These showstoppers highlighted the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility. 

By Nicholas Tamarin

At NKBA | KBIS 2025, held in Las Vegas from February 25-27, sustainability took center stage as the kitchen and bath industry showcased eco-friendly materials, recycled surfaces, water-efficient solutions, and energy-conscious appliances. Companies from across the globe demonstrated that sustainability and innovation can go hand-in-hand, offering products and installations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible. Here’s who did it best:

Kohler WasteLAB

LandShapes Tile with Daniel Arsham (Best of KBIS Sustainable Standout Gold)

With a texture inspired by sand deposits left behind by crashing waves, the Landshapes tile reflects a deep commitment to artistic craft and sustainability. It’s produced from nearly 100% recycled material poured around hand-layered patterns of torn paper and then fired at a soft incline to create subtle, eye-catching shifts in color. Produced in the Kohler WasteLAB using landfill-bound materials like pottery waste, glaze overspray, and cast iron slag from internal operations, this tile embraces Kohler’s commitment to sustainability and waste diversion.

Cosentino

Le Chic Bohème by Silestone XM (Best of KBIS Sustainable Standout Silver)

Continuing its legacy of sophisticated veined patterns, the Le Chic Bohème collection introduces four captivating new colors that add a touch of Parisian glamour and bohemian spirit to any space. Each color features intricate details, metallic accents, and dynamic veining, making them perfect for luxurious residential and commercial designs. 

As a part of the Silestone XM brand, Le Chic Bohème is manufactured using Cosentino’s sustainable, patented Hybriq+ technology, using 99%  reused water and 100% renewable energy, and incorporating a minimum of 20% recycled raw materials in its composition, with less than 10% of crystalline silica, distinguishing it as a low silica product within the category.

LG

LG emphasized space efficiency and electrification with their high-capacity, high-efficiency Zero themed appliances across four dedicated zones: Zero Clearance, Zero Gas, Zero Venting and Zero Inefficiency. Showcasing the benefits of electrification, the Zero Gas Zone highlighted a variety of electric kitchen and laundry appliances, including induction cooktops and ovens. The Zero Venting Zone also demonstrated LG’s eco-leadership with heat pump dryers that provide enhanced efficiency.

TOTO 

Since 1917, TOTO has been at the forefront of environmental stewardship, integrating sustainability into its core values for over a century. At KBIS 2025, TOTO illuminated its rich history of sustainability with a dynamic, immersive booth experience highlighting its long-standing commitment to water conservation, eco-friendly innovation, and responsible manufacturing.

The booth of Japan’s masters of toilet and bidet design touted its green bonafides by showcasing the latest water-saving innovations and environmentally conscious designs and hosting expert panel discussions on sustainability and the future of the plumbing industry—including one with NKBA | KBIS’s very own Global President and CEO Bill Darcy.

Laminam 

The eco-conscious ceramic manufacturer launched the world’s thinnest large-format slab, the twO Series, at this year’s KBIS. The 2mm ultra-thin porcelain slab is flexible, allowing for both flat and curved applications. It is also sustainable, being composed of up to 60% recycled natural minerals, making it a great choice for LEED projects.

“KBIS is the ideal platform for Laminam to officially launch some of the most groundbreaking innovations in the surface industry in North America,” said Philip Eeles, President and CEO of Laminam North America. “From our beautiful new color additions to the debut of the world’s thinnest large-format slab series, twO by Laminam, we’re reaffirming our commitment to R&D by designing surfaces that not only elevate aesthetic appeal but also embody the durability and sustainability Laminam is known for.”

Brazil 

Soccer isn’t the only thing they do well! South America’s largest country’s commitment to sustainability was one of the main highlights of its participation in KBIS. The “It’s Natural—Brazilian Natural Stone” booth featured an innovative project that combined design, technology, and environmental responsibility with a countertop made of quartzite that was created by reusing natural leftovers from the cutting of stone blocks normally discarded.

The aim was to connect Brazilian natural stones with designers and architects in the North American market, highlighting the value of sustainability and innovation in global design. To bring this concept to life, the space was designed by the Uruguayan design firm La Agencia to showcase Brazil’s geodiversity and the creative strength that characterizes the Brazilian natural stone industry.

For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page. 

Our most recent Kitchen and Bath Trend reports show us the way to the intersection of wellness and eco-consciousness

By Nicholas Tamarin

The recent NKBA 2025 Kitchen and Bath Trend reports provide insight into the developments shaping the future of kitchens and baths. According to that research, wellness is a key focus, while widespread adoption of sustainability in these spaces is still nascent. Benefits of incorporating eco-conscious design into projects can include:

• Reduction of landfill waste

• Lowering demand for virgin resources

• Qualifications for LEED, Well, and other green building certifications

• Recycled and repurposed materials offer unique patina, textures, aesthetics, and history

The Wellness Kitchen concept is prominent in kitchens, emphasizing natural light, quality lighting, connection to the outdoors, healthy eating and cooking, air and water quality, and social interaction. Making kitchens social and welcoming spaces is a priority, with 63 percent of respondents citing this as a popular design theme. Additionally, 72 percent of homeowners desire a greater connection between their kitchen and the outdoors.

Bathrooms are evolving into health and wellness centers, with a focus on creating spa-like retreats. The “RE” room concept emphasizes relaxation, retreat, recharge, renewal, recovery, and reinvigoration. Natural colors and materials are gaining popularity. Key bath trends also include easy-to-maintain design and materials, with homeowners seeking minimal upkeep in flooring, countertops, sinks, and showers. 

These signals dovetail with emerging sustainable developments such as electric radiant flooring that eliminates heat loss through ductwork, surfaces made from earth-friendly VOC-free materials, and water sustainability features, including those that meet EPA WaterSense standards such as bath sinks that drain into toilet tanks for flushing and alternative energy-efficient water heaters. Also noted are options including countertops and cabinetry made from recycled materials, formaldehyde-free MDF, NAUF plywood and particleboard cabinetry, and those that are FSC-certified. Popular types of recycled flooring and surfaces include the following:

• Reclaimed Wood: Sourced from old barns, factories, and warehouses—it adds character and history to any space.

• Recycled Rubber: Often made from used tires, it’s durable, slip-resistant, and perfect for high-traffic areas or home gyms.

• Recycled Glass Tiles: Made from post-consumer glass, these tiles offer a sleek, colorful option for kitchens and bathrooms.

• Recycled Carpet: Produced using plastic bottles (PET) or reclaimed nylon, offering soft, sustainable comfort.

• Recycled Cork: Harvested from wine stoppers or manufacturing byproducts, it’s resilient, naturally antimicrobial, and sound-absorbing.

For more on the hottest industry trends, check out our full reports here. Further insights into sustainable kitchen and bath design can be found on NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.

By Donna Heiderstadt

An informative discussion about the top features of European kitchen furniture — including modular design and eco-friendliness — took place at KBIS 2025 on Feb. 25 as part of the Native Trails-sponsored Sustainability track at NEXTStage. The session, titled European Kitchen Furniture – Ecodesign for Sustainable Products: What It Is, Why It Matters and How It’s Different, was moderated by Ken Busch, Publisher of Material Intelligence, and featured four panelists: Jeremy Parcels, Principal Designer at Lakewood, CO-based Parcels Design Studio, LLC; Alina Selbach, Head of Business for TUV Rheinland LGA Products GmbH; Dwayne Lusk, Principal of Lancaster, TX-based Kitchen Logistics; and Jan Kurth, CEO of the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM). Here are some highlights of the discussion.

Where It All Began and Where & How It’s Made

As moderator, Busch kicked off the discussion by noting that as a journalist covering the industry in the 1980s he remembers asking whether the European kitchen would ever come to America. “Forty years later, it’s almost a reality,” he noted. Then he introduced Kurth, who offered a primer on the origins of German kitchen design, showing images of the “efficiently organized” circa-1926 Frankfurter Küche, the first handle-less kitchen cabinetry of the 1960s, and the sleek, modern European kitchen that is the center of the home.

Kurth said the kitchen industry in Europe totals $20 billion euros, with kitchen production by country dominated by Germany (40 percent) and Italy (21 percent), with Spain, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Poland, and Belgium all in the 2-to-7-percent range.

He said the kitchen industry in Europe is highly data-driven and circular, with both retail and direct-to-consumer distribution and a focus on refurbishment/remanufacturing that involves upcycling, upgrading, and reusing.

The industry uses sophisticated robotics and machinery for high-volume, efficient production that maintains a high quality standard. There is a “digital product passport” that follows every product through the process. That quality, Kurth said, also extends to installation.

As far as sustainability, manufacturers source wood from sustainable forests and make products designed to be long-lasting.

Busch added that since “ecodesign” was in the session’s title, he wanted to point out that wood is 50 percent naturally captured carbon. He said the eco-focus of European manufacturing process also ties to the issue of indoor air quality, a rising concern for wellness focused consumers.

Quality Control and Modular Design

Selbach joined the conversation to discuss her company’s role more than 150-year history in ensuring that consumer products meet the standard for quality and safety. She said that TUV Rheinland LGA Products works with manufacturers in developing product and testing components “We start ensuring the safety and quality of products during sourcing and production,” she explained.

Lusk began his remarks by explaining that he started his company to bring European kitchens to the U.S., specifically to Texas , and Parcels noted that he has been designing with European kitchen furniture for the past 16 years.

A key element of these products’ appeal, moderator Busch noted, is their modular design that is very systematic for efficiency — cabinets are easy to design, install, use, and uninstall.

Selbach added that with the expansion of the ecodesign movement, manufacturers are also incorporating repairable hinges. When something breaks, she says, “consumers don’t throw it away because they can repair it instead with replacement parts.” She said that manufacturers are coming to her in the design and testing phase for evaluation of new products and their parts for durability and safety.

For Lusk, the appeal of European kitchen furniture/cabinetry is that the products are “very systematic and very well thought out.” This results in cabinets that are easy to install and easy to update functionality wise, he said.

Kurth added that these cabinets’ modular design with fixed dimensions and quality construction make it “easy to replace specific components without having to change the whole kitchen.”

Parcels concurred, noting that the cabinets he works with feature detachable fronts. “It’s easy to update the look without having to replace every single box,” he said. Parcels also cited the fact that lower cabinets feature adjustable legs, which can accommodate different heights. “These are products that improve the quality of home life through function.”

Moderator Busch wrapped up the session by lauding European kitchen furniture manufacturers for offering “sustainable systems in products that are stream-lined and energy efficient.”

VFTI On Demand sessions show how to sell sustainability to clients.

By Nicholas Tamarin

NKBA | KBIS’s Voices from the Industry (VFTI) conference, presented by Floor & Decor, provides attendees with an invaluable opportunity for professional development and career growth with more than 70 sessions across six learning tracks from K&B trends to business management. The CEU sessions were held in the Las Vegas Convention Center during KBIS 2025–but now 55 of the top sessions are available virtually on demand through the end of 2025 to any attendee registered for the VFTI conference by logging in with the email used during your KBIS registration. On-demand content is also available for purchase by anyone who didn’t attend KBIS on NKBA.org. 

For April Sustainability Month, we chose the VFTI On Demand sessions that show NKBA | KBIS designers how to best sell sustainability to clients by providing the most effective strategies for communicating the benefits of green choices. Let’s take a look:

Revolutionizing Kitchen Renovation and Embracing Circularity in the Age of Sustainability and Innovation

Jim Gurulé, President & Founder, Bay West Sales & Innovation

Sustainability is not a passing trend— it’s here to stay. The convergence of environmentally conscious homeowners changing government regulations regarding sustainability and the impact kitchen renovation projects have on our environment are a significant threat to the current kitchen renovation business. Explore how kitchen renovation professionals (designers, architects, contractors, project managers, suppliers and trade associations) can revolutionize kitchen renovation by ditching the old linear economy (buy, use, dispose) and embracing a circular economy.

This presentation provides real-time data about current market dynamics, existing challenges, and actionable steps and solutions to adopt circular economy principles into your business. A key deliverable of the workshop will be a thorough education about how the deconstruction and donation process for existing kitchen components works and the impact it can have on client experiences and profitability. Participants will learn how the emergence of new technologies and innovations makes this donation process easier and more streamlined. As a kitchen renovation domain expert, inventor, and 5-time patent-holder, Jim Gurulé will share his experiences and the opportunity to combine innovation with the sustainability options available today to make this transition.

Digging Deep Into Sustainability

Sandy Campbell, Designer, Entero Design LLC, and Sienna Hawkins, Designer, Beyond the Surface

Join us as industry leaders in construction to explore the true meaning of sustainability and navigate the complexities of greenwashing. This session offers insights into identifying greenwashing tactics, understanding various sustainable certifications, and utilizing the Lifecycle Assessment methodology to assess the environmental impacts of building materials. Learn how to effectively introduce sustainability to clients and establish internal standards within your company. Gain the knowledge to lead with integrity and drive positive change in the construction industry.

Smart Technology for Aging in Place: Sustainability & Universal Design

Janet Engel, Owner, Home Designs for Life, Ltd, Co.

Join Engel for an insightful session exploring how smart technology and sustainable practices intersect with aging in place. As an occupational therapist and certified Aging in Place specialist, she’ll share innovative solutions that empower older adults to live independently while promoting environmental responsibility.

Discover the latest in smart home technology, from voice-controlled appliances to energy-efficient systems designed to enhance accessibility, safety, and comfort. Learn practical applications that simplify daily routines and reduce energy consumption while minimizing fall risks.

Explore the principles of universal design and sustainable materials, creating inclusive spaces that are adaptable to evolving needs over time. Gain actionable strategies for designing homes that prioritize accessibility, function, and environmental stewardship, ensuring seamless aging in place.

Click here to access VFTI On Demand. For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.

Let’s examine the impact of FSC-certified wood, recycled metal, and sustainable finishes on kitchen and bath design.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As the demand for sustainable home solutions grows, the cabinetry and hardware industry is experiencing a transformation driven by eco-friendly materials and practices. Kitchen and bath consumers are prioritizing sustainability—without sacrificing style and durability—and manufacturers are increasingly adopting eco-conscious practices in order for the industry to provide innovative, environmentally responsible solutions that meet the demands of modern living. Whether through the use of FSC-certified wood, recycled metals, or eco-friendly finishes, the shift toward sustainability is not just a trend, it’s a necessary evolution in home design. 

By making conscious choices today, homeowners and designers can play a vital role in fostering a greener, more sustainable future for cabinetry and hardware. Here are the details on how the movement toward reclaimed, recycled, and renewable materials is shaping the industry:

FSC-Certified Wood: A Responsible Choice

One of the most impactful changes in cabinetry design is the shift toward FSC-certified wood. The Forest Stewardship Council ensures that wood products come from responsibly managed forests, promoting biodiversity and preventing deforestation. Homeowners opting for FSC-certified cabinetry can be confident that their choices contribute to environmental conservation while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Recycled Metal: Durable and Sustainable

Cabinet hardware, including handles, knobs, and hinges, is also evolving with sustainability in mind. Recycled metal—such as aluminum, brass, and stainless steel—reduces the need for virgin materials, lowering energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with mining and production. Manufacturers are embracing innovative methods to repurpose scrap metal into high-quality hardware that enhances modern and traditional cabinetry alike.

Sustainable Finishes: Low-VOC and Water-Based Options

Traditional finishes and stains often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor air pollution and environmental harm. Today, eco-conscious consumers can choose from low-VOC and water-based finishes, which provide the same aesthetic appeal and protection while being safer for both people and the planet. These finishes ensure cabinetry longevity while minimizing toxic emissions in homes.

For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.

NKBA | KBIS gives the low down on what’s up with the standards shaping the future.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As sustainability becomes a driving force in home design, professionals in the kitchen and bath industry must stay informed about the key certifications shaping the future. Programs like LEED, WELL, and other sustainability standards are setting benchmarks for environmentally responsible, health-conscious design choices.

By incorporating these principles into design and product selection, professionals can create spaces that are not only stylish and functional but also healthier and more environmentally responsible, driving positive change in sustainable design and providing clients with kitchens and bathrooms that support well-being and environmental stewardship. Let’s take a look:

LEED Certification: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

One of the most recognized sustainability standards, LEED focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-friendly materials. Kitchen and bath professionals can incorporate LEED principles by selecting Energy Star-certified appliances, using low-VOC finishes and adhesives, and integrating water-saving fixtures like low-flow faucets and high-efficiency toilets.

WELL Certification: Prioritizing Human Health and Wellness

Unlike LEED, which emphasizes environmental impact, WELL Certification focuses on health and well-being in built environments. “Health begins at home, because that’s where we spend most of our lives,” says Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO of the International WELL Building Institute. “Kitchens and bathrooms, in particular, offer a powerful opportunity to reimagine the ways in which we nourish ourselves and our families and practice daily self-care.” 

WELL principles include ensuring optimal air and water quality, utilizing non-toxic materials, and enhancing natural and artificial lighting designs to improve well-being. IWBI introduced the WELL for Residential framework in 2024, a globally applicable standard for homes prioritizing well-being. As Hodgdon notes, the framework includes evidence-based strategies across 10 concepts: Air, Water, Nourishment, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Light, Sound, Materials, Mind, and Community.

Other Key Sustainability Certifications

Beyond LEED and WELL, several other certifications guide sustainable kitchen and bath design: WaterSense (EPA), GreenGuard, Cradle to Cradle, and FSC Certification. For kitchen and bath professionals, understanding and applying these sustainability certifications is essential for meeting growing consumer demand, enhancing home efficiency and long-term value, and staying ahead of industry regulations and green building trends.

For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.

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.

Join us as we explore induction cooking, Energy Star-certified refrigerators, and smart ovens.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As sustainability becomes a priority in modern home design, energy-efficient appliances are revolutionizing kitchen spaces. From reducing carbon footprints to lowering utility costs, these appliances contribute significantly to eco-friendly living. Key innovations such as induction cooking, Energy Star-certified refrigerators, and smart ovens are leading the way in sustainable kitchen design. Let’s take a closer look at the details of each.

Induction Cooking: Precision & Efficiency

Induction cooktops are transforming the way we cook by offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional gas and electric stoves. Unlike conventional cooking methods, induction technology uses electromagnetic energy to directly heat cookware, minimizing heat loss and reducing energy consumption. 

Benefits include:

• Faster cooking times due to direct heat transfer
• Improved safety, as induction surfaces remain cool to the touch
• Greater energy efficiency, reducing household electricity usage
• Enhanced indoor air quality by eliminating gas emissions

Energy Star-Certified Refrigerators: Reducing Consumption

Refrigerators are among the highest energy-consuming appliances in a home. Energy Star-certified models use advanced technology to optimize cooling while consuming significantly less electricity. These models offer:

• Enhanced insulation and temperature control to prevent energy waste
• High-efficiency compressors that minimize power consumption
• Smart sensors that adjust cooling based on usage patterns
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a lower carbon footprint

Smart Ovens: Optimized Cooking for Sustainability

Smart ovens integrate AI and connectivity features to improve cooking efficiency and reduce energy use. These appliances offer:

• Precise temperature control, ensuring minimal energy waste
• Remote monitoring via smartphone apps, allowing users to manage cooking from anywhere
• Automated cooking programs, adjusting heat settings based on dish type
• Self-cleaning cycles that use steam instead of harsh chemicals, promoting eco-friendly maintenance

The Future of Sustainable Kitchens

Energy-efficient appliances play a crucial role in reducing household energy consumption and environmental impact. As technology advances, smart integration and improved efficiency will continue shaping the kitchens of the future. By making thoughtful appliance choices, we can lower energy costs, minimize waste, and contribute to a greener planet—one kitchen at a time.

For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.

Find out the eco-conscious way to clad your kitchen and bath projects.

By Nicholas Tamarin

As sustainability takes center stage in home and commercial design, the tile industry is evolving with eco-friendly solutions that blend aesthetics with environmental responsibility. Leading brands such as Daltile, Kohler, and Laminam are at the forefront of this movement, offering innovative flooring and wall solutions that prioritize sustainability without compromising quality. Whether through recycled content, eco-friendly manufacturing, or low-impact finishes, new standards in flooring and wall solutions are paving the way for a more sustainable future in interior and architectural design. By making informed choices today, designers, architects, and homeowners can embrace tile solutions that not only enhance spaces but also contribute to a healthier planet.

Eco-Friendly Tile Materials

One of the most significant advancements in sustainable tile production is the use of recycled and natural materials. Many manufacturers now incorporate post-consumer and post-industrial recycled content into their tiles, reducing waste and conserving raw materials.

• Daltile offers collections made with high percentages of recycled materials, ensuring durability while minimizing environmental impact.
• Kohler integrates sustainability into its WasteLAB tile production by repurposing industrial byproducts to create unique, resilient surfaces.
• Laminam, known for its ultra-thin porcelain slabs, uses eco-conscious manufacturing processes that minimize waste and energy consumption.

Energy-Efficient Production & Certifications

Sustainable tile solutions go beyond material selection; they also focus on energy-efficient production methods. Many leading tile brands have adopted green manufacturing practices, such as using solar or wind energy, recycling water, and reducing emissions. Certifications such as U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating, GreenGuard Certification, and Cradle to Cradle Certification help consumers identify products that meet stringent environmental standards. By choosing certified tiles, homeowners and businesses can contribute to greener building projects while ensuring superior quality and performance.

Low-VOC & Non-Toxic Finishes

Tiles with low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) finishes are gaining popularity due to their positive impact on indoor air quality. Traditional flooring and wall treatments can emit harmful chemicals, but many sustainable tile options use non-toxic glazes and sealants to ensure a healthier living environment.

For more insights on sustainable kitchen and bath design, visit NKBA’s Sustainability Month page.