-free door systems. Shapes include cubed glass-front cabinets, semi-circular bars, round tables, customized drawer inserts and varying cabinet elevations. Learn more here.

LOTTE Links with EKO: LOTTE Chemical, a manufacturer of high-end engineered quartz surfaces under the Radianz Quartz brand, had entered a deal with EKO Stone to promote, sell, and distribute Radianz across the Midwest U.S. market. LOTTE has facilities all over the world with an office in California. EKO, which manufactures and distributes quartz and natural stone surfaces, is headquartered in the Chicago area. The deal will make Radianz more readily available to the Midwest and cut lead times. Learn more about Radianz here and EKO here.

A Launch and a Purchase for Wilsonart: Engineered surfacing giant Wilsonart has introduced a new series in its Thinscape® Composite Tops collection. Sixteen new designs of the durable composite material are available, including woodgrain, stone, solid, and textile patterns. Ultra-thin (half-inch thick) surfaces are available in multiple sizes and are certified eco-friendly. Wilsonart also acquired Virginia Tile’s woodworking products distribution business. The acquired operations are headquartered in Kansas City, KS, with branches in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, OK; Wichita, KS; and Springfield, MO. These locations distribute decorative surfaces, cabinet accessories and decorative and functional hardware. More detail here.

Officine Gullo Opens in Dallas: Florence, Italy-based luxury Italian appliance and kitchen manufacturer Officine Gullo, an NKBA Global Connect member, has opened a showroom in Dallas. The 4,000 square-foot space on Oak Lawn Avenue was previously an art gallery and it retains the “artistic atmosphere” to showcase each product “like a piece of art,” according to Matteo Gullo, managing director. This is the company’s seventh flagship gallery in the U.S. It has two locations in New York, and galleries in Boston, Miami, Palm Beach, and Los Angeles. KBB has more.

Chapter Updates

Win Big With Metro New York: The Metro New York Chapter is hosting its annual Casino Night on May 22, 6 to 9 pm, at UMI Stone, 3 Dubon Court, Farmingdale, NY. Enjoy blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker tables, catered food and cocktails, and chances to win raffles and giveaways and a three-night stay at a luxury beach resort in Panama. The evening is free for NBKA members, $40 for non-members. Register here.

Sharp Showers With West Michigan: Learn about Schluter with the West Michigan Chapter on May 28, 5 to 7 pm, at the new Floor & Decor showroom at 4250 28^th Street SE in Grand Rapids. Casey Bossard from Schluter will demonstrate how to install the Schluter Kerdi system for a great-looking, high-performance shower. Pasta dinner is included with registration, which is $20 for NKBA members, $30 for non-members. Info and registration here.

Industry News

New Home Sales Spike: Sales of new single-family homes jumped 7.4 percent in March over February, and were 6 percent over March 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Part of this can be attributed to the median sales price of a new home falling 1.9 percent in March from February, as mortgage rates held steady in March, with the 30-year rate hovering just under 7 percent. Housing permits also edged up 1.6 percent in March from February, but starts were down 11.4 percent on a monthly basis. More detail here.

Designer Andrew Risinger’s Dallas outpost snagged the hardware in the Kitchen & Bath Design Centers (up to 2,500 sq. ft.) Category

By Nicholas Tamarin

In front of a packed crowd at the Lafite Ballroom in the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas, Kitchen, Bath & Home was awarded the Innovative Showroom Award in the Kitchen & Bath Design Centers (up to 2,500 sq. ft.) Category. As part of NKBA’s Design + Industry Awards program that kicked off KBIS 2025, the Innovative Showroom Awards recognize kitchen and bath showrooms that excel in customer engagement, experience, and education.

Kitchen, Bath & Home’s Sales Manager and Lead Designer Andrew Risinger, CMKBD, earned recognition for his innovative design and immersive experience. Unlike traditional showrooms, the Dallas space goes beyond static displays, offering visitors a real-life environment that showcases how products and design elements function within a home setting.

The showroom redefines the concept of a kitchen and bath design center. By prioritizing experience, functionality, and innovation, it offers visitors a unique and inspiring look at the possibilities of kitchen design. The goal was to simulate a real kitchen environment, complete with cooking, sink, and island stations, where visitors can experience the functionality and flow of a well-designed kitchen. The showroom also features a conference room designed to resemble a kitchen table, fostering collaboration and conversation.

“What makes our space truly innovative is its layout, which functions as a microcosm of a home,” Risinger says. “From a cozy bar area to a dining space, the arrangement is designed to feel lived-in and relatable, rather than a sterile showroom. This approach allows visitors to walk through the space and see how everything works together seamlessly, inspiring them to visualize these elements in their own homes.”

Key Features and Innovations:

• Stretch Ceiling: A standout feature, the stretch ceiling creates a modern aesthetic and enhances the spatial experience.
• Groundbreaking Products: The showroom features innovative products like the Tulip modular cooking system, demonstrating flexibility in kitchen design.
• Unique Material Use: The Grothouse surface, a waterproof wood countertop with a seamlessly integrated sink and charging station, highlights design ingenuity.

The judges for last year’s ISA were:

• Madison Fitzgerald: Director of Consultant Services, Commercial and Residential at the Middleby Corporation
• Jake Hohman: Senior Category Manager, Wholesale Kitchen at Moen Incorporated
• Jennifer Thompson, CKD: Owner and Senior Designer of Creative Cabinets and Design

To check out more NKBA | KBIS award winners head over here!

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

Pilar Cosentino Named CEO Amid Exec Changes: The board of Spanish surfacing giant Cosentino has named Pilar Cosentino CEO, part of a transition of governance to the next generation of the family-owned company. She was previously EVP. Eduardo Cosentino now assumes the EVP role, adding marketing and digital business, expansion, and pricing to his global responsibilities and role as CEO of Cosentino Americas. Eduardo is also Chair of the NKBA board of directors. In a separation of the Chairman and CEO functions, Francisco (Paco) Martínez-Cosentino continues in his role as Chairman, ceding the CEO role to his daughter. Francisco is a 2015 inductee into the Kitchen & Bath Hall of Fame. Álvaro de la Haza assumes the new role of Chief Corporate Officer, reporting to the Chairman. The company also created a Management Committee to act as a coordinating body for management, supporting the CEO executive functions. Learn more here.

Nobilia North America Names Ocampo: Jenn Ocampo has been named vice president of marketing and communications for premium cabinetry and kitchen furniture maker nobilia North America. She reports to Cheryl Fenelle Dixon, chief marketing and communications officer. Ocampo has more than 15 years of industry experience, most recently as director of marketing and communications for Dornbracht Americas. KBB has more.

LIXIL, American Bath In Partnership: LIXIL Americas and American Bath Group have formed a strategic partnership in the North American region to bolster their bathing businesses. The venture will expand LIXIL’s bath-sector brands, including American Standard, DXV, and Elger, and leverage both companies’ core competencies to enable growth through cross sales. LIXIL will license exclusive rights to ABG to produce and distribute bath products under the three brands, and ABG will also acquire LIXIL’s manufacturing facility in Salem, OH, and a portion of the manufacturing assets of sites in Mansfield, OH, and Monterrey, Mexico. More details here.

BHS Taps Funk: Christian Funk has been named Chief Financial Officer for the North American region for BHS Home Appliances Corp., a leader in premium and luxury home appliances based in Germany. He succeeds Jesús Egido, who is returning to Europe after successfully completing his long-time North American assignment. Funk joined the company’s German headquarters last October after serving in several roles with the larger Bosch Group in Europe and China, including VP of Controlling for the Business Unit Video Systems and Solutions at Bosch Security Systems B.V. in the Netherlands, and as Head of Controlling, Purchasing and Logistics for Robert Bosch B.V., Energy and Building Solutions, also in the Netherlands. KBB has more.

Chapter Updates

AI and ID with Northern New England: Learn about “Designing for the Future: AI’s Impact on Interior Design” with the Northern New England Chapter, May 13, 5 to 7 pm, at OHM International stone showroom, 129 York Avenue in Randolph, MA. This CEU event is presented by Vanessa DeKoekkoek, Global Training Manager at 2020, who will explore how AI technology can enhance space planning, furniture arrangement, and color selection, how it can increase efficiency, enable customization, and help with decision making. Cost is $35. Register here.

May on the Move in Minnesota: The Minnesota State Chapter’s annual May on the Move all-day bus trip to St. Germain’s Cabinet showroom in Brainerd, MN, takes place on May 8. Depart from the Maple Grove Home Depot at 8:30 am, enjoy fun on the way out, and a showroom social and lunch, and a build-your-own-bouquet stem bar. The showroom event runs from 12 to 2 pm for local members, and the bus arrives back in Maple Grove at 4:30. The cost is $10 for those taking the bus. More info here.

Industry News

Visionary Architect David M. Childs Dies at 83: David M. Childs, FAIA, the innovative architect behind One World Trade Center, died on March 26 from complications of Lewy body dementia, a few days shy of his 84^th birthday. Childs, a partner and two-time chairman of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, was the visionary behind many iconic buildings that transformed the skyline of Manhattan from the 1980s to the 2010s. He joined the storied architectural firm in 1971 In Washington DC, after earning a master’s degree in architecture from Yale. One World Trade Center, also known as Freedom Tower, which was completed in 2014 adjacent to the site of the original twin towers destroyed in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, served as an anchor for the resurrection of downtown Manhattan. Among his other best-known projects are the redevelopment of Penn Station, the 72-story building at 35 Hudson Yards, 1540 Broadway in the heart of Times Square, the International Arrivals Building at JFK International Airport, and 7 World Trade Center in New York. He also designed the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, the expansion of Dulles International Airport and the master plan for the National Mall in Washington, and the Changi Airport international terminal in Singapore. Architect Magazine has more.

Barcelona Updated: The Barcelona line, one of the most iconic furniture collections ever designed, is getting a facelift. Until recently, the modernist chair designed by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and produced by Knoll, only came in leather with polished chrome frames. Now, the chair, daybed and footstool will be available in options including upholstery choices of twill, velvet, and linen, and an ultra-matte black frame.  CNN Style has more.

NKBA members heading to High Point Market, taking place from April 26 – 30th, won’t want to miss an exciting panel discussion hosted by NKBA on Monday, April 28, 2025 at The Point. This is a must-attend conversation that explores how kitchen and bath design is shaping — and being shaped by — whole-home living trends.

The Point: NKBA K&B Discussion

Date: Monday, April 28, 2025
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM
Location: The Point | Commerce Avenue, between Wrenn and Main

Panel Discussion: Emerging Trends in Kitchen and Bath Design
Moderator: Heather Shannon, SVP of Marketing & Communications, NKBA | KBIS
Panelists:
• Michel Smith Boyd, Owner, Michel Smith Boyd, LLC
• Sharon Sherman, ASID, CKD, Owner, Thyme and Place Design

Join us as Heather leads a dynamic conversation with two of the industry’s top design talents. Together, they’ll discuss regional and national kitchen and bath trends, the integration of K&B into full-home design, the rise of outdoor living spaces, and the evolving role of these key rooms in today’s homes. The discussion will conclude with an audience Q&A.

This is an ideal opportunity for interior designers of all disciplines to discover how kitchen and bath are expanding beyond their traditional boundaries — and how this shift can open new creative and business possibilities across the residential design space.

Why High Point Market Matters

Held every April and October in High Point, North Carolina, High Point Market is the world’s largest home furnishings trade show. It brings together tens of thousands of designers, architects, buyers, and manufacturers to explore the newest innovations in furniture, lighting, textiles, and now — increasingly — kitchen and bath. As NKBA continues to bridge design categories and drive conversations across sectors, our presence at High Point Market reflects a growing convergence of style, function, and whole-home integration.

We Invite You to Join Us

If you’re attending High Point Market this spring, be sure to stop by The Point on April 28 to take part in this insightful conversation. This panel is a perfect example of NKBA’s mission to empower design through connection — bringing together our members, the design community, and emerging ideas that are transforming the way we live.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Company News

True Introduces New Columns: Luxury home refrigeration maker True Residential launched four 24-inch column units at KBIS 2025. The new columns are designed for efficient use of space and include a refrigerator, freezer, beverage column, and dual-zone wine column with a 105-bottle capacity. Each column is crafted from 300-series stainless steel inside and out, includes precision temperature control, and environmentally friendly R600a hydrocarbon refrigerant. While compact in size, they offer the same premium features and functions of their larger counterparts and are available in True’s range of colors, finishes and hardware. Learn more here.

Conacher Named to BiKBBI Advisory Board: Mark Conacher has been named Executive Advisor for the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI)’s Strategic Advisory Board. Vancouver-based Conacher is currently Managing Director of Senstec USA, the North American arm of Sestak, a Northern Ireland-based maker of patented non-slip shower trays. BiKBBI is an NKBA Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partner and Senstec is a Global Connect member. BiKBBI is the UK’s only government-sanctioned trade association dedicated to kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom installation, working with professional installers, retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. More details here.

Bello Makes North America Debut: British-based Bello Bathrooms has launched in North America with headquarters in Ontario, CA, east of Los Angeles. The luxury plumbing brand’s newest product in its freestanding tub collection is Bellocast^TM, a proprietary composite high-performance material that’s up to 30 percent lighter than traditional materials. It has a slip-resistant surface and a hydrophobic coating that repels water, grease, and stains. DPHA has more.

Chapter Updates

Meet Maria in Susquehanna: The Susquehanna Valley Chapter will host a special event featuring Maria Stapperfenne, CMKBD, CLIPP, presenting “Cue…THE CLOSER!” on April 15, 5:30 to 8 pm, at sponsor Kountry Kraft, a Fox Plumbing Showroom, 28 E 28^th Division Hwy, Lititz, PA. Maria, a former national president of NKBA, will share her top 10 tips to shorten the sales cycle, enhance communication skills, and master the art of closing deals in this CEU-qualified session. NKBA Members are $25, non-members are $35, and students are $5. Register here.

Florida Chapters at Coverings: The South Florida and Central Florida Chapters, co-hosts of this year’s Coverings Global tile & Stone Experience in Orlando, are offering complimentary show passes to the event April 29 to May 2. NKBA-sponsored activities include a UMI “Caribbean Night” After Party on Tuesday, April 29, a show tour with KBB Person of the Year Alena Capra, CMKBD, on Wednesday, April 30, daily NKBA Member Social Hours from 12 to 1, and more. The Central Florida Chapter is also sponsoring a booth with NKBA and Chapter info, snacks and drinks. Visit coverings.com and register using code NKBACF to claim your complimentary pass, and learn more here.

CMW Field Trip To Kohler: The Chicago Mid West Chapter is organizing an overnight trip to Kohler Co. in Kohler, WI, May 8 and 9. Join the chapter to explore Kohler’s latest innovations and trends in kitchen and bath design. The trip includes round-trip bus transportation, dinner and hotel accommodations on May 8, breakfast, lunch and a tour at Kohler on May 9. Registration closes April 18, and the trip is $500 for NKBA members, $600 for non-members. More info here.

Industry News

Harvard Report: Strength Amid Challenges: In its most recent report, “Improving America’s Housing 2025,” the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies said the U.S. remodeling market surpassed $600 billion in the wake of the pandemic, and despite recent softening, remains 50 percent above pre-pandemic levels. The pandemic fueled unprecedented spending on remodeling and this trend is likely to remain “extraordinarily strong,” thanks to aging housing stock and record high property values. However, challenges including inflation, a shortage of skilled labor, and industry fragmentation could hurt the ability to meet demand. Pro Remodeler has more.

High Point Agenda Set: The High Point Market Authority has revealed its programming and events for its spring market, April 26 to 28, and special pop-up venue, The Point, a daily lounge and eatery operating from April 25 to 29 in High Point, NC. Programming includes guided showroom tours, trend presentations, business strategies, and more. KBB has the details.

New Home Sales Rise: Sales of new single-family homes returned to positive territory in February, as they rose 1.8 percent from January, and were up 5.1 percent from February 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This follows a 10.5 percent slide in January from December. Slightly lower median and average sales prices, as well as a dip in mortgage rates, contributed to the boost. Learn more here.

By Crystal Watts

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.