In an industry increasingly shaped by social media, visual overload and rapid-fire trends, standing out as a designer can feel more challenging than ever. In the latest episode of the KBB From the Tap podcast, host and KBB Executive Editor Chelsie Butler sits down with Amy Courtney, founder of New York- and Connecticut-based Amy Courtney Design, to explore what it truly takes to build a distinct, lasting brand in today’s saturated market.

Why the Design Market Feels More Crowded Than Ever

With more than two decades of experience spanning residential renovations and large-scale projects, Courtney offers a thoughtful perspective on why the design landscape feels so crowded – and why that reality isn’t necessarily a negative. She discusses how social media and increasingly accessible visualization tools have dramatically expanded the pool of inspiration for both designers and clients. While this visual abundance has raised expectations, it has also created opportunities for designers to clarify their point of view and communicate ideas more effectively than ever before.

Courtney explains how tools such as mood boards, shared inspiration and 3D renderings help establish clarity of vision early in the design process. By grounding projects in architectural context, location and history, designers can guide clients toward cohesive decisions. This is a critical step when working with kitchens and baths, where layouts, finishes and materials are more permanent and high-stakes.

Building a Brand That Goes Beyond Trends

The conversation also dives into what it means to build a brand that endures. Courtney emphasizes the value of experience, education and a strong team culture in setting a firm apart, noting that longevity in the industry often comes down to consistency, trust and quality over time. She shares insight into how designers can thoughtfully engage with trends – embracing them where appropriate, while avoiding choices that may not age well or align with a firm’s core aesthetic.

To close, Courtney introduces a simple but powerful framework for trusting your creative voice: a three-word method that helps designers define their style through practical, aspirational and emotional lenses. For designers navigating a crowded field or questioning how to differentiate their work, the episode offers grounded advice, actionable strategies and reassurance that confidence – and clarity – are built over time.

To hear more about how to stand out in a saturated designer market, tune in to the full KBB From the Tap podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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Search engine optimization is one of those topics most design professionals know they should understand but often don’t have the time, patience or appetite to fully unpack. In the latest episode of the KBB From the Tap podcast, host Chelsie Butler sits down with Maggie Swift, CEO and co-founder of Unframed Digital, to talk candidly about why SEO continues to confuse so many kitchen and bath professionals and why ignoring it is no longer an option.

From the start, Swift challenges some of the most common assumptions surrounding SEO. It’s not just a checklist. It’s not just a handful of keywords. And it’s not a “set it and forget it” tactic. Even teams that actively work on optimizing their websites often feel like they’re flying blind, especially as Google and AI-driven searches continue to evolve.

Why “SEO Doesn’t Work” Is Rarely the Whole Story

Many designers and contractors have tried SEO before and walked away convinced it doesn’t work. Swift doesn’t dismiss that frustration; instead, she hints at the deeper issues that tend to sit beneath those experiences, from mismatched expectations to incomplete strategies. It’s a nuanced discussion that reframes SEO less as a magic switch and more as a long game that rewards intention and consistency. Rather than offering quick fixes, the episode explores why some approaches stall out and how the way SEO is scoped, supported and prioritized can quietly shape results long before rankings ever move.

When Beautiful Design Isn’t Enough to Be Found Online

While stunning portfolio photos remain essential, Swift suggests they may not be pulling as much weight as designers think – both with search engines and with potential clients. She shares stories from the field that illustrate just how significant the upside can be when SEO is done right – without turning the episode into a how-to guide or a sales pitch. The focus stays squarely on mindset: how designers think about marketing, where they choose to invest their time and money and what it really means to compete in a crowded digital landscape.

AI is changing how people search, how results are delivered and how businesses get discovered but not necessarily in the ways many fear. Swift offers reassurance while also making it clear that standing still isn’t a strategy.

For designers who’ve been meaning to “get to SEO someday,” this episode makes a compelling case for why that day might need to come sooner rather than later. To hear the full conversation, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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In this episode of the KBB “From the Tap” podcast, Lisa Kahn of Finding Sanctuary by Lisa Kahn Designs in Naples, Fla., shares her heartfelt philosophy on how design can do far more than enhance the look of a space; it can transform the way people live, feel and heal. Her work is rooted in the belief that when thoughtfully designed, kitchens and baths can serve as sanctuaries that nurture both body and spirit.

Kahn explains that the most successful spaces begin with empathy. Before a single finish or fixture is chosen, she focuses on understanding her clients’ needs, challenges and aspirations. She sees each project as an opportunity to create something that offers comfort, dignity and joy – especially for those navigating change, recovery or simply the stress of everyday life.

Spaces That Heal: Specific Design Ideas

Throughout the conversation, Kahn shares how design decisions like introducing natural light, selecting calming colors and using materials that feel authentic and tactile can have a powerful impact on well-being. A kitchen can become a place that encourages connection and togetherness, while a bathroom can serve as a private retreat for renewal and self-care.

She also emphasizes the growing importance of accessibility and inclusivity in modern design. Creating environments that welcome people of all ages and abilities, she says, should never come at the cost of beauty or personal style. It’s about ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and valued in the spaces they use most.

Collaboration, communication and compassion are central to Kahn’s process. By working closely with homeowners, builders and other professionals, she brings warmth and purpose to every detail. Listeners will walk away inspired to see kitchen and bath design not just as functional artistry but as a meaningful way to uplift and restore the human spirit.

To hear their Kahn’s insights, including how to design kitchens and baths that serve the needs of everyone living in a home, listen to the full podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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On the latest KBB From the Tap podcast, we spoke with Kristyn Harvey of Kristyn Harvey Interiors, in Solana Beach, California. She shared tips on prioritizing social media as part of running your business, including how to make time to include it in your schedule.

A Career Shift Sparked by a Renovation

A home renovation project that drew crowds during its eventual sale made Harvey realize she might have a natural talent for design. From there, she balanced night shifts as a nurse with remodeling projects for friends before fully diving into her own design firm. That sharp eye for detail, honed during her nursing years, has carried into her business. As she explained, it’s this combination of meticulousness and creativity her clients value most.

Mentorship Through Social Media

In addition to running her firm, Harvey has become an informal mentor for other designers navigating similar career shifts. Many find her approachable through her Instagram presence, where she shares both design content and personal insights.

“People follow the person more than the brand,” Harvey noted, adding that her goal is for clients and followers alike to feel like they already know her before they ever meet in person.

Building an Instagram Following

Her social media journey, however, didn’t take off overnight. In the interview, Harvey broke down how she built her following, the balance she strikes between personal storytelling and professional education and the strategy she uses to manage content creation without letting it consume her workweek. (Hint: it’s not about being perfect.)

Expanding the Business Beyond Instagram

Harvey also shared advice for designers hesitant to put themselves out there, as well as her perspective on why some professionals may need Instagram less than others. And beyond social media, she’s finding new ways to grow her business – including leaning into brand partnerships and expanding her services to include outdoor design.

Connection at the Core

For Harvey, it all comes back to connection: building trust with clients, creating community with fellow designers and letting her authentic personality shine through online.

Listen to the full podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets to hear Harvey’s approach to Instagram, her practical tips for balancing social media with client work and her candid thoughts on what really matters when putting yourself out there.

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In the world of home renovation, where stress and unexpected challenges often loom, Lori Miller of Melville, New York-based LGC Interior Design brings a unique and invaluable perspective. As a mental health counselor with a long and varied career, Miller now applies her psychological expertise to the design process, focusing on the well-being of her clients and fellow designers alike. We sat down with her for an insightful discussion on how to foster mental health and manage the human experience throughout a design project.

Before founding her firm, Miller spent nearly 30 years working in some of New York’s most demanding environments, including Rikers Island, where she learned the importance of understanding how space impacts people’s lives. This understanding, she explains, began with a realization during a personal journey, which solidified her belief that mental health and design are “truly one.”

Addressing Client Communication

When it comes to client relationships, Miller emphasizes setting clear expectations from the very start. She avoids pre-questionnaires, preferring to conduct in-person consultations to get a true sense of the client’s lifestyle and needs. She asks practical and lifestyle questions to understand their desire for a quieter or more active home environment. Miller has a firm yet flexible approach to client communication, clarifying the best ways to reach her and setting expectations for response times.

One of the most compelling aspects of her process is her proactive approach to managing the inevitable “Murphy’s Law” moments. She openly discusses potential problems to prepare clients for challenges that may arise. She shared a specific story about a client referral and her tips for building long-lasting relationships with clients even after the project has completed, so be sure to listen to the full podcast for that anecdote.

Relief for Fellow Designers

For her peers, Miller’s advice is centered on creating a strong support network. She emphasizes the importance of community in an industry that was once intensely competitive, where designers were reluctant to share resources. She even puts her own services out there as a therapist to help other designers manage the burnout and anxiety that often come with the job. Miller recommends joining professional organizations like IDS, IFDA and ASID, as well as Facebook support groups.

To learn more about Miller’s journey from a mental health counselor to a renowned designer, including the personal event that solidified her career change and to find out what specific holiday gift is so powerful it generates referrals, be sure to listen to the full podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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In our recent From the Tap podcast, renowned interior design architect Julee Ireland shared her insights on how stepping outside the conventional office environment to attend events like trade shows is crucial for designers. From attending these global shows to exploring her own city, Ireland emphasizes that inspiration is everywhere, and a designer’s job is to stay curious and pay attention to the details that shape our world.

Inspiration Is All Around Us

Ireland believes that inspiration isn’t always found far away; it’s often right outside our doors. She encourages designers to be curious about their surroundings, noting that patterns in city buildings, the textures of materials and the flow of an environment all contribute to a designer’s growth.

“As designers, details are what matter,” she said, underscoring the importance of observing and learning from one’s immediate environment. This practice helps designers understand what shapes our spaces, ultimately making them better at their craft.

The Power of Trade Shows

For Ireland, trade shows are a critical part of her professional life. She calls the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) her “favorite show” of her entire career, highlighting its role as a global platform where the latest innovations are unveiled. KBIS, she says, is where designers get their first look at new products and technologies. Beyond the products, the show is a hub for networking, learning from other professionals and discovering “little gems” – the innovative products from smaller companies that can truly transform a project.

She also spoke highly of Coverings, a show she recently attended as an influencer. She described it as a “mini-Europe and Asia to the U.S.,” where designers can see the latest global trends in tile and stone. She also included High Point Market on her list of essential events for designers, architects and builders, stressing that these shows are key to staying on top of industry trends and bringing new knowledge to projects.

The Story Behind the Products

Ireland sees visiting quarries, showrooms and manufacturing facilities as an essential part of her job. By understanding the entire process, from a dangerous job of cutting a stone from a mountain to the final product, designers can better appreciate the value and story of a material.

This knowledge is not just for the designer’s benefit; it’s a powerful tool for client education. Ireland says when a designer understands a material’s history and properties – like the porous nature of marble – they can guide clients to make choices that align with their lifestyle and ensure the longevity of the design.

Embracing Trends with a Personal Touch

When it comes to trends, Ireland positions herself as a “trendsetter rather than a trend follower” but acknowledges the importance of staying informed. She notes that European trends often arrive in the U.S. about 18 months later, and understanding them allows designers to thoughtfully infuse new ideas into their work. However, she emphasizes that trends should be a starting point, not a rule. The goal is to create a space that reflects the client’s personality and makes them happy. Listen to the full podcast to learn about the design trends coming out of Europe, which include less clutter and more curved lines.

Making Time for Inspiration

Ireland’s shares her advice for other busy designers when planning their personal and professional travel. She maps out her schedule a year in advance and makes it a point to explore museums, take walking tours and immerse herself in the local culture to gather inspiration. She encourages designers who feel they can’t afford such trips to start small and simply plan for them.

Listen to the full podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets to learn about Ireland’s favorite places for design inspiration and why she is particularly drawn to Europe.

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Michelle Murphy, founder of design firm Demi Ryan, specializes in designing for celebrity clientele, and she crafts environments that embody their personality and aspirations. From Manhattan to Chapel Hill, she has mastered the art of working with celebrities, athletes and affluent homeowners, while navigating the unique challenges of her niche. From starting fresh out of art school to designing 24,000-square-foot estates, Murphy offers a glimpse into the fast-paced, detail-driven world of luxury interior design on our recent From the Tap podcast.

A Bold Entrance into the Industry

“I started my career as the director of an art gallery in Manhattan, where I met two designers from London working on an HGTV show house,” says Murphy. “They wanted to borrow sculptures, and I insisted on delivering them myself. That connection eventually landed me the opportunity to design a wine cellar for a prominent show house chaired by Vanessa Williams.”

Michelle’s work immediately caught the attention of prominent New York designers and high-caliber clients, giving her the springboard she needed to launch her design business.

From the outset, Michelle knew her focus would be on designing for million-dollar homes. For her, the rationale was simple yet strategic. “By catering to high-end homes, I could scale the business more effectively and deliver a higher level of creativity and service,” she explains.

Delivering Luxury Under Pressure

Working with high-profile clients comes with its own set of expectations and challenges. Murphy highlights two key factors that distinguish these projects from others: privacy and time sensitivity. Listen to the full podcast to learn more about these two factors, and the designer shares some anecdotes as well.

Building a Brand Through Connection

Unique among her peers, Michelle’s firm, Demi Ryan, relies exclusively on word-of-mouth referrals. Despite working on projects across the country, she has deliberately avoided traditional advertising.

“For high-profile clients, personal recommendations build trust far better than advertisements,” she explains. “I built my base by connecting with people through show houses and delivering stellar results.”

Takeaways for Aspiring Designers

For those dreaming of a career in luxury design, Murphy’s key advice is to combine creative talent with business savvy. In the podcast, she goes into detail on understanding your niche, how to strategically network, how to be flexible with each project and how to develop business acumen for attracting the celebrity and/or high-end client

To learn more, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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Rebecca Jones, national sales manager at Airmada, joined the KBB From the Tap podcast to discuss the revolutionary AirPocket Door, which won the prestigious 2024 Bathroom Product of the Year award in KBB’s Product Awards competition.

“We’ve seen excitement not just from customers but also from contractors, showrooms, designers and architects,” said Jones. “More people are learning about this product, which has been so exciting for us.”

A Game-Changing Product

The AirPocket Door is the brainchild of Ron Tucker, one of Airmada’s owners. Frustrated with traditional swinging shower doors during his steam shower remodel, Tucker sought an alternative that would offer a fully enclosed, streamlined solution while eliminating the bulky, space-consuming swinging door design.

At its core, the AirPocket Door operates like a traditional pocket door, but it’s designed specifically for shower spaces. The door itself is crafted from glass, while the pocket it retracts into is made from stainless steel. What sets it apart, however, is the integrated drying system housed within the stainless-steel pocket. This system quickly dries the glass, helping prevent mold and mildew while leaving a sleek, clean appearance.

Why the AirPocket Door Stands Out

The AirPocket Door was celebrated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its practical benefits. Listen to the full podcast to learn more about how it saves space, is steam shower compatible, is universal design friendly and is aesthetically pleasing as well.

“It’s the perfect combination of functionality and style,” said Jones. “Customers love its sleek design and appreciate how it blends seamlessly into their overall bathroom aesthetic.”

The door is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for most showers. With sizing options up to 96 by 40 inches and curbless installation possibilities, the product meets a variety of design needs while maintaining its luxurious appeal.

Forward Thinking in Bathroom Design

Jones shared the company’s continued commitment to innovation, citing the recently launched AirJet Linear, a line of air jets designed to improve airflow within the shower space for quicker drying and mold prevention.

Both offerings represent the brand’s dedication to solving real-world problems for designers, contractors and homeowners alike. The patented designs allowed Airmada to deliver innovations never seen before, a quality that consistently delights customers and attendees at events like KBIS.

Building Momentum

With its focus on ingenuity and solving real design challenges, Airmada is solidifying its reputation as a leader in the bathroom product space. The Ai Pocket Door is a testament to Airmada’s unwavering dedication to innovation, blending practicality and sophistication in a way that elevates bathroom design. For designers, architects and contractors looking to provide their clients with cutting-edge solutions, this award-winning product is a game-changer.

Why Enter the 2025 KBB Product Awards

“You really risk nothing by submitting, and you gain everything, right?” said Jones. “There’s a ton of press around it, and we’ve gotten a ton of sales from it.”

She shared more reasons why winning such a prestigious award has benefited the company and what visitor feedback was from KBIS 2025. To learn more, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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How to Maximize Revenue with the Everyday Client

Cheryl Kees Clendenon, founder of Pensacola, Fla.-based In Detail Interiors and business strategist for designers and architects, sat down to share why the path to a profitable and rewarding design business doesn’t require chasing only luxury clients. Drawing on more than 25 years in the industry and nearly a decade coaching her peers, her insights encourage designers to look beyond the glossy “luxury” trend and consider the real power of serving the everyday client.

The Luxury Client Mindset Trap

“Designers seem to be over-concerned about catering only to luxury clients,” said Clendenon. “It’s constantly talked about in Facebook groups, in podcasts and all over the media. I think there’s an assumption that luxury automatically means more revenue or profit.”

She argues that success isn’t about the size of the client’s budget but about cultivating a “luxury mindset” – approaching both design and client relationships with care and aspiration, regardless of budget.

“I live in a small market,” she said. “We do have some high-end clients who want a $30,000 mohair sectional, but the truth is we’ve built impressive revenue by serving the everyday client. I’m not talking about people struggling paycheck to paycheck but rather the middle-market client who also wants good design.”

The Everyday Client Is Willing to Pay

One of Clendenon’s stories challenges the notion that only wealthy clients will invest in quality design. She recounts an initial consult where she almost wrote off a prospective client based on outward appearance and budget. Listen to the full podcast to hear how the clients made adjustments to come up with a more logical budget.

“These were not high-budget clients by industry standards, but they showed that when people understand the value of good design, they’ll find a way to invest in it,” said the designer.

Tapping The Untapped

Clendenon believes the middle market is too often overlooked by designers, many of whom are drawn to the glamorous image of luxury work. “Good design isn’t exclusive to the wealthy,” she explains. “If you promote your value effectively and show how a talented designer can help balance high and low, you open up opportunities in this market. It’s still largely untapped.”

We asked Clendenon what middle-market clients are going if certain designers think they are too low budget for them, to which she responded, “Maybe they do it themselves, but it seems like a missed opportunity all around.”

Key Takeaways

• Don’t write off the everyday client. Middle-market clients value good design and are willing to pay for quality and process.

• Cultivate a luxury mindset—not just a luxury price tag. Create exceptional client experiences at multiple budget levels.

• Communicate your value clearly. When clients understand what great design brings to their lives, they’ll make room in their budgets for your fee.

• The real secret of success isn’t the market you serve but how well you serve it.

For designers ready to grow their business, Clendenon’s advice is clear and refreshing. To learn more, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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Our overall Kitchen Product winner – as well as the winner of the Smart Technology category – was FreePower for Countertop, a groundbreaking, wireless charging technology that transforms everyday surfaces into powerful charging zones.

Jake Slatnik, the visionary founder of Freepower, shared his pride in these accolades during a recent interview. “We’ve received numerous awards, but the Kitchen Product of the Year from KBB holds a special place for us. It validates the hard work and creativity our team has poured into bringing cutting-edge technology to everyday life.”

The Inspiration Behind FreePower for Countertop

FreePower’s origin story began in 2017 when Jake Slatnik was frustrated by traditional wireless charging solutions and finding himself waking up with a dead phone several times a week because of misalignment with those limited charging ‘hotspots’ on traditional pucks. He wanted to transform entire surfaces into charging zones.

The concept matured over years of research, “Shark Tank” appearances and collaborations with major names. By 2024, FreePower had shifted focus to where it all began–creating charging-ready surfaces for homes.

Addressing Real-Life Needs with Adjustable Elegance

Slatnik says the kitchen stands out as an ideal charging zone since it is the heart of the home, and the kitchen island often serves as a workstation. Beyond kitchens, FreePower’s applications extend to bathroom vanities, nightstands and even office desks.

FreePower’s charging zone is subtly indicated by a glowing circular halo. For an even more innovative edge, the “Wave to Wake” feature allows the halo to remain hidden until activated by a simple wave over the surface. This means your elegant kitchen, vanity, or nightstand remains pristine, with lights only appearing when needed.

Collaborations with industry giants such as James Martin Vanities and Cosentino have even incorporated FreePower directly into vanities, blending design and technology effortlessly. During KBIS 2025, FreePower showcased these developments to outstanding acclaim.

Tune in to find out about additional features, such as the “Holiday Halo” and upcoming “Team Colors” that bring a touch of personalization.

Why KBB Product Awards Recognition Matters

For those considering submitting their innovations for industry awards, Slatnik offered simple advice: “Do it.” He further explained that awards like KBB’s carry significant weight, providing unparalleled visibility within the design and architectural communities. For FreePower, it wasn’t just about the honor but the opportunity to reach a wider audience of designers, retailers and homeowners. The awards also amplify the product’s credibility and visibility, especially as FreePower continues to redefine home convenience through subtly integrated, advanced technology.

To learn more about the 2025 KBB Product Awards and FreePower for Countertop, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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From her beginnings in medical science to becoming a leader in the male-dominated construction market, Leslie Dean Petosa – general contractor and the owner of Arlene Dean Homes in Atlanta – has proven that resilience, adaptability and curiosity can pave the way to success. Our latest From the Tap podcast discussion unpacks her career transition, challenges and insights for aspiring women in the construction market, delivering an engaging and empowering narrative.

A Story of Transformation

Initially trained and working as a medical professional in anesthesia, Petosa spent years in that field before contemplating a change. This pivot wasn’t an impulsive decision but one influenced by her mother, Arlene, the founder of Arlene Dean Homes. Her mother’s vision of building inspired her daughter to ride along with project managers, absorbing every detail of the construction process. Her first new construction project came in 2014, and by 2018, Petosa fully transitioned out of the operating room and onto the building site.

Why She Chose the Construction Market

Why would someone trade a career in anesthesia, with its stability and prestige, for the unpredictable world of construction? For Petosa, the answer was freedom and creativity. “I didn’t want to be confined inside four walls without windows,” she explained. Construction allows her to make her own schedule, work outdoors and engage with hands-on problem-solving in a way that ignites her passion.

Life as a Female General Contractor

For women considering entering the construction industry, Petosa offers valuable insights. While she encountered the occasional dismissive remark (“Oh, you’re just a woman,”), her approach has always been rooted in professionalism. “If I don’t know something, I admit it and find the answer,” she said. Her ability to remain calm and resourceful, paired with a strong commitment to respect and organization, has earned her respect in what can be a challenging industry.

Petosa also emphasizes the strengths women bring to construction, so listen to the podcast to hear more. These qualities, she believes, can significantly elevate the standards of construction management. Running a small construction business means Petosa wears many hats – from laying out plumbing plans and scheduling subcontractors to reviewing budgets and talking directly with clients. Though her days vary, one constant is her commitment to delivering excellence.

Advice for Aspiring Women in Construction

For women eager to break into construction, Petosa’s advice is simple but effective. During the podcast, she expanded on each point below.

• Learn on the job.
• Be proactive.
• Start small.
• Join professional organizations.

Petosa’s message to aspiring women in the field is inspiring, “Go for it – it’s a hands-on business that allows creativity and room to grow into leadership roles.” Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the rewards of stepping outside of comfort zones. For women considering a career change into construction, her advice is both practical and motivating. If you’re ready to take the leap, the field is wide open for trailblazers.

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On our most recent From the Tap podcast, we spoke to Jason McGraw, who is the KBIS show director. We took an in-depth look at all exciting things the 2025 show – which takes place from Feb. 25-27, 2025, has to offer.

KBIS is a not-to-miss event for the design and construction industry, and it has co-located with the International Builders’ Show as part of Design & Construction Week for the last 10 years. Your KBIS badge will get you in to see all the IBS exhibitors as well. It’s your ticket to the entire Las Vegas Convention Center.

“KBIS has become much more design centric in focus, and the exhibits are so magnificent; it’s a great opportunity to start off the year,” said McGraw. “You will see all the latest products, find out about the hottest trends and enjoy the serendipity of meeting with other design professionals at the show. It’s a can’t-miss opportunity.”

KBIS 2025 Hits & Highlights

The NKBA’s annual Voices from the Industry conference will feature 75 sessions this year, covering a variety of topics on different tracks, including business and sustainability. Show floor programming will also take place on the NEXTStage, at the Luxury Lounge and at the GlobalConnect Lounge, which will be located among the German, Italian, Brazilian and UK pavilions.

KBIS will feature some of the largest, well-known kitchen and bath brands, but take some time to visit some new exhibitors and see what they have to offer as well. The Discovery District in the South Hall is the perfect place for this. KBB will also host a tour of new-to-KBIS exhibitors in the South Hall.

In terms of networking events, the sky is the limit at KBIS 2025. The NKBA will host its Design + Industry Awards Monday evening before KBIS opens, and The Bash is the place to see and be seen on Wednesday evening.

On the NEXTStage, I will be interviewing the KBB 2024 Person of the Year – Alena Capra – at noon on Thursday, so do not miss that! The stage is also home to a host of awards programs, including DesignBites and Best of KBIS.

Navigating KBIS 2025

McGraw suggests downloading the mobile app before the show to preview the floor plans, schedules of events and exhibitors. It’s important to map out a plan because there is a lot of ground to cover. The KBB editors also shared their tips for making the most of three exhibit halls over three days.

Traversing three halls absolutely calls for comfortable shoes and clothing. You might want to bring along some snacks and a water bottle, but food service areas will also be open throughout the exhibit halls to ensure you are well fed during the show.

An underground Loop offers Tesla cars that can take to and from the exhibit halls, and it even covers some of the local hotels. So hurry up and book your flights and your hotel and join us at the not-to-miss industry event for design and construction professionals.

To find out more about KBIS 2025 and Design & Construction Week – including a celebrity appearance – listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.

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