May 29, 2023 | KBB Collective
The market has started to shift. Demand for new construction is cooling as temperatures rise on interest rates, leading to a boom in home renovations. Remodeling an existing home can be a good investment for people who have built equity…
Read More ›May 22, 2023 | KBB Collective
We have all heard the phrase, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” But there is so much more to it than meets the eye. Designers and remodelers need to ensure their images are more than just a cosmetically appealing…
Read More ›May 15, 2023 | KBB Collective
This article was originally published on May 15, 2023; it was updated on May 23, 2023. Owning and operating an interior design business can be both rewarding and challenging – particularly when it comes to boosting profits. While you may find…
Read More ›May 8, 2023 | KBB Collective
Decision fatigue doesn’t just affect your clients during that meeting where you asked them to make too many decisions. It also affects the success of all your following meetings, and hits your bottom line by making your projects less profitable….
Read More ›May 1, 2023 | KBB Collective
In years past, bathroom audio systems were more for the “wow” factor than actual functionality. Today’s smart devices, however, aren’t just for early adopters as they offer much more than streaming the latest chart-toppers as an accompaniment for singing in…
Read More ›April 24, 2023 | KBB Collective
As a design business owner, you probably think a lot about attracting more of your ideal clients. And with good reason – catching the eye of more ideal clients helps you get the design projects you’re always dreaming of. But…
Read More ›April 17, 2023 | KBB Collective
White kitchens have been a timeless design trend for years, and for good reason. They offer a clean, fresh, and timeless look that can be easily incorporated into any home. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of…
Read More ›April 10, 2023 | KBB Collective
Kitchen design formed around preparing and cooking meals for the family. This room serves as the workhorse for any home’s daily function. The kitchen triangle emerged as an efficient layout for three main areas to prepare, cook and clean, connecting…
Read More ›April 5, 2023 | KBB Collective
When I was an active kitchen designer and had reached the point of a final presentation with a client, sometimes they enjoyed their experience with me and my work enough that they would state outright they would like to hire…
Read More ›April 3, 2023 | KBB Collective
Are you feeling stuck on a thorny room-planning problem? Are your creative juices running dry? Need help figuring out a solution? Midjourney’s artificial intelligence bot can often help you. In this post, you will: 1. See one of my attempts…
Read More ›March 27, 2023 | KBB Collective
Today, decorating is often about mixing new and vintage pieces so a room reflects your client’s personality and also looks like it’s been crafted over time. So why settle for anything less in the kitchen? Nothing lends character to a…
Read More ›March 20, 2023 | KBB Collective
For our many clients who have furry family members, we take special care with interior design ideas that cater to their needs. As creative designers who are also pet families, we want to make sure we use pet-friendly materials and…
Read More ›March 13, 2023 | KBB Collective
Bathrooms are trending towards a sense of relaxation with calming hues, organic vibes and wellness components. We will witness a transitional style that incorporates both glam and rustic accents. Removing the bathtub to install a larger shower for two and increasing…
Read More ›March 6, 2023 | KBB Collective
A discussion point I frequently have with people is that the paint on the crown molding doesn’t match the paint on the cabinets. Or the paint color on this wall doesn’t match the paint color on that wall. Here are…
Read More ›February 27, 2023 | KBB Collective
Seasoned designer and KBB Editorial Advisory Board member Paula Kennedy – of Seattle-based Timeless Kitchen Design – shared her favorite KBIS product picks from the 2023 show. Beko’s Harvest Fresh refrigerator produce drawer storage (top photo) is like circadian rhythm for…
Read More ›February 27, 2023 | KBB Collective
Remodelers who have a place for clients to come visit have a definite advantage over those who are running their business from home, or those who do have an office but it is not conducive to hosting visitors. Just having…
Read More ›February 20, 2023 | KBB Collective
One of the most searched topics in 2022 by Pinterest users was “Emotional Escape Rooms”. This makes perfect sense to me. The combination of the stresses of the pandemic, the rising costs of everything and the political discourse we are…
Read More ›February 13, 2023 | KBB Collective
Last week, Mark Conacher (above), director of Liberty Fitting Service, traveled from Vancouver to attend the British Institute of Kitchen Bedroom and Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) annual conference in London. He kindly reports to KBB his takeaway on the meeting. At the…
Read More ›February 6, 2023 | KBB Collective
To start off the new year, we are setting our intentions and that begins with our health and wellness. Physically, we want to maintain healthy habits that will enable us to enjoy all that life brings; mentally, we will continue…
Read More ›January 30, 2023 | KBB Collective
Radioactive drinking water sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie. But as the saying goes, truth is often stranger than fiction. Within the past two years, U.S. regulators identified 56 new contaminants in drinking water, including pesticides and radioactive…
Read More ›January 23, 2023 | KBB Collective
The world of Instagram is ever-changing, with the algorithm switching its preferences on, what feels like, a weekly basis, it can sometimes feel hard to keep up. Generating content that feels fresh, engaging and targets your desired audience takes time…
Read More ›January 16, 2023 | KBB Collective
With everything getting more expensive and prices everywhere going up, what does it mean to be a “non-luxury” designer trying to help “regular” folks get happy at home? Just five years ago, I would have told clients that they could…
Read More ›January 9, 2023 | KBB Collective
The future is here. We are flooded daily by fast fashion trends, new health crazes and high-tech updates. For clients planning a home renovation, making sure you as a designer are on the forefront of future trends is probably on…
Read More ›January 2, 2023 | KBB Collective
As tile design trends have evolved in the past year or so, we’d like to acknowledge the role played by educated consumers. Often seeking ways to bring a resi-mercial look to their homes, they are being thoughtful with material choices throughout….
Read More ›December 26, 2022 | KBB Collective
To understand the circular future we’re moving towards, let’s first take a quick look at our current ‘linear’ model. We live in a world in which the economic system follows ‘take-make-waste’ logic. Our current ‘linear economy’ extracts finite resources to…
Read More ›December 19, 2022 | KBB Collective
Viva Magenta, the Pantone Color of the Year, is a nuanced crimson red tone that presents a balance between warm and cool. It’s also a hybrid color, one that comfortably straddles the physical and virtual, evocative of our multi-dimensional world….
Read More ›December 12, 2022 | KBB Collective
Effective lighting has always been the retailer’s friend and scientific research shows that natural light—sunlight—may be their very best friend. A seminal 1999 study, “Daylighting and Productivity” by environmental consulting firm Heschong Mahone Group, found that retail spaces lit with…
Read More ›December 5, 2022 | KBB Collective
If you are an interior or kitchen and bath designer, you may have noticed that business has begun to slow down. Many economic experts are saying that our economy and thus the market outlook is slowing down and that we…
Read More ›November 28, 2022 | KBB Collective
Slow living is a philosophy that has been discussed a lot in recent years. Slow living is a lifestyle with a focus on slower approaches to normal routines and aspects of everyday life. This philosophy has influenced many designers working…
Read More ›November 21, 2022 | KBB Collective
Looking ahead to 2023, lighting will continue to play a major role in residential design. Here are our trend predictions: Fixtures with flair Oversized sconces with an extremely long arm with a shade on the end Cone-shaped table lamps with…
Read More ›November 14, 2022 | KBB Collective
School is back in season and so updating laundry rooms with the greenest, state-of-the-art appliances has never been timelier! With that in mind, Jessica Petrino, educator and appliance expert at AJ Madison, a family-owned business with luxury showrooms in Washington,…
Read More ›November 7, 2022 | KBB Collective
Some of our most frequent questions from our business coaching clients are centered around press and the desire to get published. We often hear that our peers struggle with how to start, who to contact and what would be the…
Read More ›October 31, 2022 | KBB Collective
In today’s market, design professionals must rely on a multitude of digital technologies and solutions to stay competitive and satisfy clients. However, there is a delicate balance between keeping up with the latest trends and ensuring that your loyal clients…
Read More ›October 24, 2022 | KBB Collective
Color trends in the kitchen – everyone in the industry watches them. Does the white kitchen still reign supreme or are designers and consumers choosing to infuse color into this space? How do paint brands’ color-of–the-year announcements affect cabinetry design?…
Read More ›October 17, 2022 | KBB Collective
An analysis of TikTok data by The Underfloor Heating Store reveals that of the trending home renovation projects, “smart home” topped the list. Smart Home – 4.2 billion TikTok views Turning a house into a smart home not only modernizes…
Read More ›October 10, 2022 | KBB Collective
Big or small, it’s a space for gathering, entertaining, and, most importantly, eating. Everyone has different needs when it comes to the kitchen. Some desire maximum storage, others are looking for the ultimate chef’s kitchen, and some need to fit…
Read More ›October 3, 2022 | KBB Collective
A new study carried out by Atlas Ceramics has analyzed the most popular interior design trends and calculated the Google search volume of the trend in the last four years and the number of hashtags on TikTok and Instagram to…
Read More ›September 26, 2022 | KBB Collective
In our studio, when we begin any design project, the first order of business is to listen carefully to the homeowner while we assess their needs and goals for their newly designed kitchen. We discuss what works and most importantly…
Read More ›September 19, 2022 | KBB Collective
Welcome to the “new normal”. In these unprecedented times, the only thing that seems to be certain is a degree of uncertainty. The overall mood is dark, dystopian, and does not put many in the mood for a family-friendly remodel…
Read More ›September 12, 2022 | KBB Collective
Most remodelers are so busy that they forget to refresh their marketing image for the prospects arriving next week, next month and next year. The principle of not judging a book by its cover is outdated. The reality is, people…
Read More ›September 5, 2022 | KBB Collective
In celebration of National Dog Day, the experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery share the latest trend obsession of incorporating fido-first design into kitchen and mudroom design: BARKitecture! BARKitecture was initially used to describe the design and construction…
Read More ›August 29, 2022 | KBB Collective
I get it. You are excited to get the sale closed. Demand is making most designers crazy busy, and the projects are beginning to pile up and get overwhelming. The last thing you need is a client who decides to…
Read More ›August 22, 2022 | KBB Collective
A freshly updated kitchen can speak a thousand words about the taste, talent and vision of its designer. It reflects how sophisticated their choices are and how attentive they are toward the environment. If you are stepping into the world…
Read More ›August 15, 2022 | KBB Collective
How can we bring a healthier lifestyle into our homes? That is the question many clients ask during our initial design meetings. Creating a nurturing environment to add wellness and mindfulness into our daily routines is a standard component for…
Read More ›August 8, 2022 | KBB Collective
It’s natural for clients to have a few – or a lot – of questions when encountering new things. And considering this new thing involves a spray of water in personal areas, that goes two-fold for bidets. To help your…
Read More ›August 1, 2022 | KBB Collective
Demand for walk-in tubs is growing at double-digit annual rates. And while manufacturers report having enough supply to keep up, their growth is limited by the lack of qualified installers. “Every day, more baby boomers want a walk-in-tub so they…
Read More ›July 25, 2022 | KBB Collective
One of the first questions clients ask when we discuss their kitchen is “What’s the hot kitchen trend?” I usually respond that trends come and go, while great design is timeless. No, I am not a big follower of trends….
Read More ›July 18, 2022 | KBB Collective
When it comes to starting any kitchen or bath project, having a healthy foundation is critical. Any foundational issues in a home can compromise the integrity of the renovations and should affect the assessment of your scope and projected cost…
Read More ›July 11, 2022 | KBB Collective
One of the most common questions we get asked during our design consults at Seriously Happy Homes is whether someone should do an accent wall. Well, it’s not a cut-and-dry answer…there are quite a few things to consider when deciding…
Read More ›July 4, 2022 | KBB Collective
It’s no secret that our lives are becoming increasingly stressful. Demanding jobs, social media, and the 24-hour news cycle are all contributing factors. My clients are often looking for ways to streamline their homes and reduce anxiety in the process….
Read More ›June 27, 2022 | KBB Collective
Lighting is the foundation for defining our experiences and sets the mood for what happens in each space. Lighting design can determine how everyone, and everything looks and feels, based on personal choices. For that reason, we know that informed lighting…
Read More ›June 20, 2022 | KBB Collective
Overall, catastrophes can happen anytime, whether it is a flood, hurricane, tornado, earthquake or in my case, a wildfire. Our home was one of 1,084 that was destroyed in less than six hours in the Marshall Wildfire on Dec. 30,…
Read More ›June 13, 2022 | KBB Collective
Open floor plans have been all the rage for at least the last 20 years. While they are rock stars when it comes to entertaining and create vast sight lines, they generate their own set of challenges. How does one…
Read More ›June 6, 2022 | KBB Collective
Selecting and arranging artwork in a home can be a gratifying process for all involved. While science is only beginning to explore the emotional effects and benefits of art, people have been driven to produce and seek artwork throughout human…
Read More ›May 30, 2022 | KBB Collective
Cabinet hinges tell a story, a story which very few other aspects of cabinetry can tell. They tell the user about the quality, the aesthetic, the age, the use and the journey of a particular cabinet, box or furniture piece….
Read More ›May 23, 2022 | KBB Collective
Refrigerators and freezers are tasked with preserving fresh and frozen ingredients at a safe temperature for consumption. Today, the innovative smart technology and design advancements are phenomenal, with so many options to research when selecting what will work best in…
Read More ›May 16, 2022 | KBB Collective
As designers know well, exterior living and entertaining spaces are being kicked up a notch as the lines between indoor and outdoor design are blurring more and more each day. With outdoor amenities becoming just as easily accessible as what’s…
Read More ›May 9, 2022 | KBB Collective
With many of us spending more time at home lately – in the wake of the global pandemic and an increase in remote working – creating a healthy home environment has never been so important. Interior design plays an important…
Read More ›May 2, 2022 | KBB Collective
The properly equipped outdoor kitchen can make entertaining with friends and family more enjoyable and reduce the annoying back and forth between inside and out. It’s a seamless environment that fosters the best outdoor dining experience. The barbecue grill is…
Read More ›April 22, 2022 | KBB Collective
To mark Earth Day 2022, designers can continue to focus on ways to make their projects eco-friendly with products and technologies that target sustainability and reducing waste. From 100% recycled tile to water monitoring systems to the support of environmental…
Read More ›April 18, 2022 | KBB Collective
When designers and installers get together, for sure their relationship status on platforms like Facebook would say, “It’s complicated.” Never a marriage made in heaven but like any relationship, you get out what you put in and this professional relationship…
Read More ›April 11, 2022 | KBB Collective
Over the past two years, people have spent more time than ever at home, meaning our spaces have had to work harder, serving multiple purposes at once. We’ve also been doing things at home we’ve not had to do before…
Read More ›April 4, 2022 | KBB Collective
The past few years have been a rollercoaster for us all. Our increased time at home has given us a renewed look at how we live, whether it’s a home or apartment, no matter the regional location. And after close…
Read More ›March 28, 2022 | KBB Collective
When young people think of construction, they typically don’t think of a tech-savvy industry that’s full of digital tools and processes. As a more than 7,000 year-old industry, construction is notoriously known as being slow to adapt and try out…
Read More ›March 21, 2022 | KBB Collective
Breegan Jane, celebrity interior designer and Legrand brand ambassador, shares her take on color trends of the past, present and future. How have consumers’ color tastes changed over the last year? All the time being stuck indoors has left a lot of…
Read More ›March 14, 2022 | KBB Collective
Many exciting lifestyle movements emerge every year. The resulting trends also have an impact on interior design. As living and dining spaces, kitchens in particular are influenced by new lifestyles and eating habits, because this is where many aspects of…
Read More ›March 7, 2022 | KBB Collective
The residential architecture and design industry, by definition, has a fashion to it; trends that emerge because of aesthetic shifts or the need for homes to function in new ways. In the past few years, the change has been dramatic…
Read More ›February 28, 2022 | KBB Collective
Modern Farmhouse. This look seemed so specifically simple and trendy that I thought it would come and go in a few years, as many trends do. But the basic subway tile with charcoal grout, white-washed brick and reclaimed beams remain,…
Read More ›February 21, 2022 | KBB Collective
Two years ago, few could have imagined the extent of the effects the pandemic would have on the construction industry. All types of projects have been affected by the rising costs, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, two of the most…
Read More ›February 14, 2022 | KBB Collective
We can all agree that clutter and chaos are two things you do not want in your kitchen. With Google searches of “kitchen space hacks” increasing 100% in the past 12 months, utilizing small spaces is becoming increasingly popular. At Wren Kitchens,…
Read More ›February 7, 2022 | KBB Collective
Kitchen renovations are expensive no matter where you live, but homeowners pay a lot more to remodel in some parts the country than they do in others. According to data from HomeAdvisor, homeowners in Los Angeles pay nearly $10,000 more,…
Read More ›January 31, 2022 | KBB Collective
Where have all the installers gone? Hands up, who saw this trades crisis coming? For me, the current shortage of skilled tradespeople, which includes kitchen and bathroom installers, is no big shock. I remember being a 16-year-old apprentice and my…
Read More ›January 24, 2022 | KBB Collective
New research from UK home insurance service provider Confused.com has revealed the design elements people really notice when they visit the bathroom. Eye-tracking software was used to identify the total number of times people looked at different components of the bath. Fixation rankings were…
Read More ›January 17, 2022 | KBB Collective
Plans serve as the roadmap to fully executing a new build or renovation project. Without them, there can be a lot of miscommunication, which result in expensive mistakes. This means the plans must be accurate and should be reviewed by…
Read More ›January 10, 2022 | KBB Collective
CES 2022 took place last week from January 5-7 in Las Vegas, and although I didn’t attend in person, I wanted to share my virtual report on some – but by no means all – of the latest in appliance…
Read More ›December 27, 2021 | KBB Collective
With so much hustle-and-bustle taking place in the heart of the home – especially at the holidays – it is especially important that the kitchen be a place of delight. To accomplish this, here are some tips to use as…
Read More ›December 24, 2021 | KBB Collective
It’s well known that smart audio speakers recognize voices and can distinguish among different voices, so it wasn’t a big surprise when it became possible to control smart kitchen appliances with voice. What is a really big surprise is that…
Read More ›December 20, 2021 | KBB Collective
Very Peri, the Pantone Color of the Year for 2022, encompasses the qualities of the blues, yet at the same time possesses a violet-red undertone, and displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative…
Read More ›December 13, 2021 | KBB Collective
Many months spent cooking at home has spurred a renewed desire to invest in the kitchen. Whether it’s the sourdough starter we’ve been nurturing since March 2020 or a burgeoning need for upgraded storage, the pandemic has shaped the future…
Read More ›December 6, 2021 | KBB Collective
The skilled trades are long-term careers with great benefits, fulfilling work and high salaries – and they’re looking for tech-savvy people. FABTECH, North America’s largest fabrication and manufacturing exposition, offered insights on how technology has changed the trajectory of the…
Read More ›November 29, 2021 | KBB Collective
Influencer marketing involves endorsements and product placement from people who have an expert level of knowledge or influence in a community. From a designer standpoint, you will learn what brands are looking for in a partnership to provide stellar content….
Read More ›November 22, 2021 | KBB Collective
If your customer wants to get ahold of you, what do they do? Email you? Facebook message? Text your personal cell at 9PM? Right now, design pros and builders are so overwhelmed with work that you probably feel pulled in…
Read More ›November 15, 2021 | KBB Collective
Everyone knows what they like…once they see it. That adage has stood the test of time and is still true today. Designers have always been tasked with trying to convey their vision to the client, using everything from physical samples…
Read More ›November 8, 2021 | KBB Collective
Many designers utilize feng shui principles to better harmonize people and their living and working environments. Using search- and data-analytics tools, PsychicWorld.com took a deep dive on Pinterest to identify the most popular feng shui design trends of the past…
Read More ›November 1, 2021 | KBB Collective
Happy Fall! To help you get your home ready, here are some fall interior design tips on ways to bring the outdoors indoors (with a few fun, modern twists): Bold Colors, Textures & Patterns. Focal pieces are supposed to be showstoppers….
Read More ›October 25, 2021 | KBB Collective
Starting a new kitchen or bath project for your clients can be daunting – where do you even begin the design process? Purchasing cabinetry for your project can seem like a challenging task, but with the proper guidance, this whole experience can…
Read More ›October 18, 2021 | KBB Collective
Experiential marketing campaigns, also known as activations, deliver an immersive brand experience for a smaller but more targeted audience. When executed on a mobile platform, they bring the experience directly to a customer. Manufacturers can focus on specific companies and…
Read More ›October 11, 2021 | KBB Collective
The kitchen is the heart of any home – the space for everyday living whether gathering for family meals, completing homework at the table or serving up memorable moments for relatives and friends. As the most utilized room in a…
Read More ›October 4, 2021 | KBB Collective
When it comes to your kitchen design, don’t forget the finishing touches to create a sophisticated space. Your clients’ kitchens need to reflect their personality and style, which is where detailed work shows its true value. Focusing on the smaller…
Read More ›September 27, 2021 | KBB Collective
Entertaining is more effortless than ever before with modern kosher kitchen appliances equipped with Shabbos Mode and STAR-K certification. In addition to keeping meals warm and ingredients fresh during Shabbos and Yom Tov, these appliances offer incredible features for cooking…
Read More ›September 20, 2021 | KBB Collective
Fall is nearly here, and whilst the burnt orange fallen leaves are aesthetically pleasing, it also means shorter and chillier days. Much like the importance of changing our attire in line with seasons, interior design can provide homeowners optimized efficiency…
Read More ›September 13, 2021 | KBB Collective
Wren Kitchens has researched2 the most popular design styles across the country, and it turns out that more than a quarter of U.S. states are a big fan of the modern look, with industrial and rustic following as the top choices. Over…
Read More ›September 6, 2021 | KBB Collective
We hear a lot about sustainability, and we know it’s something that’s supposed to be good for us. Yet most of us are not quite sure what it means to be sustainable or how we can teach our clients to…
Read More ›August 30, 2021 | KBB Collective
In our business, the kitchen and bathroom are the engines that drive the train. You are the conductor, so don’t forget the other cars coupled together. Impress the prospective customer with your expertise envisioning the other rooms that enhance their…
Read More ›August 23, 2021 | KBB Collective
Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most popular renovation projects among homeowners, according to the 2021 Houzz & Home study. With so many design elements to consider – from fittings and fixtures to hard surfaces and accessories – these…
Read More ›August 16, 2021 | KBB Collective
Understanding how to navigate today’s social media landscape can be challenging, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. This blog will outline small social strategies that can significantly impact your business quickly and succinctly. Focus on a Few Select Platforms for…
Read More ›August 9, 2021 | KBB Collective
Nate Berkus is the most searched for interior designer in the U.S., new research can reveal. The designer and TV personality pulls in nearly 50,000 searches per month – higher than any other designer on the list, including husband Jeremiah…
Read More ›August 1, 2021 | KBB Collective
With TikTok catering to every niche, it’s no surprise its popularity is only continuing to grow. Interior design is one such niche – with designers taking to the platform to showcase their work – that has proved to be a huge…
Read More ›July 23, 2021 | KBB Collective
Life is more hectic than ever before, however, your clients don’t have to book a weekend at a costly resort to have a Zen sanctuary. They can experience the bathroom as the new personal, spa-like retreat. By incorporating serene elements…
Read More ›July 16, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Elizabeth Aaron, Elizabeth Aaron Interior Design After months of work, another renovation is complete. Before hugging my client goodbye, I share my tricks of the trade in caring for the beautiful finishes my crew just installed. The right cleaning…
Read More ›July 8, 2021 | KBB Collective
Nar Bustamente of Sacramento, Calif.-based Nar Design Group always taught his daughter, Kailani, about interior design – whether or not she ultimately became interested in the field professionally. “Since she was born, I’ve brought her onto the job sites,” said…
Read More ›July 1, 2021 | KBB Collective
Luxury means something different to every client. One might find a steam oven and an eight-burner stove to be fancy, while another considers low-VOC cabinets and improved air ventilation to be lavish. Every client also wants some degree of luxury,…
Read More ›June 24, 2021 | KBB Collective
With more than 2,000 exhibitors and 12 million square feet of show space, there is always a lot to explore at High Point Market. If you didn’t make it to this bi-annual event this year, here are some trend forecasts, tips…
Read More ›June 18, 2021 | KBB Collective
Marble is arguably the most beautiful countertop material on the market. However, as someone who spends most of my day in the kitchen, personally I wouldn’t want something that requires so much maintenance. If your client spends a lot of…
Read More ›June 11, 2021 | KBB Collective
Some time ago (pre-COVID), I attended a presentation by the editor-in-chief of Dwell Magazine on color trends through the decades. What really struck me was the presenter’s take on home design in the 21st century and the influence of apps…
Read More ›June 3, 2021 | KBB Collective
According to recent research, two-thirds of Americans have had an ‘eco wake-up call’ since the start of the pandemic. New data from Roofing4Us suggests Americans are now more concerned with eco-friendly home renovations than ever before. “As people become more…
Read More ›May 28, 2021 | KBB Collective
In my opinion, there are three categories of kitchen cabinets: good, better and best. How do you know what to look for in a cabinet? What makes a good cabinet and what makes a better cabinet? Why is there such…
Read More ›May 20, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Semistories by Semihandmade Color has become a big part of recent renovations, especially considering the turmoil of the last year. The bathroom is still seeing mostly natural and relaxing colors, but it is in the kitchen where the bold…
Read More ›May 13, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Natalia Pierce Lighting can be one of the most complex elements of good design. Understanding the technical values of lighting – Kelvins, CRI, lumens, beam angle, photometrics and so on – make selecting the optimum layout and fixtures seem…
Read More ›May 13, 2021 | KBB Collective
Over the last 12 months, many of us have been cooking at home more than ever. Google searches for “family recipes” and “easy family dinners” have seen a 110% increase over the past year. Encouraging children to start cooking at…
Read More ›May 6, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Sharon Sherman You have heard stories of great remodels and of horror story remodels. What separates the two? In my opinion, it is the team you hire – especially the general contractor. It’s Not Only About the Price Benjamin…
Read More ›April 30, 2021 | KBB Collective
Designers Nina Magon of Houston-based firm Contour Interior Design and Anthony Gianacakos of New York City-based firm Anthony George Home have offered up their expert tips and go-to products to create the ultimate at-home bar. Whether it’s a stylishly stocked…
Read More ›April 22, 2021 | KBB Collective
As a designer, I have seen some things that consumers do in their homes that I may not love – but totally understand – because they are not trained or experienced in interior design. I just love to see homeowners…
Read More ›April 15, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Julie Schuster The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is the voice of the kitchen and bath industry in the U.S. and has been for more than 50 years. Presented in conjunction with the National Kitchen and Bath Association…
Read More ›April 14, 2021 | KBB Collective
Pet-friendly kitchens are definitely on the rise, with many people working from home over the past year and spending more time with their pets. The last year saw a 118% increase in Google searches for “pet-friendly kitchen,” and “dog bed…
Read More ›April 9, 2021 | KBB Collective
Showhouses are finally coming back, and recently designer Meg Lavalette of Lava Interiors was charged with overhauling the kitchen in the Kingston Design Showhouse. Lavalette drew inspiration for the Italian-style kitchen from the home’s original Italian-style architecture, which helped her…
Read More ›April 2, 2021 | KBB Collective
Recently, a prospective client called me and asked if my firm would do just a bathroom renovation. I thought that was an interesting question, since bathroom renovation is exactly one of the services we offer. As it turns out, not…
Read More ›April 1, 2021 | KBB Collective
When you hear us say the COVID-19 pandemic has had at least one benefit, please don’t think we’ve lost our minds. And you might just agree. Having to spend so much time inside our homes has changed the focus to…
Read More ›March 26, 2021 | KBB Collective
This past December, I found myself saying yes to my father’s offer to renovate our guest bath. I was nearly eight months pregnant – that bathroom would also be the baby’s – and the space was straight out of the…
Read More ›March 22, 2021 | KBB Collective
Some of these decorating trends should have been long gone, but consumers held on to them for far too long. Some of the trends I will mention are not in and of themselves bad, but their overuse or inappropriate uses…
Read More ›March 5, 2021 | KBB Collective
I always have and always will love puzzles. To sit for a weekend with a difficult puzzle that looks like clutter and chaos and to put it together to create a nice, neat and beautiful picture sounds blissful to me….
Read More ›February 26, 2021 | KBB Collective
Take a guided tour of 2021 top kitchen design trends forecast by such industry leaders as Houzz, the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the American Society of Interior Design. Here, Kitchen Magic’s manager of design innovation and product development,…
Read More ›February 12, 2021 | KBB Collective
Trends come and some trends go. While design for wellness may not have been top of mind for homeowners before COVID-19, it surely is now – even if they don’t know that the items at the top of their wish…
Read More ›February 5, 2021 | KBB Collective
Clients tend to want to go bolder in the smaller bathrooms in their abodes. The same was true for this powder room in a Fort Lauderdale, Fla., home for a younger couple. Alena Capra, owner of Alena Capra Designs, pulled…
Read More ›January 29, 2021 | KBB Collective
Once the economy is opened up will it be business as usual? Many companies are looking at how working from home may become the new normal. What if a temporary set up needs to become a more permanent workspace? Here…
Read More ›January 29, 2021 | KBB Collective
John Weinstein has been in the plumbing/kitchen and bath industry for almost 30 years, working with brands on distribution and helping them grow their sales channels in North America. For the past four years, he has served as the director…
Read More ›January 22, 2021 | KBB Collective
When we talk about luxury, the first thing we think about is glamour – something sophisticated and especially something expensive. But the truth is that true luxury is being able to enjoy the little things, what we like and the…
Read More ›January 15, 2021 | KBB Collective
KBB spoke with Diana Viera, managing partner at ITALKRAFT, an Italian design firm that specializes in custom kitchen and bathrooms, to find out which trends she sees moving into our new year. Colorful kitchens. In the past, white and monotone…
Read More ›January 7, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Scott Koehler When it comes to technology for kitchen and bath businesses, let’s focus on three categories: design applications, business applications and home automation applications. Just 30 years ago, all of these were in start-up mode or didn’t even…
Read More ›January 1, 2021 | KBB Collective
By Lacey Hutchinson, The Olde Mill and Ourso Designs Reclaimed wood – with all of its age, character and rustic appeal – is not going away anytime soon in interior design. Whether used as a ceiling beam, open shelves or…
Read More ›January 1, 2021 | KBB Collective
Plans for 2020 kitchen design and beyond for clients will be different moving forward. Everyone is spending more time at home. Restaurants are not as accessible as they were, and everyone seems to have had at least one Zoom cocktail…
Read More ›December 25, 2020 | KBB Collective
Pantone recently announced its 2021 Colors of the Year – Ultimately Gray and Illuminating – as two hues shaping fashion, interior design, architecture and art in the unpredictable year ahead. These two independent colors highlight how different elements come together…
Read More ›December 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Mark Rosenhaus I believe in using the whole world of art as inspiration in kitchen projects. I also have a great affinity for architecture, sculpture and movement, and my work style as non-linear; it is more about the arrangement than…
Read More ›December 17, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Jonathan Rowland, Rowland Cabinet Consultants After 25 years in an industry, you start to feel like you have things figured out. Then something like a global pandemic comes around and shows you a new way to do business. Over…
Read More ›December 14, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Patricia Gaylor The week after the Christmas holiday has always made me more aware of how wasteful we are at this time of year. Just by simply driving around at that time and seeing what’s put out for trash…
Read More ›December 10, 2020 | KBB Collective
The Lola and Atlanta Decorative Arts Center recently co-hosted a virtual session on Serene Living: Designing a Space that Supports Calmness and Positivity into the New Year. Several Atlanta-based designers shared their input on this timely topic as more clients…
Read More ›December 3, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Maria Jesus Garcia Our lifestyle is changing, and now we spend much more time indoors. The kitchen has not only become the social center of our home but also the workplace. And when it comes to renovating a kitchen,…
Read More ›November 27, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Mercedes Austin 2020 has been an adventure. In honor of reflecting on what was hot in bathroom tile design, I’m highlighting the top three most significant things my team and I have seen while navigating the past year: #1:…
Read More ›November 19, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Vivek Agrawal Whether you’re designing a brand-new kitchen or renovating an old one, your budget for sourcing furniture is bound to be sizeable. And while you may be interested in economic options for kitchen décor, durability and beauty are…
Read More ›November 19, 2020 | KBB Collective
Estonian designer Hiie Harm of Hiie Harm Design recently faced an unusual challenge: creating an American-style kitchen for a Northern European family of six. Most European kitchens, particularly in the Scandinavian region, are on the small side, with minimalist lines…
Read More ›November 13, 2020 | KBB Collective
Despite the challenges of 2020, Spanish manufacturers have worked to create new designs, technologies and innovations in tile. Tile of Spain, the international brand representing 125 ceramic tile manufacturers belonging to the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer’s Association (ASCER), delved into…
Read More ›November 13, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Natalia Pierce In light of the current global pandemic, the awareness of the air quality in our immediate environment has increased – from the pre-pandemic 2 to 4 percent to an overwhelming 97 to 99 percent today, according to…
Read More ›November 5, 2020 | KBB Collective
Designer Leslie Stern’s clients originally just wanted to update their 1970s kitchen. However, one client was in her 80s, and Stern suggested that she would get the most out of a kitchen that also catered to her needs as she…
Read More ›November 5, 2020 | KBB Collective
ADAC, Business of Home, Kravet and Made Goods recently collaborated to present a day of informative sessions to the interior design industry. KBB was able to sit in on a few of the virtual presentations, including “From Woo to Win:…
Read More ›November 2, 2020 | KBB Collective
ADAC, Business of Home, Kravet and Made Goods recently collaborated to present a day of informative sessions to the interior design industry. KBB was able to sit in on a few of the virtual presentations, including “Creating a Profitable and…
Read More ›November 2, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Mark Luscombe Many people working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic have considered this time as an opportunity to look around and decide to do some fixing up around the home. Several reported surveys have indicated that three quarters…
Read More ›October 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Wendi Albee, Albee Interior Design We learn a lot about people when we redesign their bathrooms. Sometimes too much! Like doctors and priests, we swear ourselves to confidentiality – but that doesn’t mean we can’t share tips on how…
Read More ›October 15, 2020 | KBB Collective
Lighting is the unsung hero of design. Without proper illumination, a high-functioning kitchen layout can be dangerous and unproductive, and a spa-like bathroom can feel dim and sad. But with correct, beautiful lighting, every corner of a well-designed space will…
Read More ›October 15, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Darren Watts, Wren Kitchens As the leaves start to fall, the days start to get gloomier and the landscape changes in color around us. This soft change of season is the perfect time of year to make the home…
Read More ›October 9, 2020 | KBB Collective
No one wants to do a renovation every five years – or even every decade. Instead, when a client comes to you for a new design, they are hoping that new kitchen will appear as beautiful and functional in 15…
Read More ›October 1, 2020 | KBB Collective
A new survey conducted by Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery explored how consumers’ view home design home remodeling amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some of their key findings: Americans have many reasons for renovating or building a home,…
Read More ›September 28, 2020 | KBB Collective
As a Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) Design Council Member, Joan Ravasy was tasked with creating a computer-generated kitchen design to highlight the company’s offerings. The designer, owner of Ravasy Design LLC in Lebanon, N.J., is one of 11 Design Council…
Read More ›September 25, 2020 | KBB Collective
With a new season coming up, it’s an exciting time to revamp those spaces and turn them into modern, sophisticated, inviting and comfortable environments. Here are five interior design trends for 2020 that your clients will love: 1. Multifunctional Spaces…
Read More ›September 17, 2020 | KBB Collective
The CEDIA Virtual Expo – the digital version of the smart home show – took place this past week and offered continuous webinars, product reveals and networking opportunities over three days. KBB sat in on many sessions, one of which…
Read More ›September 17, 2020 | KBB Collective
The one constant this year has been change. I think being in the event business, we understand this as well as anyone navigating the current climate. We are working very hard behind the scenes to deliver an extraordinary event just…
Read More ›September 10, 2020 | KBB Collective
The laundry room has definitely improved since its days as a dingy, utilitarian-style space. Today it is not only meant to be beautiful but also a multi-functional, organized place that homeowners want to spend time in. This week’s KBTribeChat discussed…
Read More ›September 10, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Chelsie Butler I am sure by now you have all seen Facebook’s “Care”emoji. I use it a lot when I see posts that illustrate that – although COVID is still a huge deterrent to getting back to normal any…
Read More ›September 10, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Bill Darcy, NKBA CEO As we go to press, we’ll be marking roughly 18 weeks of pandemic restrictions and about eight weeks of civil unrest and reflection that have shined a renewed spotlight on racial inequalities in our country….
Read More ›September 3, 2020 | KBB Collective
It can be difficult to sell what some consumers consider a luxury item – creativity and beauty – in a solid economy, let alone an unprecedented, difficult year like this one. During 2020 Connect, a virtual trade show hosted by…
Read More ›September 3, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Bill Darcy, NKBA CEO Like many industries, ours is a relationship business. Unlike many other industries, kitchen and bath designers and remodelers are involved in homeowners’ lives – for a relatively short period, anyway – in an intensely intimate…
Read More ›August 27, 2020 | KBB Collective
Since most consumers are mixing their drinks at home these days, many are going to start looking to create designated bars in their own spaces. Designer Jennifer Hutton of Buffalo, N.Y.-based Artisan Kitchens and Baths recently created this fun wet…
Read More ›August 21, 2020 | KBB Collective
This is the first of a series of periodic columns written by designers and contractors as to how their homes were not ready for a short- or long-term challenge that we all may face – personally, through family members or…
Read More ›August 20, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Sadie Scotch Aging-in-place home remodeling is not a new concept brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, but daily searches for specialists in this field are on the rise – and this is no doubt directly related to the tragic…
Read More ›August 13, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Lloyd Princeton, Design Management Company Typically, recessions are triggered by some kind of economic calamity – such as the housing bubble burst in 2008 that sent shockwaves through the banking and financial services industry, driving the rest of the…
Read More ›August 6, 2020 | KBB Collective
From cooking to conversations, all the way to homework help and parties, the kitchen truly is the heart of the home. Over time, the average American spends an average of 7.7. days in the kitchen each year. With such a…
Read More ›July 31, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Lori Dolnick If you are like most, you’ve pivoted to the virtual world. You’ve Zoomed with clients and repurposed existing content on social. But the novelty of these activities is wearing off, and we’re hearing from clients and designers…
Read More ›July 24, 2020 | KBB Collective
Kitchens are among the most important spaces, and naturally I’m highly passionate about its significance in the home and how tile can impact these rooms. Keeping these simple decorating tips in mind will help you make the most out of…
Read More ›July 20, 2020 | KBB Collective
Even with current events, the good weather this time of year has us all feeling at least a little more upbeat and positive. So why not reflect this in the heart of the home? To help professionals stay on top…
Read More ›July 10, 2020 | KBB Collective
One of the biggest questions for the kitchen and bath industry is the future of the traditional showroom. Virtual options are growing in popularity, but when it comes to residential renovations, clients still want to touch and feel what they…
Read More ›July 2, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Lori Dolnick I’ll tell you the biggest secret of marketing on every platform. And I’ll prove it works with one proven tip we’ve tested for our clients on every platform you target. The biggest issue facing companies and brands…
Read More ›July 2, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Dianne M. Pogoda Space might be tight, but it doesn’t mean design has to be suffocated. NKBA’s webinar series for July, generously sponsored by Blum, focuses on the intricacies of maximizing style and efficiency in a small space. Each…
Read More ›June 25, 2020 | KBB Collective
It goes without saying that the Covid-19 crisis will have a huge impact on companies and businesses. With so many organizations having discussions about bringing their staff back in, there’s an increased debate about what businesses will need to do…
Read More ›June 19, 2020 | KBB Collective
Believe it or not, it’s halfway through the crazy – and not so fun – year of 2020. To recognize the date, this week’s KBTribeChat looked at what’s hot and trending so far this year. The Looks Seen Today in…
Read More ›June 12, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Kerrie Kelly Images Courtesy of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab Long, meditative walks in the morning, an afternoon yoga session after work, essential oils and aromatherapy before bed – even if these practices aren’t a part of your daily routine,…
Read More ›June 4, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Julie Schuster With COVID-19 cancelling travel plans across the board, and physical distancing drastically limiting group gatherings, outdoor spaces have never been more crucial to our health and well-being. Whether you have a patio, deck, rooftop or backyard, chances…
Read More ›May 29, 2020 | KBB Collective
Move over millennials – there’s a new group of young people on the horizon for the housing industry. Gen Z – the group born in the mid-to-late 1990s and up until 2010 – is beginning to emerge in the workforce…
Read More ›May 21, 2020 | KBB Collective
by Linda Holt Friday, May 8th marked week eight of my isolating at home. In one sense the time has flown by. Then, I look at my gray roots and shaggy hair and realize just how long it’s really been….
Read More ›May 15, 2020 | KBB Collective
Personal hygiene and virus protection are top of mind as we navigate the pandemic. While we understand the most effective steps to slow the transmission of airborne pathogens like the coronavirus, we also know bacteria, mildew and mold can also…
Read More ›May 11, 2020 | KBB Collective
Photography by Francisco Álvarez, The Raws Amid a pandemic, many awards and recognitions are still able to happen – including the recent 2020 Ceramics of Italy Tile Competition. The residential winner, architect Mario Bolivar of Mario Bolivar Studio de Arquitectura…
Read More ›April 30, 2020 | KBB Collective
While safety is changing the way we work, running a successful meeting – either with clients or team members – will always be a key part of doing business in the building industry. During this time of social distancing, homes…
Read More ›April 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
I had the opportunity to talk to kitchen and bath industry brands recently about the effects COVID-19 is having on business and their appliance sales and service. I wanted to find out if there are spikes in appliance sales caused…
Read More ›April 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
April 22 marked the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, and what a strange Earth Day it was. While sheltering in place and still battling fears of a deadly virus, people are truly appreciating when they do get to be outdoors…
Read More ›April 20, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Amy Ahearn, Decorating Den Interiors How many times have you said, “Why did they hire me when they don’t listen to anything I say?” The hardest reality of design and sales in our industry – or most likely any…
Read More ›April 20, 2020 | KBB Collective
With an unprecedented pandemic grinding normal life to a halt, no one knows what’s going to happen in the coming months. Instead, we are looking to countries that have already been through this to see how we can better prepare…
Read More ›April 9, 2020 | KBB Collective
Whenever this time of shelter-in-place, living with some degree of fear and working remotely – or not working at all – passes, it is likely everyone will pay much more attention to their homes and whether or not they promote…
Read More ›April 9, 2020 | KBB Collective
It might be a dark time for the global population, but for the natural world it’s springtime. Usually this time of year has most of us feeling more energetic and productive, so why not reflect this in the heart of…
Read More ›April 3, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Susan Serra The idea that “the kitchen is the heart of the home” has never been truer. How will this dramatic period of time we are currently in shape our relationship to food, cooking and to kitchen design in…
Read More ›March 26, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Kerrie Kelly, Kerrie Kelly Design Lab With mandatory lockdown on the calendar, our team definitely wanted to create safe ways to continue to engage with our valued clients – e-meetings, Zoom calls and online information shares – but we…
Read More ›March 26, 2020 | KBB Collective
This article is courtesy of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) A few weeks ago, your day-to-day world consisted of your home, your car, an office, maybe a school. Now, you are among the millions across North America who…
Read More ›March 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
With probably a long haul of social distancing in front of us, industry professionals are innovating the way they communicate with clients, contractors and each other. Fortunately, technology is stepping up and supplying that essential communication the industry needs to…
Read More ›March 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
This article originally appeared on the NAHB website. The coronavirus pandemic has caused many disruptions and may well impact residential construction in the coming weeks or months. Last week, California issued a far-reaching “stay-at-home order” for its 40 million residents. This order…
Read More ›March 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Julie Schuster, Julie Schuster Design Studio Now is the time to retreat, restore and hibernate. I recently used this period to read The Four Agreements, a powerful and critically-acclaimed self-help book and spiritual guide by Don Miguel Ruiz. His…
Read More ›March 23, 2020 | KBB Collective
Last week’s show revealed the industry’s best innovations, artistic products and creative additions to the kitchen and bath industry. There were popular products and styles that we expected, while some others were surprising but no less delightful. Here are just some of the top trends the KBB editors spotted at the show: COLOR. Pantone’s Classic…
Read More ›March 16, 2020 | KBB Collective
It’s a little scary out there. Most everyone is working from home (including the staff at KBB), most events and gatherings have been canceled or postponed, and panic-buying is now the new norm. We’ve been gathering insight from designers across the nation (see our latest news feature HERE) and will continue covering how the virus…
Read More ›March 5, 2020 | KBB Collective
When home technology is included in a project, it’s even more important to have everyone on the team knowledgeable about the design and the product itself. That can be challenging when technology is constantly evolving and updating – particularly when it’s your job to install it. KBB spoke with contractor and HGTV star Chip Wade…
Read More ›February 27, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Sabrina Garcia, Wayne, Penn.-based Exquisite Designs Fixtures are not just utilitarian pieces in a kitchen or bath; today plumbing can be a highlight and a focus in a design. In the luxury market in particular, where customization and smart technology reign, trends include bold finishes, wellness-focused design and attention to detail. Below are some…
Read More ›February 20, 2020 | KBB Collective
I’m still thinking about all the great, beautiful and innovative products at KBIS this year. It’s a lot to cover in three or four days, and as exhausting as it was, I could have used more time! Thank goodness for all the postings from our fellow designers, groups and blog tours, etc. But it’s still…
Read More ›February 20, 2020 | KBB Collective
There is a reason kitchen and bath companies seek out advertising agencies to assist with their catalog design. Good brands – regardless of their size or their budget – recognize that every collateral piece is a direct reflection of their products, quality, craft and authenticity. And when we are asked to design a catalog or brochure, it’s…
Read More ›February 18, 2020 | KBB Collective
This past week, KBB got a glimpse of what Salone del Mobile.Milano – the annual design show in April – will reveal, including products from prominent European kitchen and bath manufacturers and a few new events and projects. This year is also one of the biannual occurrences of EuroCucina, the International Bathroom Show and FTK…
Read More ›February 8, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Mark Rosenhaus A dialogue with empty nesters, retirees or single occupants living in a small apartment or second home often begins with: “I have a small kitchen, and nothing can be done with it.” The goals are to ‘magically’ increase the perceived size of the space and improve the total ergonomics with an aesthetic…
Read More ›February 4, 2020 | KBB Collective
February’s webinars continue the exploration into technology and applications for the smart home. By Dianne M. Pogoda Among the buzziest terms circulating at KBIS last month were “connected homes,” “wellness” and “Living in Place.” This month’s webinars cover elements of these topics in the context of the smart home, and what takes a home from…
Read More ›February 3, 2020 | KBB Collective
Yep they did it again! Our esteemed EAB scoured the show floor and came up with their top picks. See what they chose in such categories as color, universal design, convenience and more!
Read More ›January 30, 2020 | KBB Collective
Going into the 2020 show, we knew color was going to be big. The cooler grays were replaced with warmer tones. Bold spots of color appeared in sinks, appliances, hardware and more. Classic Blue, Pantone’s Color of the Year, was everywhere. Here are some of the colorful trends and products we picked up on, which…
Read More ›January 27, 2020 | KBB Collective
Last week’s show revealed the industry’s best innovations, artistic products and creative additions to the kitchen and bath industry. There were popular products and styles that we expected, while some others were surprising but no less delightful. Here are just some of the top trends the KBB editors spotted at the show: COLOR. Pantone’s Classic…
Read More ›January 27, 2020 | KBB Collective
By Rebecca West of Seriously Happy Homes, Best of KBIS 2020 judge Whether you are a specialty exhibitor like the charming folks at Kalamazoo Grills or a mega-firm like GE, you have an equal opportunity to win Best of KBIS at NKBA’s annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). But if you want to win,…
Read More ›January 16, 2020 | KBB Collective
It’s that time of year again, when all our favorite manufacturers and industry professionals gather in one place for a week of learning, networking and inspiration. There is always so much to look forward to at KBIS, and we feel there is even more to get excited about this year. Here are some of the…
Read More ›January 13, 2020 | KBB Collective
Most dog and cat owners consider their animals part of the family, so it makes sense that they want to consider them during a renovation. Having a place for a pet to sleep, eat and play might make a design feel less cluttered and stressful and more customized and thoughtful overall. The first KBTribeChat of…
Read More ›January 3, 2020 | KBB Collective
According to Julia Steadman, head of operations at Seattle-based Brandt Design, the past decade has seen huge changes in homes, with kitchen design becoming a top priority for essential updates. “Striking the right balance among fashion, function, design and desirability is therefore the challenge for kitchen designers in 2020, with a few stand-out style…
Read More ›December 27, 2019 | KBB Collective
Pantone recently announced its 2020 Color of the Year, Classic Blue. This reassuring color is meant to highlight consumer desire for a dependable and stable foundation as they enter the new decade. Manufacturers agreed and released their own kitchen and bath products in the soon-to-be-trending color; these appliances, fixtures and other materials are sure to…
Read More ›December 19, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Lori Dolnick It’s almost a new year and time to consider how to adjust marketing strategies in 2020 to grow measurable sales and branding for future growth and success. Here are five key trends to watch and consider for 2020! 1. Real Marketing Just Got Even More BoringAnalyzing deep data is more important than…
Read More ›December 16, 2019 | KBB Collective
Last week, I attended our inaugural Design+Tech Connection in New York City. The event was hosted by the National Kitchen & Bath Association, KBB magazine and CEPro magazine and was organized to inspire collaboration among brands, design pros and tech integrators. The full-day program was packed with sessions that educated the audience on designing for light, smart…
Read More ›December 6, 2019 | KBB Collective
Google searches for “crystals” and “healing crystals” have slowly climbed over the past five years, hitting a peak in 2017 – around the time several news outlets, including the New York Times, dropped big stories digging into the trend. We are living through a period of almost unprecedented political, military, economic and environmental uncertainty at…
Read More ›December 6, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Maria Stapperfenne Designer Maria Stapperfenne attended the fall Maison & Objet and brought back five main trends from the international design show: 1. RETRO – Cookware is back to all metal; all the senses are engaged by bold colors for the eyes, and Bluetooth connectivity is all in but presents itself in an old-style…
Read More ›November 29, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Lauren Clement A typical day for a designer can feel like a lifetime in a day sometimes! A day in my life as a designer, mother and wife is like when the computer screen is filled with 20 different tabs – all opened at once. The first 90 minutes are all about getting myself…
Read More ›November 22, 2019 | KBB Collective
Last week I traveled to Louisville, Ky., for a sneak peek of two new design collections from Monogram. Amid a whirlwind of bourbon tastings and modern farmhouse tours, I got an in-depth look at how future appliances are catering to tech-savvy consumers who are looking for more out of their cooking experiences. The New Traditional…
Read More ›November 14, 2019 | KBB Collective
An outdoor space should be a backyard oasis, and one of the best parts of having an outdoor kitchen is being able to use it every day – even in the winter! Here are a few of our favorite outdoor kitchen ideas you can implement into your kitchen design for year-round use. Fire FeaturesWhen the…
Read More ›November 12, 2019 | KBB Collective
Having spent more than 30 years in this amazing industry, I believe it’s been my pleasure and chagrin to have worked through about every possible hurdle in getting a project to final deposit, all signed off and ready to roll. Naturally, tomorrow will bring a new adventure just to keep me on my toes, and…
Read More ›October 31, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Christina Xiong As a designer, marketing yourself or enlisting the help of a marketing company is essential for the growth of your business. Copy is a crucial component of your website, blog and social media platform. Well-wrought copywriting doesn’t just sell, it provides your client base with a value. Whether that value is information,…
Read More ›October 24, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Lori Dolnick Everyone has a camera. With a smart phone, you have the capability to capture images, live stream video and more! But having a powerful tool at your disposal and having the ability or the confidence to use it are two entirely different things. At the NKBA’s Voices from the Industry Conference…
Read More ›October 17, 2019 | KBB Collective
Baby boomers are retiring at an astonishing rate, creating issues not often addressed. Aside from them, many families have needs outside of age that could use features embedded in design. We are doing them a disservice if we don’t educate ourselves – and them – on how to contribute to their health and welfare. Here…
Read More ›October 10, 2019 | KBB Collective
This past week I attended my fourth Smart Kitchen Summit (SKS), which has grown from a small gathering in Seattle to a global event that now takes place in both Dublin and Japan as well. It was amazing to see all the innovation and excitement about how technology is improving our kitchens and the food…
Read More ›October 3, 2019 | KBB Collective
Lebanon, N.J.-based designer Joan Ravasy was recently presented with a common problem – an outdated kitchen – but a unique challenge: Create an open galley layout that would accommodate a wheelchair, as well as personal art. KBB spoke with her to find out more about this project and her creative solutions. A Challenging LayoutRavasy: The…
Read More ›September 30, 2019 | KBB Collective
The first few words spoken to the 475 design industry professionals at the opening of the Business of Home’s Future of Home conference was: “Home Is Hot!” The conference, which took place on Sept. 9 and 10 in New York City, covered wide-ranging topics such as home trends, the future of retail, the future of…
Read More ›September 26, 2019 | KBB Collective
Baby boomers today are looking to renovate their spaces to accommodate their growing needs – now and into the coming years. It is difficult to anticipate future issues, but challenges with sight and mobility are common problems that can be addressed through thoughtful design. KBB recently hosted a webinar – sponsored by Blum – on…
Read More ›September 19, 2019 | KBB Collective
Fall is right around the corner, and the annual fundraiser for DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS) was a great way to wrap up the summer season. Held at Midtown Loft & Terrace in New York City, the eighth-annual soirée recently invited 20 top-tier designers and brands to create global-themed baskets for auction. Every year,…
Read More ›September 16, 2019 | KBB Collective
At last week’s CEDIA Expo, one of the main topics was how to work together. Designers and smart home integrators alike had a lot of questions, and unfortunately there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. However, at a talk with designer Dawn Deluca of Dawn Deluca on Design and integrator Shalom Illouz of Powerfull Systems, we figured out…
Read More ›September 5, 2019 | KBB Collective
Inspired by KBTribeChat’s recent discussions, a few weeks ago we talked about mudrooms – one of the main “sister spaces” that often is tied into a larger renovation. The other add-on redesign we often see is the laundry room, a space that is definitely up-and-coming when it comes to the design industry. No longer is…
Read More ›August 29, 2019 | KBB Collective
Remember the classic CLUE murder mystery board game? In celebration of its 70th anniversary, Houzz is teaming up with Hasbro, the toy and board game company, to update the game with designs inspired by – and voted upon – by the Houzz community. CLUE is a board game in which players try to determine which…
Read More ›August 22, 2019 | KBB Collective
This week’s KBTribeChat talked about one of our favorite add-on spaces: the mudroom. We’ve been seeing this more often in kitchen renovations in particular, where it only makes logical sense to give a main entranceway its own facelift. Here’s what we picked up during the chat about the best ways to outfit this passthrough space:…
Read More ›August 16, 2019 | KBB Collective
Liebherr recently opened its first custom-designed showroom alongside its North American headquarters in Miami, Fla. Designed in collaboration with firm Birke, the 1,200-sq.-ft. venue creatively thought out to best represent the German brand. KBB talked with Jonathan Barfell, senior marketing manager, Refrigerator and Freezers Division for Liebherr, to find out more about this new showroom. …
Read More ›August 8, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Lauren Clement, Lauren Nicole Designs Being a small business owner certainly has its perks as well as its challenges. I was taught from the very beginning to be structured in knowing where your money is going. For example, a profit and loss statement per job was a requirement for me in the beginning, and…
Read More ›August 1, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Linda Holt, Linda Holt Creative This coming October, I will be leading a High Point Market Insiders Tour. This tour is specifically for new buyers or those that haven’t been to Market more than once within the past few years. I think it is one of the best new offerings at Market. Why? Because…
Read More ›July 24, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Millie Rosenbloom My feeling about Chicago summer is simple: It is short, so we need to make the most of every day! For me, enjoyment means creating a comfortable and beautiful outdoor space for a quiet dinner for two or to entertain large groups of friends. We remodeled our garage roof deck a few…
Read More ›July 19, 2019 | KBB Collective
New York City-based architect and designer Andreas Benzing made a spontaneous bid in an auction for a small property on the South Shore of Long Island. This home was auctioned off by New York state after it was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy, and it was in a flood zone. He decided not only to rebuild…
Read More ›July 15, 2019 | KBB Collective
When my husband and I decided that our kitchen could use an update, we took on a bigger challenge than I anticipated. Thankfully, I have plenty of daily inspiration from our readers and the design community to reference! I know I might be taking a risk for publishing my own remodel, but I have a…
Read More ›July 8, 2019 | KBB Collective
Popular styles, products and colors are constantly changing in the kitchen, and it can be hard to keep up with what’s new and in – and what to pay most attention to. Kay Green, president of Kay Green Design in Winter Park, Fla., recently shared her team’s favorite kitchen design trends for 2019 to help…
Read More ›July 4, 2019 | KBB Collective
Photographer: Gary Nolan It’s summer, and that means beach vacations for a lot of families. KBB recently spoke with Gary Ciuffo of Ciuffo Cabinetry in Deer Park, N.Y., to find out how he created a unique and tasteful look for his client’s beach project. GOALSCiuffo: Our first goal was to design a modern kitchen that…
Read More ›June 28, 2019 | KBB Collective
When you live in a big city like we do in New York, space is a luxury. But you don’t need floor-to-ceiling windows, Central Park views or 5,000 square feet for your home to feel generous and spacious. One of my favorite challenges with nearly all of my clients in New York City is working…
Read More ›June 24, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Rob Scott, CT Lab At CE Week 2019, homebuilding professionals had the opportunity to – for the first time ever at the show – see and experience how technology is impacting design in the kitchen and bath. At the Connected Design Home experience on the show floor, attendees were treated to a unique collection…
Read More ›June 20, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Doug Hanna, S+H Construction More and more, people of my generation and older hear the phrase “aging-in-place.” It could be taken to mean standing still until you shuffle off this mortal coil, and indeed, standing still would no doubt hasten the process. But aging in place is the current term used to describe methods…
Read More ›June 12, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Cheryl Kees Clendenon, In Detail Interiors The numbers are so important in a kitchen design. I get asked about the following information quite often, and I sometimes take it for granted because I deal with it every day. Here are some of my top tips for getting the measurements right in the kitchen: Tip…
Read More ›June 7, 2019 | KBB Collective
By J. Randall This is a question almost all of us have had to consider, and it turned out to be the ideal topic for an IFDA NY Chapter panel discussion held recently at the New York City’s Cosentino showroom. Four panelists offered their perspectives: attorney Alex K. Ross, Esq., of Ross & Katz; accountant…
Read More ›May 31, 2019 | KBB Collective
Today, the kitchen and master bath are not the only popular renovation requests. More clients are rethinking what we call “sister spaces,” like laundry rooms, mudrooms, closets, outdoor living spaces and more. These high-functioning rooms add value to a house and can dramatically improve a home’s appeal. As a continuation of our Better Business column…
Read More ›May 25, 2019 | KBB Collective
Interior designers have a responsibility to clients, the interior design community and the earth. At the Architectural Design Show 2019 in New York City, I had the honor of being featured as Responsible Renovator for Renovation Angel – an incredible group committed to reducing waste from kitchen renovations around the U.S. Renovation Angel’s mission is threefold: 1) Minimize Waste: Recycling…
Read More ›May 16, 2019 | KBB Collective
There are a lot of great reasons for homeowners to plan on aging in place. If your client is remodeling or building a new home, incorporating aging-friendly choices not only allows them to stay in the home they love but can save money in the long run. Assisted living is much more expensive than…
Read More ›May 16, 2019 | KBB Collective
Last week’s KBtribechat discussion was on contemporary kitchen trends. Visitors to the chat talked shared images of their favorite projects and shared their views on what defines a contemporary kitchen, what trends identify it and what role countertops, color and appliances have play in this style of design. In my opinion, some of the elements…
Read More ›May 10, 2019 | KBB Collective
One hundred years ago, architect Addison Mizner brought Spanish style to Florida. The tall, open arches, windows and loggias typical to this architecture invited sea breezes inside and were the perfect antidote to our hot, steamy summers prior to air conditioning. Although inspired by the art of Spain and Italy, his structures bear his own…
Read More ›May 6, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Beverly Bishop There are many small changes that make a big difference to the style and function of the bathroom. In fact, using many of these cost-effective changes together can make a giant impact in the space. You may not get that clawfoot tub, but I can guarantee your client will be booking time…
Read More ›April 26, 2019 | KBB Collective
Coverings recently announced the 10 projects that received the coveted Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards. The CID Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in the design and installation of tile and stone in both residential and commercial projects. KBB talked with Kadie Yale, judge and cooperative founder of Designology Co*Operative – a talent agency introducing makers…
Read More ›April 18, 2019 | KBB Collective
While in some areas of the country homeowners can enjoy their outdoor spaces all year round, the rest are just beginning to find their way outside again. That’s why this past week’s #KBTribeChat discussed outdoor living and particularly the outdoor kitchen. Here are some of the takeaways: Using Natural Stone Outside Stone flooring can create…
Read More ›April 18, 2019 | KBB Collective
Consumers in the baby boomer generation have a lot in common with the average home buyer, but they tend to have stronger opinions about what they do and do not want in their homes, as indicated in NAHB’s recent update on “What Home Buyers Really Want.” Most Important Home Features Number one is a laundry…
Read More ›April 12, 2019 | KBB Collective
Consumers want to know more about what is in their food, water and the air they breathe, so the materials they install also need to be up to par. Along with trends in colors, textures and patterns, this past week at Coverings I heard a lot about how many tile manufacturers are becoming more transparent…
Read More ›April 5, 2019 | KBB Collective
by Linda Holt The internal buzz these days among interior designers is that our livelihood is being seriously threatened. The fact is, the business of interior design is undergoing a seismic shift. Less than 20 years ago, interior design was primarily a service for the wealthy – not so today. Enter HGTV and a multitude…
Read More ›April 1, 2019 | KBB Collective
Photo courtesy of Hunter Douglas – Color Display Board By Barbara Schmidt, studiobstyle For the past several years, I’ve had the good fortune to be able to visit the Architectural Digest and Design Show (ADDS) held annually in March at Piers 92/94 in Manhattan. Every year the show surprises, and this…
Read More ›March 31, 2019 | KBB Collective
Chances are your smartphone is within arm’s reach right now, if you’re not already using it to read this. We’re spending more time than ever on our digital devices – did you know the average employee checks 40 websites a day, switching activities 37 times an hour, changing tasks every two minutes? With the flood…
Read More ›March 25, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Jason Knott A recent research study by Whirlpool Corp. paints a picture of what consumers desire in a smart appliance. The global survey of more than 2,000 homeowners and renters around the world reveals these six vital needs from a smart appliance: Improve Efficiency –A vast majority of consumers (72 percent) are looking for…
Read More ›March 15, 2019 | KBB Collective
As we begin gathering content for our next issue, I’m focusing on our next trends piece on enhancing the bathroom. Today’s bathrooms are meant to be lounged in and enjoyed. They are spa-like spaces that can rejuvenate and relax busy homeowners and often feature cover-worthy lighting and tubs. Designer Allison Jaffe of Dallas, Texas-based Allison…
Read More ›March 7, 2019 | KBB Collective
It’s becoming more common for people to work out of their own homes. One client of Izmir, Turkey-based Yerce Architecture decided to do just that and convert a standard flat into both their private home and a photography studio. While the ground floor would fulfill the needs of the studio and exhibition space, the upper…
Read More ›March 4, 2019 | KBB Collective
Hot off the heels of a fabulous KBIS in Vegas, some of KBB’s Editorial Advisory Board members shared their favorite finds at the show. Be sure to look out for our April post-KBIS issue to see more of their KBIS choices. Ebony Stephenson, CAPS Designs by Ebony, Newport News, Va. The creative use of color,…
Read More ›March 1, 2019 | KBB Collective
Just south of Miami, the Coral Gables, Fla., community is known for its beautiful architecture and seaside views. Now in its tenth year, the Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Tour of Kitchens recently inspired guests with the latest in kitchen and home design, while offering indulgences from local restaurants and vendors along the way. …
Read More ›February 26, 2019 | KBB Collective
Photography Credit: Jessie Preza Last week was a whirlwind of products, seminars, parties and networking for everyone who attended the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2019! The show definitely went beyond expectations with new innovations, design trends and an overwhelming amount of products and information. We will be covering the show extensively in our…
Read More ›February 15, 2019 | KBB Collective
Kitchens are the hub of the household, where people tend to gather to eat and socialize. Because of the cost and amount of work involved, remodeling isn’t an every-year project. It’s important to think hard about your client’s habits, needs and lifestyle, as well as how well the kitchen will look in the years ahead….
Read More ›February 8, 2019 | KBB Collective
As much of the country is bracing for more winter weather, we wanted a reminder that warmer days are coming soon with a look at an outdoor kitchen project. Designed by Larry Rych of Chicago-based Imperial Kitchens and Baths, this expansive outside space was built for modern entertaining off of a 100-year-old home. KBB spoke…
Read More ›February 4, 2019 | KBB Collective
After attending the Cevisama tile and surfacing show in Valencia, Spain, last week, I had the privilege to travel to Mallorca, an island off of the country’s southeastern coast. Along with being exceptionally beautiful – like Tuscany but with big mountains, palm trees and a shock of bright blue ocean – the island is also…
Read More ›January 28, 2019 | KBB Collective
I had the opportunity to attend a media event at LG Electronics USA’s Signature Kitchen Suite Experience & Design Center in Napa Valley a few weeks ago. More than 200 LG home appliances are on display at the new center, including its black stainless-steel collection, door-in-door refrigerators, a microwave oven combo with a convection feature, laundry systems…
Read More ›January 25, 2019 | KBB Collective
A big trend for 2019 is inclusive design, a philosophy that accommodates everyone from smallest to tallest and youngest to oldest. The beautiful thing about approaching interior design from an inclusive perspective is that it doesn’t just focus on aging or physical disabilities but rather on creating design that makes a space safe and accessible…
Read More ›January 21, 2019 | KBB Collective
By Doug Walter, AKBD, AIA, CAPS Stairs are a really big deal that get too little attention. We need them to get from floor to floor or down to the basement, but the industry for the most part tries to make them as compact as possible, so as not to “waste space.” Why not make…
Read More ›January 11, 2019 | KBB Collective
One client moving to Manhattan’s Upper East Side was prepared for the small size of her kitchen – only 80 square feet – but she was not satisfied with the dingy and depressed style of the space. New York City-based Anik Pearson of Anik Pearson Architect and interior designer Burt Wayne from Wayne & Doktor…
Read More ›January 4, 2019 | KBB Collective
Photography by Chris Veith Of the 17 million professional photos of home interiors and exteriors on Houzz, one kitchen – designed by Justin and Tyler Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs – stood out from the rest. As the most popular photo uploaded to Houzz in 2018, this image boasted more than 64,000 saves. KBB…
Read More ›December 27, 2018 | KBB Collective
For 20 years, Pantone’s Color of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions across many industries, including interior design. The color trend authority announced Living Coral, an animating coral hue with a golden undertone, as this year’s color. This tone represents consumers’ desire for more authentic and immersive experiences, as well as the…
Read More ›December 21, 2018 | KBB Collective
New Year’s is just around the corner, and everyone is already talking about the new trends that will come with it. From unique materials, exotic inspirations and darker finishes and colors, the professionals at Houzz explained what they anticipate seeing more of in the coming year. 1. Tile backsplash feature wall. Attention-grabbing backsplash tile is…
Read More ›December 16, 2018 | KBB Collective
With everything from voice activation, multi-tasking designs or remote-controlled features, new-to-market appliances are intuitive and showcase personal style. The experts at Ferguson Kitchen, Bath and Lighting Gallery (www.fergusonshowrooms.com) filled us on in some of their favorites. Talk-to-Me Tech Voice-activated appliances that easily integrate into the connected home are the newest advancement in terms of technology….
Read More ›December 7, 2018 | KBB Collective
During the initial meeting and throughout the sales process with the client, I explain how I work – I go over the process and deal with questions they don’t understand. Here are some of my tips for success in leading the project all the way through: Working with Internet-Influenced Clients. I embrace the Internet. I…
Read More ›December 3, 2018 | KBB Collective
From the residential to the commercial market, expect to see bold, refined designs that create a sense of drama as matte black moves in. Photo Credit: True Refrigeration Appliances: Manufacturers know darker kitchens with neutral oaks, charcoal and concrete…
Read More ›November 23, 2018 | KBB Collective
Each spring and fall, thousands of industry professionals from around the world descend upon the sleepy little town of High Point, N.C., for High Point Market. Attendees go to discover the latest interior design trends, see new product debuts and network with their colleagues and peers. It’s the KBIS of the home furnishings and decor…
Read More ›November 15, 2018 | KBB Collective
Photography by Heidi Geldhauser Nashville-based designer Chad James of Chad James Group recently had a unique challenge set before him: creating a bathroom that was indicative of the South. Tasked by the annual Southern Style Now Showhouse – part of the Southern Style Now Festival that takes place every November – James put together a space…
Read More ›November 7, 2018 | KBB Collective
It is one challenge to transform an outdated kitchen into a high-tech space, but it is entirely something else to create a smart and beautiful room out of a former storage area. Vernon Hills, Ill.-based designer Ned Schechter of Ned Schechter Interior Design was called on to do just that in an apartment building in…
Read More ›November 7, 2018 | KBB Collective
When industry experts and manufacturers work together, the result is a product that keeps the client in mind and addresses current trends and issues in the home. Jeanine Weinzierl, head of design for ACPI and a cabinetry product manager for a number of years, was recently brought on to lead the design of a new…
Read More ›November 2, 2018 | KBB Collective
There are many benefits to having more windows and natural lighting, but when it comes to the bathroom, a sense of seclusion is also essential. Stephen Conte of Brooklyn, N.Y.-based STUDIOSC faced this issue in a master bathroom redesign at the heart of the Williamsburg neighborhood. Since the bathroom is situated on a busy street…
Read More ›October 26, 2018 | KBB Collective
With Halloween quickly approaching, we’ve had ghosts and ghouls on our minds. Most of us don’t worry about anything haunting our homes anymore, but almost everyone can remember a time when they did – whether it was a monster under the bed or a phantom in the attic. Houzz recently did a poll to find…
Read More ›October 26, 2018 | KBB Collective
Buffalo, New York-based designer Jennifer Hutton of Artisan Kitchens and Baths knows the importance of community. When she was selected to complete the main kitchen in the annual Junior League Decorator’s Show House, she was excited to help contribute to the cause. Upon completion, the house became the newest component of the Kevin Guest House…
Read More ›October 22, 2018 | KBB Collective
Many of my projects are custom new home buildouts. I am typically brought in at the onset of a project to design the custom kitchens and bathrooms for clients. My team and I work closely with the project architects and builders to execute our designs and to ensure the client gets exactly what they need…
Read More ›October 15, 2018 | KBB Collective
This past week KBB attended the Smart Kitchen Summit, a conference on the future of cooking and food. Between seminars on the importance of meal deliveries and evolving appliance connectivity, we got to talk with several smart kitchen startup companies that are working to hit the market soon. The trends we heard about in the…
Read More ›September 28, 2018 | KBB Collective
The Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC) recently hosted one of its main annual events – DISCOVER ADAC – which was a three-day program that included product launches, educational and inspirational discussions and showroom openings for the design industry. KBB was there to tour the newest showrooms and check out some that had been updated. The…
Read More ›September 20, 2018 | KBB Collective
This past week I traveled to the small town of Hershey, Penn., which is not only the home of the great American chocolate company, but it also is the close neighbor of another American company’s factory and headquarters. Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry, based in nearby Kreamer, Penn., also started with humble beginnings: just four woodworkers…
Read More ›September 14, 2018 | KBB Collective
Chicago’s River North Design District is known as a local interior design community available to both designers and consumers. Each year, the district partners with the River North Arts District galleries to pair artists with designers in an annual gallery walk. Local designer Scott Dresner participated in this popular event last week by designing and…
Read More ›September 10, 2018 | KBB Collective
CEDIA Expo, the show all about the connected home experience, took place last week at the San Diego Convention Center. Between booth appointments and networking, KBB sat in on a seminar presented by Women in Consumer Technology that covered “The Impact of Technology on Lifestyle Design.” The panel discussion was hosted by Toni Sabatino, Manhattan’s…
Read More ›August 30, 2018 | KBB Collective
Last week marked a year since a Category 4 hurricane made landfall near Houston on the southeastern coast of Texas. Hurricane Harvey lingered for four days over the city, dumping more than 27 trillion gallons of water across the state and surrounding areas, causing more than $125 billion in damage and affecting more than 13…
Read More ›August 25, 2018 | KBB Collective
It’s the start of trade show season in many industries, and the number of North Americans traveling to international fairs and events has grown considerably. There are plenty of considerations when traveling to a foreign country, especially one where you don’t speak the language – and those elements are compounded when the travel is for…
Read More ›August 17, 2018 | KBB Collective
You don’t always have to shoot the budget to have a kitchen with a unique design statement. You might, however, have to forgo the temptation to emulate the trend of the moment in exchange for investing in a look that is authentically your client’s. Instead, inject their own personality, make it versatile to allow for…
Read More ›August 8, 2018 | KBB Collective
Sweeten, a service that matches renovators and the design trade with vetted general contractors, has recently launched a VIP program for designers. Sweeten is absolutely free to the renovator; its network of contractors pays a small fee when they are hired through Sweeten. The company has nearly $900 million in construction projects in the pipeline…
Read More ›August 3, 2018 | KBB Collective
As designers and architects, we have a responsibility to protect the health, safety and well-being of our clients and, by extension, the broader public. But can our designed environments go one step further and actually help us heal, too? Wherever one is in the course of sickness or healing, our physical surroundings can change the…
Read More ›July 27, 2018 | KBB Collective
By Linda Holt As a past professional photographer, I know that a big part of what makes a good image is what happens after the photo is taken. No matter how well exposed or composed the original is, I have rarely seen a photo that can’t be improved in some way with editing. Sometimes, it’s…
Read More ›July 22, 2018 | KBB Collective
Often the best redesigns start with the worst original spaces. For one master bath in Ramsey, N.J., the existing space had a large and unused tub under the window, a small lower vanity and shower and an exposed toilet with no privacy. Designer Julia Kleyman of Ridgewood, N.J.-based Ulrich, Inc. stepped in to transform this…
Read More ›July 22, 2018 | KBB Collective
Televisions with 3D capabilities and phones with professional-grade, built-in cameras are old news. What’s hot now is Augmented Reality (AR) – a type of technology that overlays the natural world with computer-generated images. This might seem like stuff of the future or for video gamers alone, but it’s actually proving to be a useful tool…
Read More ›July 17, 2018 | KBB Collective
A bad hire is more than just frustrating, it’s costly. Bringing in an employee who turns out to be a poor fit will cost your company in unnecessary payroll, wasted time and possibly even unhappy customers. Success in hiring starts long before you interview a candidate, with a process that I call “Getting Clear.” Clarity…
Read More ›July 12, 2018 | KBB Collective
By Loren Kessell, NKBA Sometimes the need for a career change and passion for the kitchen and bath industry meld together to ignite someone’s spark. Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, and a member of KBB’s Editorial Advisory Board, is one of those people. She is celebrating her 20th year in the kitchen and bath industry and as…
Read More ›July 9, 2018 | KBB Collective
The 2018 Metro Designer Showhouse, which recently took place in Edgewater, N.J., tasked a team of designers to redesign six residences within a newly built condominium, the Glass House. With 12,000 square feet of waterfront space, the Glass House showcases skyline views of Manhattan and the Hudson River in each residence. The showhouse aims to…
Read More ›July 9, 2018 | KBB Collective
Whether or not you favor cannabis legalization, medicinal and recreational marijuana for the masses is gaining momentum. Cannabis researchers report North American legal pot sales jumped 34 percent in 2016 to $6.9 billion, and spending on legal cannabis worldwide is expected to hit $57 billion by 2027. Several companies are racing to serve the cannabis markets, and a new…
Read More ›June 26, 2018 | KBB Collective
We have clients who are preparing their homes for every stage of life. From aging parents moving back in, to families with young children, today’s homes are being designed to serve multiple generations, personal lifestyles and physical abilities. So how do we design bathrooms to meet the needs of all people? The answer is inclusive…
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