We recently spoke with designer Christina Cruz of Austin-based Christina Cruz Interiors about pivoting careers with purpose in our latest podcast.

Cruz originally followed a very different career path, spending 15 years as a digital media marketing executive before following in her interior designer-father’s footsteps. She explains the forces that motivated her to finally give into her passion and transition into the design profession.

Cruz talks about the specific challenges and the opportunities she encountered when making the pivot into design work.

She explains how her experience in digital media and marketing informs her approach to the day-to-day operation of a design business. Among the lessons learned she shares, the keystones of branding, storytelling and audience engagement were all shaped by her previous career.

In particular, Cruz’s background gave her insights into how to build her own design firm into a brand. She talks about her strategy for client acquisition as well as proven tactics for effective social media content and visibility.

The chat comes to a close with the designer offering some advice to professionals who are considering a career shift of their own into a creative field.

To hear the full conversation with Christina Cruz, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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How has your background influenced the way you’ve approached the design business?

Tiffany Skilling: My background in fashion shaped the foundation of how I see and create interiors. It taught me to approach design through the lens of storytelling and a modern interpretation of timeless style. In fashion, I learned the power of layering, how textiles, finishes and subtle details work together to create something deeply personal and lasting. That same sensibility naturally evolved into my design practice, where every space is crafted with intention and a focus on highly personalized detail.

I have always been drawn to the history and character of older homes, and I find beauty in the process of restoration. There is something incredibly meaningful about honoring a home’s past while introducing modern comfort and artistry. That appreciation has guided much of my work and continues to shape how I blend craftsmanship, texture and narrative in each project, focusing on the story of my client and their home.

What has been your biggest challenge in the design business – and how did you overcome it?

Tiffany Skilling: One of my biggest challenges in the design business has been balancing creativity with the realities of running a business. When I started, I was deeply focused on design, bringing beauty, history and soul into every space, but as our studio and retail concepts grew, I had to learn how to manage people, processes and finances without losing sight of the creative heart of what we do.

I overcame this by building a strong and talented team and learning to delegate. I surrounded myself with people who complement my strengths and share my passion for design and client experience. That allowed me to step back and focus on the big picture: creative direction, vision and nurturing our brand’s story, while trusting my team to carry it forward.

It is an ongoing balance, but it has taught me that leadership and creativity can coexist beautifully when you approach both with intention and authenticity.

What is the most important career lesson you’ve learned?

Tiffany Skilling: The most important career lesson I have learned is that success comes from staying true to your vision while remaining adaptable. In design, trends come and go, but authenticity endures. Early on, I felt pressure to follow what others were doing, but I learned that the projects that resonate most and the clients who connect most deeply come when you trust your instincts and design from a place of honesty and passion.

I have also learned the power of patience and persistence. Building a meaningful business takes time, and every challenge or setback has something valuable to teach you. When you lead with integrity, focus on relationships and pour your heart into the work, the rest follows naturally.

What advice would you give someone looking to enter the design business?

Tiffany Skilling: Every designer has a unique story of how and why they came into the industry with no two journeys being the same. I, personally, did not have a straightforward path to design and know that through hard work, creativity, continuing education, experience and strong relationships, a great career in the design industry is possible and worth the pursuit.

In your own home, what is your favorite kitchen or bath feature – and why?

Tiffany Skilling: My favorite feature is actually a combination in our primary bath. I absolutely love the Kohler Kathryn vanity legs in vibrant French gold paired with our custom vanity and the rectangular botanical study sink. The mix feels both timeless and unexpected; classic with a touch of personality. It brings such a beautiful balance of elegance and character to the space, and every time I walk in, my vanity makes me smile – especially the ladybug on the interior of the sink!

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“We are thrilled to have Vitoria International join the Construction Resources team,” said Mitch Hires, CEO Construction Resources. “Their commitment to serving the Charleston and Savannah designer and builder communities with high-quality, beautiful stone is unmatched. As CR enters Charleston with our new Design Center coming later in 2026, we couldn’t ask for a better stone & surfaces partner to support our Design Center collection, alongside our distinguished family of surfaces companies across the east coast – UMI Stone, Cancos Tile & Stone and Opustone. We look forward to Vitoria’s continued growth and success in serving their customers.” 

Leaders Adriene Araujo & Fabio Venturini and their team will remain with Construction Resources following the acquisition. 

“For over 20 years, Vitoria has passionately served Charleston and Savannah customers with stone we source from across the globe,” said Adriene Araujo, Vitoria International. “We are excited to become part of Construction Resources and look forward to taking care of our customers and delivering the same level of quality and service they expect.”

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That goal is closely connected to another long-term need: the ability to build and maintain the homes and infrastructure communities rely on.

That need is clear. The average home in the U.S. is now more than 40 years old, and the country remains millions of housing units short of current demand. Older homes require ongoing repair, replacement and modernization, while new construction depends on skilled professionals across plumbing, HVAC, lighting, water systems and other essential trades. Billions of dollars are being mobilized to upgrade and replace critical water infrastructure.

Meeting those needs depends on dedicated, skilled tradespeople.

Rising Demand Meets a Changing Workforce

Large-scale infrastructure and capital projects continue to grow, and industry partners are working to connect more young people to careers in the skilled trades. More than 80% of contractors report actively seeking skilled workers for housing and infrastructure projects, creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation entering the field.

With AI and automation reshaping the workforce, skilled trades careers offer another important path for the next generation. This path is rooted in technical expertise, hands-on problem-solving and work that directly supports the infrastructure and essential systems communities rely on every day. For young people seeking stability, long-term opportunity and real-world impact, the trades remain a meaningful and future-focused career choice.

Expanding Access Through Skilled Trades Education Programs

Ferguson strengthens the skilled trades pipeline by expanding access to education and experience. Melissa Hazelwood, Director of Social Impact, says, “A strong workforce starts with providing real opportunities, support and clear industry entry points.”

Programs like the Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson, provide schools with industry-grade tools and equipment that help students gain hands-on experience to the trades. This early access can spark interest and help students better understand future career opportunities (learn more about the latest grant recipients and program expansion here).

Ferguson supports this work through:

– Partnerships with organizations like ACE Mentor Program of America, Trades for Tomorrow, Tools & Tiaras and the mikeroweWORKS Foundation.
– Programs that provide funding, mentorship, job shadowing and access to modern tools and technology.
– Local initiatives, including community-based experiences, field trips and job-site visits.

These efforts come to life through early, hands-on exposure such as middle schoolers exploring career pathways and girls building confidence and technical ability. Local Ferguson branches also create experiential learning opportunities in their communities, including a recent Southern Idaho visit where students toured a Ferguson Ship Hub and saw firsthand how distribution supports construction behind the scenes.

The Long-Term Impact of Investing in Skilled Trades

When Ferguson invests in and support the skilled trades, it is making a generational investment in people, families and communities. That commitment extends far beyond any one person or project, supporting students as they discover a calling, apprentices as they gain confidence and graduate as they build a career.

These young professionals become the builders, mentors and leaders who will help shape the homes, businesses, infrastructure and essential systems communities rely on every day. Through continued investment in education, partnerships and hands-on experiences, Ferguson is helping create opportunity today – and building a stronger, more resilient future for generations.

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Founded in July 1906, Marsh Cabinets has operated continuously in High Point through generations of industry change, including global conflicts, economic downturns, housing cycles and evolving supply chains. Today, the company employs approximately 600 people and continues to manufacture its products in High Point, where materials are processed, doors are crafted and cabinets are assembled on-site. Marsh serves builders and dealers across the southeastern United States.  

Marsh remains an independently owned manufacturer in an industry that has seen significant consolidation — a distinction the company sees as both an advantage and a responsibility. 

“As you reach a milestone like 120 years, there’s a natural tendency to look back,” said David Littlefield, CEO of Marsh Cabinets. “What matters just as much is how you move forward. For us, that means continuing to do the things that have worked — taking a long-term view, supporting our people and partners — while making sure we stay relevant in a competitive, changing industry. Longevity only matters if you continue to earn it.” 

To mark the occasion, Marsh will host a week-long celebration from June 7-11 at its High Point campus. “Zero to 120” will serve as the theme, bringing together family members, employees, local partners and community members. 

Marsh Legacy Week: 120 Years in the Making  

Throughout the week, Marsh will host a series of events designed to honor its legacy while looking ahead to the future. Select days will highlight the company’s manufacturing operations, long-standing partnerships and deep ties to the High Point community. 

Wednesday, June 10 – Supplier & Partner Celebration

The company will welcome key suppliers and business partners for a dedicated day recognizing the collaboration that has supported its growth over the decades. The event will include a tour of Marsh’s manufacturing operations and highlight the role of strong supply chain relationships in delivering consistent, high-quality cabinetry.

Thursday, June 11 – Media & Community Day

Marsh will open its doors to media and community stakeholders for a behind-the-scenes look at its High Point operations, including a factory tour. Guests will experience firsthand the craftsmanship, materials and processes behind Marsh cabinetry, while learning more about the company’s history as one of High Point’s longest-operating manufacturers and its ongoing impact on the local economy. 

Additional events throughout the week will celebrate Marsh’s heritage and recognize the family members and employees who have played a vital role in building and sustaining the company over generations. 

“For us, this isn’t about celebrating a number,” Littlefield added. “It’s about recognizing the people who have built this company over time — employees, customers, suppliers and this community — and making sure we’re positioned to be just as strong for the next generation.” 

Over the past decade, Marsh has invested in strengthening its manufacturing capabilities, product offering and customer experience, with a focus on continued growth, particularly across the southeastern United States, where proximity, service and supply chain reliability remain critical. 

With a significant portion of its materials sourced domestically and operations rooted in North Carolina, Marsh continues to differentiate itself through accessibility, responsiveness and a commitment to long-term partnerships across its value chain.

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Above, from left to right: Jason Hensler, Immediate Past Chairman of the Board; Aaron Enfinger, CR, Incoming Chairman of the Board, The Cleary Company, Columbus, OH; Jonathan Kelly, NARI President 2026-2027, Fireplace & BarBQ Center, Inc., Overland Park, KS; Joe Bowen, President-Elect, Bowen Remodeling & Design, Crofton, MD; David Davison, MCR, MCKBR, Treasurer, Realty Restoration, LLC, Austin, Texas; James Kitchin, MCR, GCP Secretary, InterWorks, LLC, Portland, OR Photo: NARI

The Members of the NARI Executive Committee

Chairman of the Board: Aaron Enfinger, CR, The Cleary Company, Columbus, OH
President: Jonathan Kelly, Fireplace & BarBQ Center, Inc., Overland Park, KS
President-Elect: Joe Bowen, Bowen Remodeling & Design, Crofton, MD
Treasurer: David Davison, MCR, MCKBR, Realty Restoration, LLC, Austin, TX
Secretary: Jim Kitchin, MCR, GCP, InterWorks, LLC, Portland, OR

“The association is in a strong fiscal position, poised for growth and success in the future,” said Aaron Enfinger, CR, NARI’s Chairman of the Board. “NARI is optimistic about the upcoming year and the new leadership, which is prepared to take on the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Jonathan Kelly, incoming NARI President, emphasizing NARI’s momentum and collective strength, added, “Thanks to the strong financial foundation established by those who came before us, we are well-positioned to build on that success,” said Kelly. “With the addition of new board members and continued growth in our membership, we’re energized by the opportunities ahead and confident in our ability to take the organization to the next level.”

NARI is grateful to its executive committee as well as its 2026–2027 Board of Directors. Each board member also chairs one of NARI’s national committees or councils:

Bylaws & Ethics – Erin Dougherty CKBR, CRD, Distinctive Design + Build + Remodel, Charlotte, NC

Education – Jerry Ziemiecki, J3 Renovation & Design, Hamel, MN

Finance & Audit – Monica Lewis, MCR, CRD, UDCP, J.S. Brown Company, Inc., Columbus, OH

Government Affairs – Janine Starr, CRPM, J9 Homes, Austin, TX

Industry Partner Council – Michelle Link, The Home Depot Pro, Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

Marketing & Communications – Christopher Lalomia, The Trusted Toolbox, Norcross, GA

Membership – Mark Mason, Pro Exterior by APCO, Westerville, OH

National Presidents Council – Jason Hensler, Marvin Windows & Doors, Watertown, WI

Workforce Development – Amanda Griffey, Construction Resources, Inc., Decatur, GA

NARI’s volunteer leaders are dedicated to empowering professionals, strengthening local chapters, and building a future-ready remodeling industry through collaboration, innovation and excellence.

The post NARI Names Executive Officers and Committee Chairs appeared first on Kitchen & Bath Business.

One of the most surprising findings in the report was that Q1 2026 saw snow melting sales grow 20.7% as whole, with much of that growth coming directly from the professional customer segment. 

Professional customers were up 8.6% in snow melting sales, which represented the largest sales volume increase for any WarmlyYours customer segment in Q1 2026. Moving beyond just sales, WarmlyYours has placed an emphasis on acting as a technical partner for installers. 

Julia Billen, owner and president, noted that the brand’s growth is rooted in ensuring contractors have the confidence to execute complex installs flawlessly.

“Let’s be honest, in the world of electric snow melting, a product is only as good as the pro installing it,” said Billen. “You can have the best tech on the planet, but if the trade professionals don’t feel supported, it’s just cable in a box. That’s why we’ve gone all-in on our relationships with electricians and pavers.” 

The most popular snow melting heating element for professional customers in Q1 2026 was the brand’s 240V cable (making up 45%), followed by the PowerMat (28%) and the OmniMat (13%).

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Unlike other tools that only offer selections within fixed parameters, Kaleido Color Lab opens up a system of more than 500 remixable combinations. Designers can mix and match base patterns, vibrant accent colors and format sizes in just three easy steps, visualized instantly through a streamlined online experience.

In addition to floors, designers now can use LVT as a commercial wall covering when the correct products, adhesives and installation methods are specified. What began as a creative design workaround has evolved into a legitimate wall covering strategy for a variety of environments.

“Kaleido isn’t just about choosing a product — it’s about authorship,” said Oxana Dallas, principal designer, Commercial, AHF Products. “It gives designers control over how color, pattern and scale interact within a space, so they can express not only aesthetic ideas but emotional tone and brand identity.”

Designed for Today’s Design Professional

Kaleido was created with the modern designer’s workflow in mind, balancing creative freedom with simplicity and precision. At the core is an intuitive customization engine that guides users through selecting a base pattern, applying an accent color and choosing the ideal product size. The interface removes complexity from the creative process, letting designers move from idea to specification without friction.

“Designers are always looking for ways to extend the use of performance materials beyond the floor,” said Dallas. “Using LVT on walls allows us to create cohesive environments that balance durability, cleanability and visual impact. In commercial interiors, vertical LVT delivers both design flexibility and practical performance.”

With integrated, real-time visualization tools, users can preview their designs in curated commercial interiors or upload their own project spaces. This speeds up decision-making, builds client confidence and makes it easier to translate creative intent into clear outcomes.

Kaleido also supports a wide range of functional and strategic design needs. Whether reinforcing brand color palettes, creating intuitive wayfinding, establishing zoning or shaping the atmosphere of a space, the system offers both aesthetic depth and practical utility. Its patterns are bold but balanced; its palette expressive but cohesive, enabling designers to tell stories through the floor and wall without sacrificing performance.

And because Armstrong Flooring LVT is made to order in Lancaster, Pa., it reduces overproduction and waste, minimizes inventory requirements and shortens lead times, supporting both sustainable design practices and agile project timelines.

“Sustainability isn’t just about materials anymore,” said Dallas. “It’s about responsible systems. With Kaleido, we’ve built a made-to-order model that delivers exactly what’s needed, when it’s needed, without the waste or excess.” 

The Core of Kaleido: Structure Meets Freedom

At the heart of the Kaleido program is Mixtera, a new pattern family designed in-house and rooted in the biophilic principle of complexity and order. It features three versatile designs —  Prism, a random linear pattern with dynamic rhythm, Mosaic, a soft, non-directional texture with textile-inspired depth, and Mirage, an organic, fluid design with tonal movement.

Each is available in two neutral base tones and can be paired with any of 28 curated accent colors, including the brights and neutrals of Duo and three colors drawn from the popular Terra collection. Tandem offers five coordinating neutral solids round out the offering, allowing designers to contrast, layer, or ground their compositions with confidence.

The visuals suggest softness and depth, evoking the character of woven materials, yet every product is built on a high-performance, USA-made LVT platform with Diamond 10® Technology for superior resistance to scratches, scuffs, and stains.

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Above: Left to right – Brian Pagel, Executive Vice President Business Development, Emerald Expositions; Kerrie Kelly, NKBA Board of Directors Chair; Bill Darcy, Global President and CEO, NKBA | KBIS; Cândida Cervieri, Executive Director, ABIMÓVEL; Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer, Domestic & Global Brands, NKBA; Indira Ribeiro Franca, Vice President International Business Development, Emerald Expositions; and Paulo Roberto da Silva, Coordinator of Industry and Services, APEX Photo: NKBA

This exclusive NKBA international business development initiative is designed to bring the global kitchen and bath community together by exchanging market insights, information, and product development ideas. Through a network of expert advisors, exclusive research and content, the program shares go-to-market strategies to help international companies explore business opportunities in North America. NKBA Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partners agree to collaborate and cooperate on mutually beneficial programs, sharing business and market insights for the benefit of the global kitchen and bath industry. Demonstrating this collaboration and cooperation, NKBA recently visited the Brazil Pavilion at Salone del Mobile.Milano to witness the craftmanship, innovation and ambition on display and held productive discussions on how to bring this excitement to KBIS 2027.

“We are delighted to team with ABIMÓVEL, one of the Brazilian furniture sector’s most influential and prominent trade associations, and to welcome them as an NKBA Global Connect Strategic Alliance Partner,” said Geraldine Morrison, Chief Partnerships Officer, Domestic & Global Brands, for NKBA. “We believe that working with this outstanding organization will facilitate a meaningful dialogue among business entities in both our markets as highlighted by our recent conversation with ABIMÓVEL at Salone. NKBA Global Connect helps to foster a greater understanding of the nuances of conducting business internationally, particularly for global companies that wish to explore entry into the North American market. We are committed to increasing opportunities for our members to connect with international firms, and to providing the tools for companies around the world to do business here.”

ABIMÓVEL has represented Brazil’s furniture industry for nearly five decades, working to support, develop and strengthen the sector both nationally and internationally. Today, Brazil is the largest furniture producer in Latin America and the seventh largest in the world, a position that reflects the strategic relevance of a diverse, far-reaching production chain closely aligned with the transformations shaping today’s market. Throughout its history, the association has led an agenda focused on business development, competitiveness, design, sustainability, technical standardization, innovation and internationalization, supporting companies of all sizes, segments and regions across the country.

The Brazilian Furniture Project is the platform through which ABIMÓVEL, in partnership with ApexBrasil – the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency – structures the international presence of Brazil’s furniture industry. Bringing together companies, designers, suppliers and buyers from key global markets, the initiative combines trade promotion, networking and strategic brand positioning, thereby generating business opportunities while projecting the country’s image across the sector’s leading hubs and events.

“We are proud to join NKBA in exploring and expanding opportunities for our members in the North American kitchen and bath market,” said Cândida Cervieri, Executive Director of ABIMÓVEL. “Our primary mission is to strengthen the competitiveness of our companies and advance the internationalization of Brazil’s wood and furniture production chain in a strategic and assertive way. Supporting this sector, which plays a fundamental role in our country’s economy, will always remain our main priority. We look forward to working with NKBA toward these goals in a way that benefits both industries and nations.”

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The powerful new capabilities are enabled by a SketchUp Connector model context protocol (MCP) service that allows Claude to interact directly with SketchUp (.skp) files. The connectivity enhances existing design workflows and expands access to 3D modeling for people at any skill level.

Trimble SketchUp is a professional-grade 3D modeling software used widely in architecture, design, construction and other fields. This is the first Connector created by Trimble that connects the SketchUp design environment with other tools via the MCP framework.

Conversational 3D modeling

The SketchUp Connector integration with Claude lets users create 3D geometry, such as building massing models, landscapes or furniture by simply describing what they want. Plain-language inputs alongside reference images, sketches, photos, floor plans and dimensions that users upload can give Claude the context needed to understand the design goal. Claude builds the geometry in a cloud SketchUp session, verifying dimensions iteratively.

“The learning curve and time it takes for professionals to transfer a vision to a digital model has traditionally been the biggest barrier to 3D modeling,” said Chris Cronin, vice president and general manager of architecture and design solutions at Trimble. “Natural language prompts and the power of AI make it easy for anyone to get started and excel, including inexperienced and non-traditional 3D design users, bringing us closer to our ‘3D for everyone’ goal.”

The specialized Claude integration for SketchUp is consistent with Trimble-wide initiatives to democratize advanced technology and make them available and accessible to a wider range of users, according to Cronin. 

Additional 3D modeling advantages

In addition to allowing natural language prompts, the SketchUp Claude Connector tracks version history within a single chat, enabling users to rapidly navigate, troubleshoot and refine their 3D models. If a design is not quite accurate, users can describe necessary changes or paste screenshots from SketchUp directly into the chat to point out specific angles, proportions or elements that need adjustment.

When a model is completed, the Connector creates a 2D preview thumbnail and provides a direct download link to the .skp file. Users can instantly download, open and edit the file in any SketchUp modeler.

Users can also design and train Claude on core skills and unique workflows to complete repetitive tasks more quickly and efficiently.

Availability

Users can get started today by enabling Trimble SketchUp in Claude’s MCP directory connector settings. Accessing the Connector requires a Claude account and a Trimble ID for authentication. Users receive a free SketchUp entitlement that allows them to save up to 30 SketchUp models; after that, a paid entitlement is required. Resulting files can be opened in SketchUp for Web, Desktop, iPad or iPhone.

The post Trimble Links SketchUp with Anthropic’s Claude appeared first on Kitchen & Bath Business.

As homeowners continue to invest in their homes for comfort, functionality, and long-term value, National Home Improvement Month serves as a reminder that successful remodeling starts with the right professional. NARI members across the country are committed to upholding the highest standards through the association’s Code of Ethics, ensuring transparency, integrity, and exceptional workmanship in every project.

“Home is more important than ever – it’s where we live, work and connect,” said Jonathan Kelly, NARI President. “National Home Improvement Month is about empowering homeowners to make informed decisions and partner with qualified professionals who prioritize quality, safety, and trust.”

Throughout the month, NARI and its Chapters will share expert tips, project inspiration, and resources to help homeowners plan and execute their remodeling projects with confidence. From kitchen and bath upgrades to whole-home renovations, NARI emphasizes the importance of proper planning, realistic budgeting, and hiring certified professionals.

Key Tips for Homeowners During National Home Improvement Month

Plan Ahead: Define your goals, priorities, and budget before starting a project.
Hire Qualified Professionals: Look for NARI remodelers who adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.
Communicate Clearly: Establish expectations, timelines, and scope of work upfront.
Focus on Value: Invest in projects that enhance both functionality and long-term home value.
Prioritize Safety: Ensure your project meets all building codes and safety standards.

National Home Improvement Month also highlights the vital role the remodeling industry plays in strengthening local economies and communities. NARI continues to support workforce development, advocate for industry standards, and provide education and resources for both professionals and consumers.

Homeowners are encouraged to visit NARI’s website to find trusted professionals, explore remodeling resources, and learn more about how to start their next project with confidence.

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This evolution positions Keeler Brass Co. as the holding entity for a focused portfolio of brands — Keeler, Belwith, Hickory Hardware and First Watch Security — each with a clearly defined role, audience and channel strategy. The realignment reflects a deliberate shift toward greater clarity, stronger market alignment and long-term value creation across the portfolio.

The initiative is guided by a strategic growth framework developed to define the company’s next phase of growth, anchored in channel expansion, product innovation, value creation, portfolio clarity and strategic partnerships. Central to this approach is a focus on upstream specification, strengthening influence at the design stage to drive downstream demand, elevating perceived value and supporting more predictable, sustainable growth across channels.

“At its core, this is about clarity, intention and long-term value creation,” said Angela Rath, senior director of marketing & strategic growth at Keeler Brass Co. “We’ve developed a strategic growth framework to ensure our brands show up with purpose, serving distinct audiences, supporting our partners more effectively and strengthening our position within the design ecosystem. This alignment allows us to lead with design, protect the integrity of our brands and scale with discipline.”

At the center of this strategy is Keeler, the company’s premier luxury brand, grounded in a legacy of craftsmanship dating back to 1893. Moving forward, Keeler will lead with a specification-first approach, deepening engagement with architects, interior designers and custom builders through elevated design, material innovation and curated distribution.

Belwith will serve as the company’s design-forward accessible luxury brand, bridging elevated aesthetics with scalability across showrooms, distribution and managed e-commerce. Hickory Hardware will continue to deliver smart, style-driven value with a focus on retail and digital velocity while First Watch Security will remain a programmatic, utility-driven offering within the home security category.

“This is not about being everywhere,” said Rath. “It’s about showing up in the right places with the right product and the right level of intention. By aligning brand, channel and experience, we are creating a more disciplined and impactful path forward.”

As part of this initiative, Keeler Brass Co. will reintroduce its brands to the market through enhanced storytelling, deeper engagement with the A+D community and a renewed presence at key industry events.

This announcement marks the beginning of a broader rollout, with additional updates to product strategy, channel execution and brand experience to follow in the coming months.

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