In this episode of From the Tap, Christina Cruz tracks journey from a high-level marketing executive at BuzzFeed to founding her own interior design firm, highlighting how skills from the corporate world can fuel creative entrepreneurship.

Headshot: Marc Mauldin

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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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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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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.

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Selected from a highly competitive pool of entries, these award-winning projects represent the pinnacle of design, craftsmanship and project execution in today’s remodeling industry. Each winner has demonstrated exceptional attention to detail, creative problem-solving and a commitment to delivering outstanding results for homeowners.

“The National Remodeler of the Year winners truly represent the best of the best,” said Tracy Wright, CAE, CNAP, NARI Co-CEO. “These projects showcase not only incredible craftsmanship, but also the innovation, professionalism and dedication that define NARI members and elevate the remodeling industry as a whole.”

Recognizing Excellence Across the Industry

The RotY Awards are NARI’s most prestigious national honors, judged by industry experts and peers through a rigorous evaluation process. Projects are assessed on design innovation; problem-solving and functionality; aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship and execution.

This year’s competition was especially strong, with hundreds of submissions nationwide. From those entries, more than 159 Regional winners and over 40 National winners were selected, collectively representing more than $138 million in remodeling projects.

In addition to project-based honors, NARI also recognized outstanding individuals, companies and chapters through its Achievement Awards, which celebrate excellence beyond the jobsite. These awards highlight leadership, innovation, community impact, workforce development and contributions that strengthen the remodeling industry as a whole.

Achievement Award recipients exemplify the values that define NARI – professionalism, integrity and a commitment to advancing the industry – demonstrating that success is measured not only in projects completed, but in the positive impact made on teams, communities and the future of the trades.

Celebrating the Industry’s Finest

The 2026 National RotY winners and Achievement Award recipients were honored during the Evening of Excellence at the NARI Annual Conference, an event dedicated to celebrating the achievements and impact of remodeling professionals who are shaping the future of the industry.

Together, these awardees represent the full spectrum of excellence within NARI – from exceptional project execution to leadership, innovation and industry advancement.

These award-winning companies and individuals exemplify what it means to deliver Remodeling Done Right: combining technical expertise, ethical business practices and a deep commitment to client satisfaction.

Setting the Standard for Remodeling Nationwide

Each winning project not only transforms a home, but also reinforces the value of working with qualified professionals who adhere to NARI’s strict Code of Ethics and high standards.

From stunning kitchen transformations to complex whole-home renovations, and from workforce development leaders to industry advocates, this year’s awardees demonstrate how NARI members continue to raise the bar for quality, safety, innovation, and professionalism across the remodeling industry.

The 2026 Achievement Award Recipients

Chapter Community Service: NARI Pacific NW
Chapter Community Service: NARI of Greater Charlotte
Chapter Community Service: Austin NARI
Chapter Community Service: NARI Atlanta
Chapter President: Brett Clarke
Distributor of the Year: Ferguson Home
Mary Busey Harris, CAE Professionalism: Kim DiMaggio
Peter H. Johnson Image: Gordon B. Reese III
Workforce Development: NARI Madison
Workforce Development: Austin NARI
Workforce Development: Susan Raisanen
Workforce Development: Melany Fuentes
Workforce Development: NARI of Central Ohio
Workforce Development: NARI Milwaukee
Workforce Development: Bethany Martin
Lifetime Achievement: Jason Hensler
Lifetime Achievement: Don VanCura
Chapter Excellence: NARI of Greater Charlotte

View the full list of National Remodeler of the Year winners and their projects here.

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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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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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“After 37 years defining contemporary design in the U.S., we are making a move that reflects where the industry is going,” said ICFF Brand Directors Odile Hainaut and Claire Pijoulat. “Exhibitors and partners told us clearly and consistently that the spring international fair calendar had become too compressed, so it was time to take meaningful action. This was not a change for the sake of change, but a thoughtful decision shaped by years of listening, discussion, and considering what would best serve the industry.”

The trade show landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with tighter budgets, fewer travel opportunities, and increasing demands on brands and buyers alike. At the same time, the importance of in-person connection has never been clearer. Long recognized as a cornerstone of New York’s design calendar, ICFF’s move to November creates a more efficient and productive business environment while aligning more strategically with the global design calendar. The shift also expands opportunities for growth, participation, and international visibility among exhibitors and partners, creating a stronger stage for design in New York each fall.

ICFF and BDNY Deliver Complementary Experiences

Strategically timed with BDNY (Boutique Design New York), ICFF’s new dates will mark a new era for New York’s design industry. ICFF and BDNY will remain two distinct, independently curated trade fairs, each with its own identity, audience, and programming.

Taking place concurrently at the Javits Center, they will deliver complementary experiences that together create a broader, more dynamic platform for the high-end residential, hospitality, and commercial design industries. It reflects the growing convergence across sectors and the way designers, brands, and buyers engage today.

For ICFF, the November schedule expands access to key decision-makers across hospitality and commercial design while easing the constraints of the crowded spring calendar. For BDNY, this change introduces a complementary layer of high-end contemporary design, spanning global brands, emerging talent, and a broad range of furnishings, lighting, and materials.

Together, the two fairs will deliver greater value for exhibitors, attendees, and partners through shared timing and proximity, while maintaining each brand’s integrity and distinct positioning. In 2025, ICFF welcomed more than 13,000 attendees and BDNY drew over 16,000, with just a 10% overlap between their audiences, highlighting a significant opportunity to engage a broader cross-section of the design industry. With ICFF also comprising approximately 50% international exhibitors, the alignment is expected to expand reach, increase visibility, and strengthen return on investment across both platforms.

As ICFF enters its next phase, it builds on a long-standing tradition of bringing together the global design community through innovation, creativity, and exchange, now with greater scale, relevance, and opportunity than ever before.

To sustain momentum ahead of its November 2027 edition, ICFF will maintain a year-round presence through a series of key activations:
• Preview event at BDNY, November 6, 2026
• ICFF Lounge at BDNY with networking and programming, November 8-9, 2026
• Annual press preview, February 2027
• ICFF Night Out at NYCxDESIGN, May 2027

Together, these milestones will generate excitement ahead of the debut November 2027 edition of ICFF.

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“I am truly honored to step into the role of Chief Impact Officer,” said Erin McCusker. ” At LIXIL, creating a positive impact is not merely a strategic pillar – it is the essence of our purpose and a powerful catalyst for innovation and competitive advantage. LIXIL touches the lives of a billion people every day. By leveraging the diverse strengths of our global businesses and deepening vital collaborative partnerships across our global value chain, we will achieve our impact and growth targets and make a lasting contribution to society. I am committed to working alongside LIXIL’s leaders, our global teams, and our partners to drive resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth that directly translates into making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere.”

LIXIL’s Impact Strategy focuses on three strategic pillars – Global Sanitation & Hygiene, Water Conservation & Environmental Sustainability, and Diversity & Inclusion – that address pressing societal challenges while driving sustainable corporate growth. LIXIL has adopted a comprehensive three-phase approach to drive systemic impact integrating its targets into its own operations, its value chain, as well as expanding its impact to a broader societal ecosystem. This holistic framework enables LIXIL to create shared value through its business.

Global Sanitation & Hygiene: Targeting Improved Sanitation and Hygiene for Additional 100 Million People by FYE2031
LIXIL recently achieved its decade-long goal of improving sanitation and hygiene for 103 million people directly through its SATO social business and partnership initiatives. Today, LIXIL is recommitting to Global Sanitation & Hygiene as a strategic pillar, aiming to improve sanitation for an additional 100 million people by FYE2031 through the direct impact of our products and services, as well as the indirect impact generated by fostering partnership and ecosystems. LIXIL will now focus on accelerating the development of sustainable business models and market ecosystems through continued delivery of SATO and other products, policy and advocacy, skilled labor development, and financial access programs.

Water Conservation & Environmental Sustainability: Accelerating Circularity and Climate Action
LIXIL is advancing its efforts toward climate change mitigation and adaptation, water sustainability, and the realization of a circular economy under its Environmental Vision 2050. It achieved its 90% waste recycling target ahead of schedule (new target: 95% by FYE2031) and expects a 100% high-performance window sales ratio in Japan by FYE2026, which LIXIL commits to maintaining throughout FYE2031. Highlighting significant strides toward a low-carbon society, LIXIL reported robust progress in reducing Scope 1 & 2 (-46.9%, FYE2025), and Scope 3 (-18.5%, FYE2025) CO₂ emissions. To further ensure the achievement of Scope 3 emissions reductions and secure stable, sustainable procurement, LIXIL is exploring sourcing Green Aluminium¹ while upholding its long-standing 100% recycled aluminum usage commitment.

Diversity & Inclusion: Expanding Our Impact through Inclusive Innovation
LIXIL is strongly committed to a culture of inclusion and belonging by FYE2030, maintaining clear targets and implementing concrete measures to increase the representation of women in leadership across the organization. LIXIL recognizes that each diverse employee is a vital engine for innovation, enabling the creation of products and solutions that reflect the evolving needs of global consumers. Now, LIXIL aims to leverage the strengths of its inclusive corporate culture to generate broad societal ripple effects. LIXIL is collaborating with community partners to build a resilient ecosystem and cultivate a diverse pipeline of skilled tradespeople, thereby securing the future of the industry.

LIXIL’s elevated targets reflect its commitment to ensuring its societal contributions intrinsically fuel its commercial value amid intensifying global complexities such as climate change and shifting demographics. Long-term business sustainability is strengthened when business is a force for good.

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Above rendering: AI can support multiple stages of the design process – from developing early inspiration and testing materials in context to visualizing custom or conceptual elements before they’re built. AI-generated imagery by Jessica Nelson/AI for Interiors 

Here’s how I think about it. AI does not design for you. It does not make decisions for you. It is simply a tool that can take some of the heavier, more repetitive work off your plate so you can spend more time doing the parts of your job that you love or that truly require you. When it works well, it shows up in three main areas. 

1. Early Creative Work. AI can be helpful at the beginning of a project, when ideas are still loose and nothing is finalized. Instead of trying to find the exact reference image or struggling to describe a direction in words, you can explore a few options quickly. You can test different moods, materials or color directions before you commit to anything. This is not about creating finished designs. It is about helping you clarify what you are trying to say earlier in the process.

   Text-based tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini or Claude can help you organize your thoughts or put language to a concept. Visual AI tools like Nano Banana Pro, Archsynth or Midjourney can help you render 3D imagery or explore alternatives without needing to build everything from scratch. The value is speed, clarity and efficiency – not perfection. 

2. Business & Internal Work. This is where I find most designers feel the biggest impact. AI can help with things like proposals, internal documentation, onboarding materials, emails and meeting summaries. These are things every firm needs, but they take a lot of time as well as mental energy.

   Instead of starting from a blank page every time, you can give AI your messy brain dump and it can give you a solid starting point. You still review it, edit it and refine it. The difference is that it shifts the mental load from creating from scratch to refining a completed draft, often in just a few minutes. Even saving one or two hours per project adds up quickly. 

3. Client Communication. AI can also support client communication, especially in situations where tone matters. It can help you explain decisions more clearly, set expectations earlier or draft responses when conversations feel sensitive or emotionally charged. This is not about letting AI talk to your clients for you. It is about helping you slow things down, choose your words carefully and respond more intentionally. You are always the one deciding what gets sent.

Where Designers Get Stuck

The most common mistake I see is trying to do too much too fast. Designers download multiple tools, try to learn everything at once and end up frustrated. Nothing feels quite right, and the results feel generic. 

A better place to start is small. Pick one task that you do all the time – something that takes longer than it should and something that does not carry a lot of risk. Learn how AI can support that one thing first. Once that feels comfortable, you build from there. 

Another issue is expecting AI to know what you want without being told. It needs context. The clearer you are about the client, the project and what you are trying to achieve, the more useful it becomes. 

AI should make your workday feel easier, not more complicated. If it adds stress or confusion, something is off. When used well, it simply helps you move through your work with more clarity and less repetition. You stay involved. You stay in control. It just gives you a little breathing room.

The post How AI Can Help Designers and Potential Pitfalls to Avoid appeared first on Kitchen & Bath Business.

Above: The 2026 AHAM Board of Directors. Steve Polinski is pictured front row, second from left.

“I’m honored to be appointed First Vice Chair of AHAM, an organization that has been instrumental in growing the appliance industry. In this role, I look forward to championing standards and regulations that are technically sound, fair to manufacturers, and meaningful for consumers,” said Steve Polinski, Chief Product Safety Engineer and Regulatory Affairs Officer, Miele Inc.

Throughout his career at Miele and as a key member of AHAM, Polinski has shaped industry standards and regulatory policy, including the development of performance standards that promote safety and sustainability. A respected leader in government relations, he has engaged with both federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Department of Energy, demonstrating his ability to advocate for appliance manufacturers while upholding rigorous standards for consumers.

Polinski has played a strategic role in advancing AHAM’s mission through active participation in ANSI/AHAM standards development. He was instrumental in supporting AHAM’s acquisition of the Vacuum Cleaner Manufacturers Association, expanding the organization’s scope and influence, going on to serve as Chairman of the Floor Care Division and the Floor Care Division Government Relations Council. Ahead of his appointment to First Vice Chair, he has also served as AHAM Treasurer and as a member of its Executive Committee.

Polinski first joined Miele in September 2001 as a Regulatory Affairs Engineer, drawn to the brand’s commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and its unique culture as a family-owned business. Today, Polinski is based in the brand’s US headquarters in Princeton, NJ, serving as the organization’s Chief Product Safety Engineer and Regulatory Affairs Officer. In his current role, he supports the brand’s business units and central functions in bringing high-quality, reliable products to market that meet these expectations.

Looking ahead, Polinski aims to help the industry navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape in a way that enables fair competition and fosters responsible innovation that improves consumers’ everyday lives.

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Fabuwood, the leader in semi-custom cabinetry, is calling attention to its standing U.S. Kitchen & Bath Manufacturing Relief Program. The program is designed to support American homeowners impacted by U.S. manufacturer closures by offering a significant credit towards a Fabuwood order.

“We’re proud to offer a path forward for those in the tenuous position of being without answers mid-project,” said Joel Epstein, CEO of Fabuwood. “While economic fluctuations cause the industry to shift around us, Fabuwood remains steadfast in who we are as a company: reliable partners to the U.S. building industry. It’s important to us that we let those affected know this program exists so that we can use our resources and expertise to help.”

Relief is offered through a growing number of participating dealers for the amount previously put towards a 10% deposit, up to $3,000. The credit is valid for 45 days after a qualifying company closure and applies exclusively to U.S.-based manufacturers and assemblers, not importers. Eligible customers should fill out this form to be matched with a Fabuwood dealer; the ordering process can begin simply with proof of original deposit.

This program reflects an ongoing commitment to the American homeowner and industry at large, especially during periods of disruption, and will be active at least through the end of 2026. Fabuwood’s lead times – among the fastest in the industry – in addition to strong communication, product quality, and consistency make the manufacturer singularly qualified to step in with streamlined, forward momentum to get projects over the finish line.

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