The industry-leading organizations announce a long-term partnership designed to enhance service to the design community through custom experiences, brand connections and industry education.

Bethlehem, PA – (May 14, 2025) –The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA | KBIS), the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry and owner of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), today announced a strategic alliance with the High Point Market Authority (HPMA), the official sponsor and organizer of High Point Market, the world’s largest home furnishings trade show held every April and October in High Point, N.C. This partnership marks a convergence of the kitchen and bath sector with the furnishings industry, expanding both organizations’ influence among the design community and growing focus on the whole home. 

“Our partnership with High Point Market Authority represents a powerful alignment between two organizations committed to inspiring, empowering, and supporting the interior design community,” said Bill Darcy, Global President and CEO of NKBA | KBIS. “At NKBA, we’ve seen kitchen and bath design trends expand their influence across the entire home, driving new ideas and inspiration for the broader interiors industry. Through this alliance with High Point Market Authority, we’re excited to share NKBA’s unique brand experiences, educational resources, and foster business-driving connections that add value to the design community as a whole.”

“High Point Market is the platform by which the future of our industry is tested, tried, and solidified. It’s where the principals connect and the changemakers push. It is a biannual convergence of the best and brightest in our industry,” said Tammy Covington, President and CEO of High Point Market Authority. “The conversations that happen here lay the groundwork for the years ahead. There have always been elements of kitchen and bath here in High Point, but this alliance with NKBA will allow us to bring it forward, to highlight it, and to serve the industry in new and exciting ways.”

The NKBA’s first presence at High Point Market was in 2018 when they offered members a day and a half long event blending Market tours with conference-style education. They returned again last October with “The Tent,” which played host to educational programming led by kitchen and bath designers and manufacturers. In partnership with HPMA, the two united in NKBA’s mission to deliver cutting-edge trend analysis, valuable educational resources, and innovative product showcases—all aimed at empowering designers and their businesses to thrive. Most recently at Spring Market, NKBA hosted a panel at The Point with leading designers Michel Smith Boyd and Sharon Sherman discussing emerging trends in kitchen and bath design. As the kitchen opens up to the whole home and bath spaces expand, sharing industry knowledge is critical to supporting designers both well-versed in and new to kitchen and bath design. 

“As the owner of an interdisciplinary design firm, I understand the importance of integrating kitchen and bath into the High Point conversation,” said Christi Barbour, Chair of the High Point Market Authority’s Board of Directors and founder and partner of Barbour Spangle Design. “Designers have long looked to High Point for education, inspiration, and innovative products. Having NKBA here to spotlight the opportunities in the kitchen and bath space—and to connect designers with new brands and partners—is both exciting and a natural evolution of what High Point offers to our design community.”

Kerrie Kelly, Vice Chair of the Board for NKBA and CEO + Creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studio added, “Designers today are shaping experiences across the entire home, and that holistic view demands collaboration between all facets of the industry. NKBA’s partnership with High Point Market Authority underscores the Association’s commitment to helping designers navigate new opportunities in kitchen, bath, and beyond — bringing inspiration, innovation, and valuable connections to the forefront at every turn.”

By solidifying a long term partnership, NKBA and HPMA combine forces for the overall success of the design industry. Together, they offer unique educational programs, inspire innovation, and deliver on the goal to ensure support for the design community throughout the whole home. As part of the partnership, NKBA will offer its valuable research and expertise to the design community at High Point Market with an expanded presence at Fall Market. 

“We’re proud to bring our partnership with High Point Market Authority to life at the upcoming Fall Market to highlight new and exciting brands through elevated, immersive experiences,” said Heather Shannon, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications, NKBA | KBIS. “I look forward to reconnecting with and reaching new designers through our activations that showcase the latest innovations and inspiration for the home, rooted in kitchen and bath, but expanding well beyond.”

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About NKBA | KBIS

NKBA | KBIS is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA has informed, educated and supported the industry since the association was founded in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through community, professional certification and learning, and events. For more information, go to NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

About the High Point Market Authority

The High Point Market Authority is the official sponsor and organizer of the High Point Market in High Point, N.C. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style, and price point, and attracting tens of thousands of visitors from more than 100 countries twice each year, High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry. Find High Point Market online at highpointmarket.org, and follow on social media using the hashtag #HPMKT.

New Senior-Level Promotions Reflect Strategic Focus on Business Development, Operations, and Global Marketing

Bethlehem, PA – January 14, 2025 — The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the authority on the residential kitchen and bath industry and owners of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), is proud to announce three significant leadership appointments as part of its strategic vision to foster innovation, expand globally, and elevate KBIS, the industry’s premier trade show.

Geraldine Morrison, a seasoned business leader and industry expert, has been appointed Chief Partnerships Officer, Domestic & Global Brands. With a proven track record in general management and P&L leadership at top-tier companies like Samsung, Lixil, Phillips, and Sprint, Geraldine brings extensive expertise to this critical role. She holds an MBA in Marketing and a Mini-MBA in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers University. Geraldine will focus on global integration and business growth, ensuring NKBA continues to strengthen its position as the central hub for the industry.

In 2024, Deb Webb assumed the role of Executive Vice President, Operations and KBIS, overseeing the management and execution of KBIS and all NKBA domestic and global events, including the strategic partnership with KBIS co-location partner, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) with the International Builders Show (IBS) for Design and Construction Week. With a strong commitment to customer-centric operations and a deep understanding of event management, Deb is dedicated to exceeding expectations. Her expertise ensures NKBA continues to deliver exceptional experiences across all platforms and her operational acumen ensures Association events set the standard for the industry. Prior to joining NKBA, Deb was SVP of Event Operations with Emerald, NKBA’s KBIS show management partner.

Heather Shannon joined NKBA as the Senior Director of Marketing. In 2024 she was promoted to Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth to help support the organization’s focus on international relations. The addition of Geraldine to the Leadership Team, focusing on global integration and business growth, has now allowed Heather to fully concentrate her efforts as the Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications. In this role Heather will lead both global and domestic marketing efforts, leveraging her vast experience, most recently from her leadership position at longtime NKBA member Perlick, to enhance brand visibility and amplify NKBA’s impact across the industry.

“These appointments reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence and growth,” said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO of NKBA. “This is a pivotal moment for NKBA. Our industry is evolving rapidly, and with this team, we are well-positioned to drive success for our members, partners, and the broader residential design community. I am excited for what lies ahead as we build on our legacy while looking toward the future.”

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About the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)

NKBA is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA has informed, educated, and supported the industry since the association was founded in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead, and empower the kitchen and bath industry through community, professional certification, and learning and events. For more information, go to NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

“The Tent” will feature a three-day celebration of the art of design with celebrity speakers, designer workshops, live art and culinary experiences.

Bethlehem, PA– (October 2, 2024)–The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA | KBIS), the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry representing nearly 55,000 North American kitchen and bath industry professionals, will host a first-of-its-kind experience in “The Tent” at High Point Market in October. Activations within “The Tent” will take place Saturday, October 26 through Monday, October 28 in the Hamilton Wrenn Design District on Fred Alexander Place. Bringing the world of kitchen and bath to the bi-annual furniture market, NKBA gives designers, retailers, and manufacturers an opportunity to learn about the organization and how its commitment to the interiors industry extends beyond the kitchen and bath.

Exhibiting at High Point Market for the first time, the NKBA | KBIS Design Experience features interactive programming, with hands-on experiences featuring chefs, local artists, and designers, including the NKBA Design Council: Caleb Anderson, Thom Filicia, Celerie Kemble, and Michel Smith Boyd. The experience provides a glimpse into NKBA’s offerings and signature KBIS event, bridging the gap between the two industry-leading trade shows.

“Our inaugural partnership with the High Point Market Authority marks a dynamic convergence of the kitchen and bath sector with the broader furniture industry, expanding our influence within the design community,” says Bill Darcy, Global President and CEO of NKBA | KBIS. “By joining forces, we are united in our mission to deliver cutting-edge trend analysis, valuable educational resources, and innovative product showcases—all aimed at empowering designers and their businesses to thrive.”

Tammy Covington Nagem, President and CEO of High Point Market Authority added, “We are thrilled to welcome NKBA to High Point Market and excited to see how their expertise in the kitchen and bath industry will enrich the overall experience for our attendees. NKBA’s presence highlights the growing synergy between interior design and functional living spaces, and we look forward to the unique insights and innovations they will bring to this year’s market.”

Top home and design brands will bring “The Tent” to life through experiential sponsorships that include: live culinary demonstrations with Chef Justin Cullimore by SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite; exploring the intersection of residential and commercial design with Anderson Tuftex | Shaw Floors; Cabinet of Curiosities presented by Fabuwood; discussing design trends beyond style with Bed Bath & Beyond Professional; and the latest innovative products on display from Hettich and Unform Studio.

Each day offers an opportunity to engage with leading kitchen and bath manufacturers, hear from trendsetting designers and design experts, and win exciting giveaways. The full schedule includes:

Saturday, October 26, 10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

All Day Artistry by Manuel Santelices, Live DJ, and tastings with Chef Justin Cullimore presented by Signature Kitchen Suite

11:30 a.m. How the Kitchen is Shaping Design with Jennifer Hutton of Grau Building, Paula Kennedy, CKD, Timeless Kitchen Design LLC, Sharon Sherman, CKD, Thyme & Place Design, and Donille Perrone of Signature Kitchen Suite

1:30 p.m. Residential Meets Commercial with John Stephens, Anderson Tuftex, Kenny Michael, Shaw Floors, and Aliya Khan, Marriott International

3:00 p.m. In Conversation With: Barry Dixon + Arianne Bellizaire moderated by Karen Carroll, Editorial Director, FLOWER Magazine

4:00 p.m. Happy Hour: Welcome cocktails and light bites to kick off a fun-filled Market

Sunday, October 27, 10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

All Day Artistry by Manuel Santelices, Live DJ, and tastings with Chef Justin Cullimore, presented by Signature Kitchen Suite

12:15 p.m. Beyond Style: Designing for the Senses, Psychology, Color Perception, and Biophilia with Amber Dunford, Style Director, Bed Bath & Beyond Professional

1:00 p.m. A Toast to Market with Bill Darcy, Global President + CEO, NKBA | KBIS, presented by Fabuwood

1:15 p.m. Wellness + Home: Transformative Roadmaps for Design with Rachel Hodgdon, President + CEO, WELL | IWBI

2:00 p.m. In Conversation With: Clodagh, moderated by Cindy Allen, Editor-in-Chief, Interior Design

3:30 p.m. In Conversation With: Thom Filicia, NKBA Design Council, moderated by Cindy Allen, Editor-in-Chief, Interior Design

4:00 p.m. In Conversation With: Caleb Anderson, NKBA Design Council, moderated by Cindy Allen, Editor-in-Chief, Interior Design

4:30 p.m. Happy Hour: Afternoon cocktails and light bites

Monday, October 28 | 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

All Day Artistry by Manuel Santelices, Live DJ, and tastings with Chef Justin Cullimore, presented by Signature Kitchen Suite

10:30 a.m. In Conversation With: Celerie Kemble, NKBA Design Council, moderated by Cindy Allen, Editor-in-Chief, Interior Design

11:15 a.m. In Conversation With: Michel Smith Boyd, NKBA Design Council, moderated by Cindy Allen, Editor-in-Chief, Interior Design

2:00 p.m. The Tent Farewell: Toast to a fabulous weekend with mimosas and light bites

Visit HighPointMarket.org/NKBA to learn more and access a detailed schedule of events.

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About NKBA | KBIS

NKBA| KBIS is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA has informed, educated and supported the industry since the association was founded in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through community, professional certification and learning, and events. For more information, go to NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

About the High Point Market Authority

The High Point Market Authority is the official sponsor and organizer of the High Point Market in High Point, N.C. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style, and price point, and attracting tens of thousands of visitors from more than 100 countries twice each year, High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry. Find High Point Market online at highpointmarket.org, and follow on social media using the hashtag #HPMKT.

Thom Filicia, Michel Smith Boyd, Caleb Anderson and Celerie Kemble Head Inaugural Program

Bethlehem, PA – (February 5, 2024) —  NKBA | KBIS, the authority on the residential kitchen and bath industry and owners of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), will officially launch its first-ever NKBA Design Council this February, at KBIS 2024 in Las Vegas. Featuring industry-leading designers Thom Filicia, Michel Smith Boyd, Caleb Anderson, and Celerie Kemble, the program teams up with illustrious voices to promote the benefits of NKBA | KBIS membership to the nation’s design community. 

NKBA | KBIS is the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry, providing tools, research, certification, and events to thousands of industry professionals. The addition of the Design Council offers new perspectives to achieve the association’s mission of raising the level of industry professionalism by inspiring, leading and empowering each member of the kitchen and bath community. 

“We excited to introduce our first-ever Design Council, with these amazing and talented designers who will help us continue to promote our association, our community and KBIS,“ said Bill Darcy, Global President & CEO of NKBA | KBIS. “Leveraging the knowledge of these remarkable designers, we will provide our members with new and valuable insights to support their own professional growth and business success.”

Together, Anderson, Boyd, Filicia and Kemble will be introduced at KBIS 2024 in Las Vegas, where they will tour the show, trend-spotting new debuts and innovations from global kitchen and bath manufacturers and documenting their experience for their social audience. Additionally, the council will host a panel discussion moderated by Interior Design Editor-In-Chief, Cindy Allen at the NKBA Booth (#N2539) on Wednesday, February 28 from 1:30-2:00 p.m. PT. Beyond KBIS, the Design Council will serve as an expert resource for NKBA throughout the year, including through NKBA trend reports and top industry events such as High Point Market.

2024 NKBA DESIGN COUNCIL

Thom Filicia 

Thom Filicia has emerged as one of today’s most influential and respected interior and product designers. His projects include residential, hospitality and commercial interiors all over the world with clients ranging from Tina Fey, to Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, David & Iman Bowie, and Delta Airlines. Gaining fame on the Emmy-winning “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy”, Style Network, HGTV, and most recently Bravo’s Get A Room with Carson & Thom, he is a best-selling author and has been praised as a top designer and international tastemaker. He is also the driving force behind the Thom Filicia Home Collection, which includes furniture, artwork, bedding, textiles, wallcovering, rugs, lighting, accessories and more, and has a flagship showroom, called Sedgwick & Brattle, at The New York Design Center. 

Michel Smith Boyd

Michel Smith Boyd is an American interior designer and star of the hit shows, HGTV’s Luxe for Less, Rock the Block, and Barbie Dream House Challenge as well as Bravo’s Buying it Blind. His Atlanta based firm, Smith Boyd Interiors, is known for Michel’s signature, sumptuous style. Renowned for its distinctive, cultivated, and soulful vibe Michel’s work has received countless accolades including being recognized as one of the Top 10 African American Designers in the country and most recently named The Atlantan’s “Top 50 Most Powerful People.” Boyd prides himself on creating spaces that his clients not only adore but also delight in calling home. Michel’s breadth of influence includes residential and commercial interior design as well as bespoke collections of luxe rugs, artisan case-goods, bold lustrous paintings, and a new collection of fragrances curated for home. His signature style masterfully juxtaposes masculine and feminine sophistication and he seamlessly blends it all under one roof to set the perfect mood.

Caleb Anderson

Caleb Anderson is a principal at award-winning design firm Drake/Anderson and the co-founder of Well-Designed, a new venture committed to sharing resources and tools to support a happier, healthier and more harmonious design community through meaningful shared experiences. Along with his dedication to creating and fostering

more opportunities for authentic connection and sustainable work practices among his peers, Anderson is using his design expertise to heighten awareness within the community around healthy materials, sustainability and social consciousness.

Celerie Kemble 

Celerie Kemble’s priority is always to express the personality and sentiment of her clients through gracious interiors. Never one to dismiss nuance or drama, Celerie seamlessly engages both forces to create dynamic and comfortable rooms. Kemble Interiors is a multi-generational firm with over 50 years of experience designing hotels, country clubs, and residential spaces, and has offices in both New York and Palm Beach. Celerie received a B.A. in English from Harvard and lives in New York City with her three children. Her current licensed product lines include fabrics, trims and wallpaper for Schumacher, lighting and occasional furniture with Arteriors, outdoor furniture with Lane Venture, and in 2023 she launched a line of case goods with Woodbridge Furniture and upholstery with Taylor King.

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About the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA | KBIS) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)

NKBA | KBIS is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With nearly 50,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry, NKBA | KBIS has informed, educated and supported the industry since the association was founded in 1963. NKBA | KBIS’s mission is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through community, professional certification and learning, and events.

For more information, go to NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522).

NKBA® and KBIS® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.