Kitchen & Bath Business https://kbbonline.com/ The Official Publication of KBIS Thu, 21 May 2026 21:58:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://kbbonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/KBB_LtPrpl_32x32.png Kitchen & Bath Business https://kbbonline.com/ 32 32 Award Winners from ICFF https://kbbonline.com/award-news/award-winners-from-icff/169080/ https://kbbonline.com/award-news/award-winners-from-icff/169080/#respond Thu, 21 May 2026 21:57:08 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169080 This year at ICFF, KBB had the privilege of judging not one but two awards programs. Here are selected highlights from each of them. Above: The judges for the NKBA Manhattan Chapter’s Inspire Awards at ICFF. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer ICFF Editors Awards In addition to KBB’s Leslie Clagett, judges included Anna […]

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This year at ICFF, KBB had the privilege of judging not one but two awards programs. Here are selected highlights from each of them.

Above: The judges for the NKBA Manhattan Chapter’s Inspire Awards at ICFF. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer

ICFF Editors Awards

In addition to KBB’s Leslie Clagett, judges included Anna Casotti, Antonella Boise, Amit Gupta, Deb Martin, Jaxon Stone, Julia Demer, Julia Haney Montanez, Matthew Marani, Marie Godfrain, Rebecca Thienes and Stephanie Chen of KBB’s sister publication “Hospitality Design”.

icff best in show zieta

Best in Show: Zieta. Photo: Jenna Bascom Photography

icff best kitchen bath herbeau

Best Kitchen and Bath: Herbeau. Photo: Jenna Bascom Photography

icff best furniture bernhardt

Best Furniture: Bernhardt. Photo Jenna Bascom Photography

icff best materials surfaces leon speakers

Best Materials & Surfaces: Leon Speakers. Photo: Jenna Bascom Photography

icff best lighting ridezign

Best Lighting: Ridezign. Photo: Jenna Bascom Photography

Other category winners include Best Outdoor: British American Camping, Best Flooring & Rugs: Gina Atelier, Best Craftsmanship: Atelier Lebuisson, Best Exhibit Design: Arboreal, Best American Brand: Sin, Best International Brand: Zieta Studio and Best Sustainable Design: Parsons Healthy Materials Lab.

NKBA Manhattan Chapter Inspire Awards

Spearheaded by NKBA Manhattan Chapter Membership Chair Diana Mosher, judges hit the ICFF show floor for the annual Inspire Awards.

nkba manhattan inspire awards nero sicilia tile best of show

Best of Show: Nero Sicilia. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer

nkba manhattan inspire awards la compagnie du verre editors choice

Editor’s Choice: La Compagnie du Verre. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer

nkba manhattan inspire awards santo kafuan

Best Wall Treatment: Santo Kafuan Co. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer

nkba manhattan inspire awards decibel

Best Outdoor Furniture: Decibel. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer

nkba manhattan inspire awards izza berber

Best Carpet and Flooring: Izza Berber. Photo: Jeffrey Siegel / The Mad Photographer

Other category winners include Best Seating: YGG & LYNG, Best Furniture: Art-appliquée,  Best Lighting: Hyland, Best Textile: Poppy, Best Art & Accessories: Leon Speakers and Best Booth Design: Canvas.

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Marazzi’s Grande Lume Wins Red Dot Award https://kbbonline.com/award-news/marazzis-grande-lume-wins-red-dot-award/169063/ https://kbbonline.com/award-news/marazzis-grande-lume-wins-red-dot-award/169063/#respond Thu, 21 May 2026 09:36:21 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169063 Marazzi has received another important international recognition for its Grande Lume Collection, which is the winner of the Red Dot Award Product Design 2026.  One of the most prestigious awards in the global design landscape, each year, the award celebrates products that stand out for their design quality, innovation and aesthetic value. With Grande Lume, […]

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Marazzi has received another important international recognition for its Grande Lume Collection, which is the winner of the Red Dot Award Product Design 2026. 

One of the most prestigious awards in the global design landscape, each year, the award celebrates products that stand out for their design quality, innovation and aesthetic value.

With Grande Lume, Marazzi has reinterpreted the heritage of Crogiolo Lume on an architectural transforming the large format into an expressive tool capable of enhancing material, light and This approach convinced the Red Dot Award jury, which recognized the collection for its strong design and identity value.

The award represents a further milestone for Marazzi in its journey of innovation and research in ceramic design, reinforcing its role as an international benchmark.

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Design Considerations for Neurodivergent Clients https://kbbonline.com/type-projects/design-considerations-for-neurodivergent-clients/169058/ https://kbbonline.com/type-projects/design-considerations-for-neurodivergent-clients/169058/#respond Wed, 20 May 2026 16:25:50 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169058 When a client tells me their kitchen feels overwhelming and cluttered, my first instinct is not to suggest more storage space, it’s to ask how they live and function in the space. As a designer with ADHD and likely dyslexia, I have spent enough time adapting to spaces that were not built for my brain […]

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When a client tells me their kitchen feels overwhelming and cluttered, my first instinct is not to suggest more storage space, it’s to ask how they live and function in the space. As a designer with ADHD and likely dyslexia, I have spent enough time adapting to spaces that were not built for my brain to know that the problem is rarely the person and almost always the space.

Above photo: Rima Nasser, principal designer at TEW Design Studio, believes in design that works with her clients – not against. Photo credit: Allie Mullin Photography.

Neurodivergence encompasses a wide spectrum of cognitive styles, including ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences and dyslexia. Research estimates that roughly one in five people identify as neurodivergent. That means a significant portion of our clients are living in spaces that were designed for a neurological baseline that does not represent how they function. As designers, we can change that.

Shifting the Perspective

No two neurodivergent clients are alike, yet nearly all have spent years adapting themselves to their spaces rather than the other way around. The shift that we must consider as designers is not in what we specify but how we think before we get there. The clients who benefit most from this thinking will not always tell you they need it. Inclusive design, when done well, is simply good design.

The philosophical shift starts early in the discovery process. Asking “How do you move through the space on a hard day?” and “What in your current kitchen causes you the most frustration?” are design questions and not diagnostic questions. They help bring out answers that change everything from material selections to layout logic.

Starting in the Heart of the Home

The kitchen is where this philosophy gets tested most; it is a highly stimulating space that demands sequencing, memory and multitasking – often under the pressure of time. Cognitive load solutions indicate how much mental effort a space demands just to function in it. A kitchen where storage systems ask the user to make a series of small decisions every time they cook is a high cognitive overload environment.

Behavioral flow asks whether the space supports or fights the way a person moves through their day. Is the coffee station on the opposite wall from where the mugs are stored? Does the pantry have easy access while cooking?

Designers who serve these clients well are not necessarily specifying differently but instead thinking differently. I am always asking whether the workflow is intuitive versus interruptive, whether what the eye lands on helps or distracts and whether the storage system makes life simpler or just moves clutter around. Most clients will never know which question changed everything, and that is the point.

Bathroom Therapy

Sensory regulation is about how the environment affects our nervous system. For clients with sensory sensitivities, the bathroom can be a place of refuge or a daily source of dysregulation, depending on decisions made during the specification phase. A bathroom with nothing but hard surfaces and sound-reflective elements can feel aggressive rather than soothing.

The details that affect a sensitive nervous system are often the ones resolved last, like lighting or acoustical solutions. They are also the ones most likely to be selected by default rather than intention. When we make those decisions with a specific neurological profile in mind, the result is a space the nervous system can finally rest in.

Neurodivergent clients are not a niche market. They are sitting across from us in discovery calls, describing spaces that have quietly exhausted them for years, often without the language to explain why. I know that feeling from personal experience. I spent most of my life reorganizing, simplifying, starting over and wondering why things haven’t resonated with me. It was not until I understood my ADHD and likely dyslexia that I realized the spaces around me were working against me, not with me. That realization changed how I design for everyone. When design gets it right, it does not just improve the space, but it changes your clients’ lives and how they experience themselves in it.

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Christina Cruz on Pivoting Careers with Purpose https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/christina-cruz-on-pivoting-careers-with-purpose/168925/ https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/christina-cruz-on-pivoting-careers-with-purpose/168925/#respond Wed, 20 May 2026 12:00:13 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=168925 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 […]

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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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LX Hausys America Forms Cross-Channel Design Council  https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/lx-hausys-america-forms-cross-channel-design-council/169045/ https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/lx-hausys-america-forms-cross-channel-design-council/169045/#respond Wed, 20 May 2026 10:07:28 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169045 LX Hausys America Inc. announced the launch of the LX Hausys Design Council, a cross-channel group created to integrate real-world market feedback directly into the company’s product development process. Comprised of interior design, stone fabrication, distribution and home center professionals, the council will help ensure future Viatera introductions align with evolving customer expectations, regional design […]

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LX Hausys America Inc. announced the launch of the LX Hausys Design Council, a cross-channel group created to integrate real-world market feedback directly into the company’s product development process. Comprised of interior design, stone fabrication, distribution and home center professionals, the council will help ensure future Viatera introductions align with evolving customer expectations, regional design preferences and application needs. The council’s work will culminate with the launch of LX Hausys’ 2027 Viatera product introductions, slated for KBIS 2027. 

“We are extremely excited to launch the LX Hausys Design Council,” said Yael Goldshmid, director of surfaces product development at LX Hausys. “Unlike other design councils that may assist with trend spotting or serve as ambassador groups, ours will play a meaningful role in the creation of new Viatera quartz products. With this group, we’re taking another strategic step to ensure our products have market fit and long-term relevance. Trends come and go, but the best products are created when design, application and customer insight come together early in the process.” 

The eight council members, located across several strategic U.S. markets, attended a kickoff meeting this spring at LX Hausys’ state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Adairsville, Ga., to review the company’s initial 2027 product ideas. The Design Council will meet twice more this year, with members providing feedback on topics ranging from product concepts and prototypes to finish choices, decorative element pairings, pricing and materiality. The council will also advise on application and installation methods, as well as the viability of using Viatera beyond traditional kitchen and bath countertop applications. 

By bringing together voices from multiple sectors of the industry, LX Hausys is creating a more holistic approach to product development, balancing design inspiration with fabrication practicality, market demand and customer expectations. 

LX Hausys is planning a panel discussion in its booth at KBIS 2027, where Goldshmid and members of the Design Council will provide insight into how the new 2027 VIATERA colors were developed. The council will also meet at KBIS to begin planning 2028 product design ideas.  

LX Hausys America Cross-Channel Design Council 

The Design Council members are Elizabeth Joice of Elizabeth Joice Interiors in Cumming, Ga.; Jodi Cohan of JAC Studio in Newport Beach, Calif.; Lisa Sanchez of Nota Bene Design Studio in Alpharetta, Ga.; Stephanie Wiott of Stephanie Wiott Designs in Carmel, Ind.; Amber Newton of Innovative Surfaces in Hastings, Minn.; John Pulido of 3JS Workshop in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Audrey Orta of CRS Marble and Granite in San Antonio; and Krystal Wright of Sage Surfaces.  

The Viatera brand is defined by its classic and timeless aesthetic, inspired by the earth’s natural splendor. Consisting of seven collections offering a wide variety of hues and patterns for a kitchen and bath applications, Viatera is an ideal surface for a wide range of residential and commercial applications. Traditional Viatera surfaces are composed of up to 93% natural quartz. Select Viatera colors with NeoQ technology incorporate up to 90% post-consumer recycled content, offering a more sustainable design option. 

Providing exceptional durability, high stain resistance and ease of maintenance, all Viatera colors come with multiple independent certifications verifying their environmental and health benefits. These include Declare, Red List Free, Greenguard, EPD and HPD certifications. 

Select Viatera colors are compliant with the Build America, Buy America Act (BABA), supporting federally funded infrastructure and public building projects with surfaces that meet applicable domestic preference requirements.

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Designer Erica Leader Shares Her Favorite Products https://kbbonline.com/trends-inspirations/designer-erica-leader-shares-her-favorite-products/169024/ https://kbbonline.com/trends-inspirations/designer-erica-leader-shares-her-favorite-products/169024/#respond Tue, 19 May 2026 12:00:47 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169024 Erica Leader, owner and designer of The Northwest Home, endorses bold colors and patterns complemented by smart problem-solving to give homes a happy glow. Photos courtesy of the respective companies, unless otherwise noted. Lexi Small Sconce from Cedar & Moss “Those looking to add a fun pop of color but don’t want to commit to […]

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Erica Leader, owner and designer of The Northwest Home, endorses bold colors and patterns complemented by smart problem-solving to give homes a happy glow.

Photos courtesy of the respective companies, unless otherwise noted.

Lexi Small Sconce from Cedar & Moss

cedar and moss Lexi sconce light

“Those looking to add a fun pop of color but don’t want to commit to an installed, harder-to-change material should look at light fixtures. There are so many fun options on the market these days but these playful sconces with their perforated shade instantly add interest to any design.” cedarandmoss.com

Emerald Quartzite from Artistic Tile

artistic tile blue rose slab

“Countertops are easily my favorite way to add a pop of color! I love that more colorful natural stones are making a comeback. Clients have been loving this emerald quartzite and while it is a definite color, in the PNW, this beautiful green is almost a neutral.” artistictile.com

Bobbin D-Bar Pull from Plank Hardware

plank hardware bobbin d-bar handle

Hardware is like the final jewelry piece of any design. It completes the space and adds that finishing pop of character. Think outside of the box and look at something like this unexpected profile – in color, of course!” us.plankhardware.com

Bird & Pomegranate Wallcovering from Morris & Co.

morris & co wallpaper bathroom design by Erica leader of the northwest home

“I love putting wallpaper in a pantry or a powder room – a tiny space that if done right can handle dramatic, bold, colorful patterns. Adding wallpaper to these areas is unexpected and can really make an impression.” wmorrisandco.com Design: The Northwest Home Photo credit: AJ Meeker

Ping Tile from Tempest Tileworks

tempest tileworks Ping

“One of the best ways to make a visual impact in a space is a fun, unique wall tile. Either with an unexpected layout or color, it can really make your space unique and personal, especially if you have a more subtle countertop. These handmade tiles have such a fun design, come in an array of colors and can be arranged in a bunch of different patterns for a truly custom look,” said Erica Leader. tempesttileworks.com

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Tile of Spain Launches Podcast: The Grout Line https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/tile-of-spain-launches-podcast-the-grout-line/169034/ https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/tile-of-spain-launches-podcast-the-grout-line/169034/#respond Tue, 19 May 2026 09:53:42 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169034 Tile of Spain, the international brand representing more than 100 ceramic tile manufacturers belonging to the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer’s Association (ASCER), has launched a new podcast, The Grout Line. This series invites architects, designers, trade professionals, homeowners and tile enthusiasts to take a deep dive into the world of Spanish ceramics from every angle.  […]

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Tile of Spain, the international brand representing more than 100 ceramic tile manufacturers belonging to the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer’s Association (ASCER), has launched a new podcast, The Grout Line. This series invites architects, designers, trade professionals, homeowners and tile enthusiasts to take a deep dive into the world of Spanish ceramics from every angle. 

“We’re very excited to introduce another resource for the architecture and design community to engage and learn about Spanish ceramics,” said Rocamador Rubio, director of Tile of Spain in the United States. “As a global leader in the industry, this podcast expands Tile of Spain USA’s arsenal of educational resources and helps broaden the understanding of ceramics across multiple audiences.” 

Hosted by Tile of Spain USA’s ceramic tile technical spokesperson Ryan Fasan, The Grout Line brings together industry leaders for insightful conversations on the forces shaping the ceramic tile landscape. Each episode features expert perspectives on a range of topics, including design trends, installation techniques, economic factors, manufacturing standards and more. 

The Grout Line will also feature a bonus mini-series, Beneath the Surface, additional episodes recorded live each year during Coverings, North America’s largest international tile and stone exhibition. 

Episodes with Sarah Malek Barney, founder and principal of Bandd Design; Schannon and Chris Yodice, the creators behind the That Tile Chick social media channel; John Merola, CEO of Merola Tile Distributors of America; and even more guests are available to stream now. 

Upcoming episodes will feature interviews and conversations with Alena Capra, principal of Alena Capra Design and Coverings spokesperson; Jennifer Richinelli, Stone World editor and 2026 Coverings champion; and Rick Church, executive director of the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA). 

Podcast episodes are published monthly across Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon music and more. Listeners can also stream via Tile of Spain USA’s feed here.

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Tiffany Skilling Gets the Last Word https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/tiffany-skilling-gets-the-last-word/169015/ https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/tiffany-skilling-gets-the-last-word/169015/#respond Mon, 18 May 2026 19:26:00 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169015 Designer Tiffany Skilling of Indianapolis-based Tiffany Skilling Interiors shares how she builds beauty by blending historical narratives with personalized details. 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 […]

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Designer Tiffany Skilling of Indianapolis-based Tiffany Skilling Interiors shares how she builds beauty by blending historical narratives with personalized details.

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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Seeking Sinks – and More – in Milan https://kbbonline.com/trends-inspirations/seeking-sinks-and-more-in-milan/168950/ https://kbbonline.com/trends-inspirations/seeking-sinks-and-more-in-milan/168950/#respond Mon, 18 May 2026 12:00:33 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=168950 This was my first time attending Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile.Milano. This year’s focus was kitchen & bath – sinks, vanities, plumbing products, cabinets and so much more. We spent the first two days visiting the city’s showrooms and dedicated the final day to touring the exhibition floor, which was enormous, easily six […]

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This was my first time attending Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile.Milano. This year’s focus was kitchen & bath – sinks, vanities, plumbing products, cabinets and so much more. We spent the first two days visiting the city’s showrooms and dedicated the final day to touring the exhibition floor, which was enormous, easily six times the size of some of the other shows I’ve attended!

Above: Falper continues to push boundaries by blending textures, materials, and shapes. The vessel sink paired with a gold towel bar and uniquely shaped mirror perfectly captures their design language: bold, architectural, and intentionally unexpected. Photo: Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

Access on the weekend is open to local residents, allowing them to experience the show and reinforcing the city’s pride in hosting it year after year.

park avenue teacup vessel sink

Park Avenue’s display embraced personality, featuring a teacup vessel sink and matching bathtub. Beyond the whimsy, the brand offers elegant statement pieces suitable for both powder rooms and primary bathrooms. Photo: Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

Visiting the Source: Factory Tours

We arrived a few days early and focused on factory tours so we could see firsthand how some of our pieces are manufactured, including visits to CEA and Stenal.

cea design rock sink

CEA’s new collection showcases a striking combination of brushed finishes along the sides and polished finishes on the top surface. The contrast creates movement within the faucet itself, transforming under different lighting conditions and adding depth to an otherwise minimal form. Photo: Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

At CEA, what stood out most was how sustainable and impeccably clean their factory is. Nearly everything is handmade, down to the very last screw. Dedicated teams oversee each small component of the design and production process with incredible attention to detail. While there are robots integrated into the facility, their primary role is transporting heavy materials from one area to another; the craftsmanship itself remains largely hands-on.

Stenal has a wonderful team and an impressive facility. Stenal offers fully customizable saunas with a wide range of wood panels, thicknesses, textures, finishes and lighting options. They are extremely meticulous, each sauna is fully assembled, plugged in and tested to ensure it is functioning perfectly before being shipped overseas. They also provide detailed, step-by-step installation instructions to simplify setup in the U.S.

Their most memorable feature was the snow machine – yes, real manufactured snow. It’s an incredible addition for clients who prefer an alternative to a traditional cold plunge after a sauna session.

Sink Showcase

antoniolupi bathtub

Antonio Lupi embodies quiet luxury. The green marble tub with a concealed filler highlights their philosophy: strong construction, minimal presence and seamless integration. Their ability to incorporate hidden wall storage reinforces the concept of clean, uninterrupted design. Photo: Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

Many of the attached photos are from the exhibition itself but we also visited several showrooms in the city, including CEA, Gessi, Raspel, Falper, Rexa, Idea Group, Laufen, THG Paris, Franke, Fantini, Dornbracht and even a pop-up showroom from Samuel Heath. It involved a lot of walking and refueling with espresso!

dornbracht pedestal sink

Dornbracht stands apart by not chasing trends. They don’t release new collections annually because their designs endure. Their floral pedestal and matching wall-mounted faucet exemplify why the brand maintains its reputation for innovation, quality and lasting relevance. Photo: Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

Our last day in Milan was spent entirely at the show, from 10:00 a.m. until closing at 6:00 p.m. To put the scale into perspective, we barely made it through a quarter of it. This year there were 22 pavilions, up from 17 last year. We were fortunate to visit booths from Olivari, Zen, Kreoo, Park Avenue, Antonio Lupi (which had the longest line), Graff, Serdaneli, AXOR, Bathco, Inbani, SICIS, Alice Ceramica, Baden Haus and Cielo Ceramica.

sicis bathroom sink salone

Sicis delivered one of the most impactful displays at the show. Their level of customization, from glass and leather finishes to a fully integrated makeup counter with bifolding illuminated glass panels, demonstrates what’s possible when craftsmanship meets creativity. Photo: Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

We wrapped up the trip with some much-needed pizza, pasta, and, of course, plenty of fresh bread.

—Jack Bernstein is founder of Kurrent Kitchen + Bath

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This is Not a High Point Market Recap https://kbbonline.com/kbb-collective/this-is-not-a-high-point-market-recap/168968/ https://kbbonline.com/kbb-collective/this-is-not-a-high-point-market-recap/168968/#respond Mon, 18 May 2026 12:00:06 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=168968 I truly believe that design begins somewhere special, not in a mood board or a client meeting or even on a computer design screen. Design begins in a conversation that starts in one place and ends somewhere you never expected. There is no shortage of High Point Market recaps at this time of year. Everyone […]

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I truly believe that design begins somewhere special, not in a mood board or a client meeting or even on a computer design screen. Design begins in a conversation that starts in one place and ends somewhere you never expected.

There is no shortage of High Point Market recaps at this time of year. Everyone is sharing what they saw, what they loved, and what is trending. Of course, there is value in that. Still, I find myself more interested in the conversations that stay with me after Market ends. The ones that go deeper than a showroom walk-through or a quick reaction to a new launch.

That is exactly what happened when I sat down with Rick Lee at Thayer Coggin during Spring High Point Market.

Designer Conversations: A Talk with Rick Lee + Thayer Coggin

I love the design aesthetic of Thayer Coggin and have deep respect for what this brand contributes to furniture design. Their pieces are bench-made in North Carolina. They are thoughtful, refined and comfortable in a way that never feels forced. In a world that moves too fast, something is reassuring about furniture that does not rush to prove itself.

Yes, I went to the showroom to see what was new and next. I walked out thinking about something much more meaningful. Rick designed the Ooola sectional for Thayer Coggin, and it was making its market debut. If you have not seen it, it is worth a look. It has movement. It has presence. More importantly, it has something many sculptural pieces miss: It makes you want to sit down and stay for a while.

The integrated swivel end chair is wide enough to seat two. The curves feel soft without losing structure. The plinth base gives the piece subtle detail. Rick told me he designed it to make people smile every time they sit down on an Ooola. The moment I sat in it, I understood exactly what he meant. I smiled.

When Comfort and Beauty Work Together

We began by discussing the piece itself, but the conversation moved into something deeper. We talked about where ideas come from and at what point in the creative process, a thought stops being an idea and starts becoming something real. We talked about comfort and beauty, and what it means when both work together.

As designers, we always talk about beauty. We also talk a great deal about function. What interests me most is what happens when neither one has to sacrifice itself for the other. That balance is not easy to achieve. However, when you find it, you know it. That is what I felt sitting in that piece and hearing Rick talk about how it came to life.

Design Begins in Attention

Rick has a calm and thoughtful energy that is rare. He is the kind of creative who makes you slow down without ever asking you to. As a result, you listen more carefully. You think a little more deeply. The conversation stops being only about furniture and starts becoming about perspective.

At one point, we realized we were both wearing unique stones. That shifted the conversation again. We talked about what we carry with us, literally and otherwise. We talked about intention. We talked about the things that keep us grounded while we create, work and move through daily life.

Design does not begin only in a studio or on a showroom floor. Instead, it begins with attention and observation. In the willingness to sit with something long enough to understand it.

That is one of the reasons Thayer Coggin continues to resonate with me. Their contribution to furniture goes beyond silhouette and finish. There is integrity in what they make, combined with confidence in the restraint. They are respectful of the company’s history. There is also an understanding that good design does not need to shout for attention.

This approach speaks to me, especially now, because we are using a great deal of Thayer Coggin furniture. When I specify furnishings for a project, I am not only looking at the lines of a piece or the finish on a frame, but I am also thinking about how that piece will live in the room. I am thinking about comfort, scale, presence and longevity. Most of all, how the piece supports the story of the space and the people living in it.

That is what good furniture and great design should do.

I want to explore that idea on my blog in a new series, “Designer Conversations”, which will focus on the thoughts that shape design more deeply. The posts will explore how ideas begin, grow and change. They will look at the place where form and function meet, and where materials, makers, designers and intention all come together.

Because the best things I learn in this industry rarely come from walking a showroom floor alone.

Sharon L. Sherman is founder of Thyme & Place Design

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Construction Resources Acquires Surfaces Distributor Vitoria International https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/construction-resources-acquires-vitoria-international/169006/ https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/construction-resources-acquires-vitoria-international/169006/#respond Mon, 18 May 2026 10:44:01 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=169006 Construction Resources Co. LLC has completed the acquisition of Vitoria International LLC, a distributor of natural stone and quartz serving fabricators, professional builders, interior designers and remodelers in the Charleston, S.C., and Savannah, Ga., areas.   “We are thrilled to have Vitoria International join the Construction Resources team,” said Mitch Hires, CEO Construction Resources. “Their […]

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Construction Resources Co. LLC has completed the acquisition of Vitoria International LLC, a distributor of natural stone and quartz serving fabricators, professional builders, interior designers and remodelers in the Charleston, S.C., and Savannah, Ga., areas.  

“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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Ferguson Supports Youth Entering Skilled Trades https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/ferguson-supports-youth-entering-skilled-trades/168864/ https://kbbonline.com/business-people-news/ferguson-supports-youth-entering-skilled-trades/168864/#respond Sun, 17 May 2026 14:54:39 +0000 https://kbbonline.com/?p=168864 Through education, partnerships and community initiatives, Ferguson is working toward a goal of connecting 50,000 young people to the skilled trades by 2030 – helping more students see what’s possible and take the first step toward meaningful careers. That goal is closely connected to another long-term need: the ability to build and maintain the homes […]

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Through education, partnerships and community initiatives, Ferguson is working toward a goal of connecting 50,000 young people to the skilled trades by 2030 – helping more students see what’s possible and take the first step toward meaningful careers.

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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