KBB

KBB

NewsKBB Collective

March 18, 2024 |

The Importance of Specifications

Say you’re in the kitchen, it’s a beautiful morning and you’re going to whip together your favorite family French toast recipe. That recipe is your blueprint for success. The ingredients are the heart of a successful recipe. In the building…

Read More

March 11, 2024 |

Thriving Through and Beyond KBIS 2024

After two and a half decades of attending industry trade shows, I’ve become somewhat of a connoisseur of the highs and lows these events bring. As someone who identifies strongly as an introvert – albeit a social and confident one…

Read More

March 4, 2024 |

Mastering Marketing Metrics

An entire generation of marketers have grown up learning the features of various technologies without ever taking marketing classes. Unfortunately, this creates a scenario where the younger generation celebrate marketing victories based on metrics that do not always benefit a…

Read More

February 26, 2024 |

Designing Healthy Interiors

In an era where well-being takes center stage, the demand for designing healthy interiors has become more than just a passing trend – it has evolved into a fundamental criterion for modern living. Homeowners, increasingly conscious of the profound impact…

Read More

February 19, 2024 | ,

BiKBBI 2024 Conference Report

February 6th 2024, saw the Annual Conference for the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) held at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Centre in London’s Westminster. This conference is an important assembly of key institute stakeholders and…

Read More

February 12, 2024 |

Valentine’s Day Kitchen & Bath Products

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re embracing the amorous vibes and focusing on a committed relationship with some sizzlingly hot kitchen & bath products. John Derian   Photo credit: John Derian This floral-themed decoupage platter by John Derian could…

Read More

January 22, 2024 |

German Haus Fair Report

Foreign travel is great for sparking a designer’s creative juices; however, mixing business with pleasure can be the ultimate reward. In that vein, I have made a point of attending kitchen and bath industry trade shows on a regular basis…

Read More

January 15, 2024 |

Connectivity in Kitchen Appliances

Even the most seasoned cooks face challenges in the kitchen – from lacking the time and energy to prepare a meal, to not knowing what to cook, and feeling apprehensive about cooking a new dish. At every skill level, questions…

Read More

December 25, 2023 |

Hygge for the Holidays

Winter often means family gatherings, big meals, and fiercely competitive board games. If your family is like mine, Scrabble is on the list. Let me help you impress your family, legitimize your cozy comfort wear, and earn double-digit points with…

Read More

November 27, 2023 |

Wet Room Design & Installation Tips

Constructed Matter, Inc. is an Arizona-based design and build firm that delivers design-centric residential and commercial projects. Their services encompass the entire spectrum of a project, including pre-construction consultation, residential renovations and remodels, tenant improvements, additions and ground-up construction. A recent…

Read More

November 6, 2023 |

Blues You Can Use

Benjamin Moore has officially announced its 2024 Color of the Year as Blue Nova 825 — an elevated, sumptuous blue-violet hue. As we look ahead to how this color will shape the fashion, interior design and arts industries, we’ve rounded…

Read More

October 30, 2023 |

Contract Tips From an Authentic Lawyer

At the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center’s Get Down to Business event last week, Wendy Estela, Esq., shared her tips for creating infallible design contracts. Estela, who is the owner of Estela Law in Hartford, Conn., gave a compelling and informative…

Read More

October 23, 2023 |

Harnessing the Power of Online Reviews

This article was originally published on October 23, 2023; it was updated on November 3, 2023. Harnessing the Power of Online Reviews Since the beginning of the internet era, the significance of online customer reviews, specifically Google, cannot be overstated….

Read More

October 16, 2023 |

Six Things to Know About Slabs

Two slab experts – Dallas Area Manager Matthew Collins and Dallas Assistant Manager Sarah Marek, who recently opened the first Ann Sacks Slab Gallery, in Dallas – share some surprising info that can help you decide which slabs to put…

Read More

October 9, 2023 |

Finding Your Superpowers

Effectively showcasing your unique strengths – your superpowers – in your branding, messaging and marketing is crucial to build trust and attract your ideal clients. As a designer, your ability to connect with clients on a personal level is invaluable….

Read More

October 2, 2023 |

The Designer’s 10 Commandments

As a designer, you know that providing your clients with quality options and services that meet their specific needs is the most important part of your job. That being said, it is not easy to provide those quality solutions without…

Read More

September 11, 2023 |

Designer Liz Curry Gets the Last Word

Creative director and founder of New York City-based Liz Curry Studio, designer Liz Curry started her own firm in 2019, after working for many years at Meyer-Davis Studio. She specializes in large-scale renovations and new home interior architecture. How does…

Read More

September 4, 2023 |

Q&A: How to Win Design Competitions

This article was originally published on September4, 2023; it was updated on September 11, 2023. Wendy Glaister, owner and principal of Wendy Glaister Interiors, shares insights and secrets to successfully winning six prestigious design competitions this summer. Here she details…

Read More

August 14, 2023 |

Low-Flow Toilets: What You Need to Know

Whether you are a contractor, service plumber or supply house, rising water costs are affecting everyone. According to the EPA, over 25% of household water use comes from bathroom fixtures and leaks, and many older properties and single-family homes are…

Read More

August 7, 2023 |

Working with an Interiors Photographer

Collaborating with other creatives is one of the most rewarding aspects of being an interior design & architecture photographer. Projects are months and years in the making, so when a client places that trust in me to capture their work,…

Read More

July 31, 2023 |

How to Set Clear Client Expectations

This article was originally published on July 31, 2023; it was updated on August 7, 2023 and August 16, 2023. As an interior designer, it’s crucial to set clear and realistic client expectations. This is key to ensuring a successful…

Read More

July 21, 2023 |

Barbiecore: A Pink Product Portfolio

This article was originally published on July 21,2023; it was updated on August 8, 2023. Barbiecore mania has arrived in the kitchen and bath sector, with brands hopping on the pink bandwagon to celebrate the sassy signature hue and rosy…

Read More

July 17, 2023 |

Barndominiums – What Are They?

Barndominiums – What Are They? This article was originally published on July 17, 2023; it was updated on July 25, 2023 and September 11, 2023. If you have been out of the loop about recent developments in alternative housing solutions,…

Read More

July 3, 2023 |

Six Creative Client Experiences

Six Creative Client Experiences This article was originally published on July 3, 2023; it was updated on July 10 and July 17, 2023. One quick note on the WHY of creating memorable client experiences: The point here is to make…

Read More

June 12, 2023 |

Navigating the Design Job Market

While the current design job market is still considered a “candidates’ market,” employers are starting to show fatigue from the overall lack of professionalism in the marketplace. Although it depends on who you speak to, many job-seekers are likely to…

Read More

June 5, 2023 |

Mirrors: Bigger is Better

This article was originally published on June 5, 2023; it was updated on June 12, 2023. We love a little drama here at Interiors by Popov, and we also love to bring a classic twist to our modern design style…

Read More

May 15, 2023 |

Boosting Profits for Interior Designers

This article was originally published on May 15, 2023; it was updated on June 6, 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 1, 2023 |

Bathroom Audio Systems: All You Need to Know

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 |

Finding Your Target Audience

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 |

The White Kitchen Debate

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 5, 2023 |

How to Make the Sale with Clients

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 |

A Midjourney AI Tutorial for Designers

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 |

Retro Appliances in Today’s Kitchens

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 |

Design Tips for Pet-Friendly Homes

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 |

Bathroom Trends for the Spa Lover

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 |

The Paint Doesn’t Match

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 |

KBIS 2023 Product Picks from a Design Pro

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 20, 2023 |

Emotional Escape Rooms Explained

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

January 23, 2023 |

Instagram Intelligence for Designers

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 9, 2023 |

Future-Proofing Renovation Projects

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 |

Tile is Trending for 2023

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 |

What is Circular Design?

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 |

Viva Magenta: Variations on a Theme

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 |

How Daylighting Can Increase Showroom Sales

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

November 28, 2022 |

Slow Spaces and Holistic Design

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 |

Lighting Trends for 2023

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 |

Laundry Rooms Designed for Today

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

October 31, 2022 |

How Hosted Payment Pages Save Designers Time

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 |

Color Trends and Cabinetry

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

September 26, 2022 |

Kitchen Planning and Ergonomics

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 5, 2022 |

BARKitecture: A Design Trend Goes to the Dogs

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 22, 2022 |

Eco-Friendly Kitchen Remodeling Tips

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 |

Steam Ovens: A Healthy Way of Cooking

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

July 25, 2022 |

Wood Hoods are a Hot Kitchen Trend

This article was originally published on July 25, 2022; it was most recently updated on January 30, 2024. Wood Range Hoods are a Hot Kitchen Trend One of the first questions clients ask when we discuss their kitchen is “What’s…

Read More

July 11, 2022 |

Anatomy of an Accent Wall

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 |

Design Tricks for Reducing Anxiety

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 |

Lighting as a Design Tool

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 13, 2022 |

Five Ideas for Open Floor Plans

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

May 23, 2022 |

Refrigerators, 2.0

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 9, 2022 |

Lighting Tips for Ultimate Wellness

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 |

Outdoor Kitchen Essentials Checklist

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 |

Earth Day Top 10 Design Ideas

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

March 21, 2022 |

Color Convo with Breegan Jane

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 7, 2022 |

Bar Hopping

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 14, 2022 |

Genius Hacks to Make a Small Kitchen Thrive

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

January 31, 2022 |

Coping Strategies for the Trades Shortage

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 |

Revealing Visual Priorities in Bathroom Design

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 10, 2022 |

Top Takeaways from CES 2022

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 20, 2021 |

A Very Peri New Year

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 |

Kitchen Design Predictions

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

November 29, 2021 |

Influencer Marketing: The Ins and Outs

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 8, 2021 |

Top 10 Feng Shui Design Trends

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 |

Four Fall Interior Design Tips

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 |

How to Start the Design Process

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 |

Introducing the Mobile Showroom

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 |

A Breakdown of Various Kitchen Styles

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

September 27, 2021 |

Appliances Picks for a Kosher Kitchen

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

August 23, 2021 |

Top Five Ways to Use Italian Tile

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

July 8, 2021 |

An Aspiring Young Designer at Work

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 |

Getting that Luxe Look

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 11, 2021 |

Is Pinterest Changing Home Design?

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 |

Five Tips to Make Homes More Eco-Friendly

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 13, 2021 |

How to Select the Right Light Fixture

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 |

Cooking at Home with Children

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

April 22, 2021 |

10 Design and Decor Pet Peeves

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 14, 2021 |

How to Design a Pet-Friendly Kitchen

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 |

Designing an Authentic Italian-Style Kitchen

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

March 22, 2021 |

7 Outdated Decorating Trends

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 |

What Do You Mean “Custom?”

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 |

2021 Distinctive Kitchen Design Trends

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 |

A World of Wellness

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 |

Powder Room Pizzaz

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 22, 2021 |

A Deep Dive into a Way of Design

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 |

One Designer’s 2021 Predictions

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

December 23, 2020 |

A Work of Art

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 |

Lessons Learned from 2020

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 |

A Sustainable Season

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 3, 2020 |

Designing Kitchen Projects Online

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 |

Bathroom Tile Design in 2020

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 |

Four Reasons to Use Sustainable Plywood

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 13, 2020 |

Tile of Spain’s Top Tile Trends of Fall 2020

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 |

Preparing for the Cold Season

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 |

Cooking Together with Ease

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 |

How to Land the Ideal Client

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

October 23, 2020 |

Talking Bathroom Privacy with Clients

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 |

Lighting Trends Today

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 |

Kitchen Trends for Fall 2020

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 |

Timeless Kitchen Tips

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 |

Consumer Views on Home Remodeling

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 |

Let Us Entertain You

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 |

Five Interior Design Trends for 2020

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 |

Getting Smart About Social Media

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 |

Getting Ready for KBIS 2021

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 |

Designing the Ideal Laundry Space Today

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 |

It’s Cool To Be Kind

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 |

Bold Leadership Matters

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 |

The Value of “Hello, How Are You?”

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 |

Designing a Dramatic and Functional Bar

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 |

Preparing for the Unexpected

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 6, 2020 |

Top U.S. Kitchen Design Trends

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 20, 2020 |

2020 Summer Kitchen Trends

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 |

A Look at the 2020 K&B Showroom

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 |

Good Spaces Come in Small Packages

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 12, 2020 |

How Home Décor Can Heal Us

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 |

How to Design a Balanced Outdoor Space

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 |

Getting Ready for Gen Z

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 11, 2020 |

A Winning Project with a View

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 20, 2020 |

Breaking Down Clients’ Decisions

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 |

The View from Manufacturers in China

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 |

2020 Spring Kitchen Trends

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

March 26, 2020 |

Coronavirus: Thriving While on Lockdown

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 23, 2020 |

How to Design Remotely

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 |

The Four Agreements (of Interior Design)

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 |

Trends Spotted at KBIS

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 |

Social Distancing & an NKBA Update

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 |

Smart Tech for Contractors

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 |

Trends in Luxury Fixtures

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 |

You Can Handle It

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 |

The 4 Most Common Catalog Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make

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 |

Gearing Up for Salone

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 |

Designing for a Small Kitchen

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 |

We’re All Connected

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

January 30, 2020 |

Color at KBIS

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 |

Trends Spotted at KBIS

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 16, 2020 |

It’s Showtime!

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 |

Including Pets in Design

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 |

2020 Kitchen Design Trends

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 |

Going Classic Blue

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 16, 2019 |

Tech Talk in the Connected Home

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 |

Decorating with Crystals

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 |

Five European Trends

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 |

A Day in the Life

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 |

All In the Little Things

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 |

6 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas You Can Use Year-Round

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 |

A Lesson in Client Communication

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 24, 2019 |

Three Tips for Better Online Photography

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 |

Designing Safer Homes for Everyone

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 |

Catering to Millennials – and Outliers Like Me

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 |

Personalizing a Galley Kitchen

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 |

Business of Home’s Future of Home Conference

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 |

Kitchen Design for Aging in Place

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 |

End of Summer Creativity

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 |

Building Business Together: Designers + Integrators

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 |

Talking Laundry

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 |

Houzz Partners with CLUE Board Game for New Design

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 |

Beautiful Dirty Spaces

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 |

Opening a Flagship Showroom

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 |

Balancing Business, Creative Pursuits and Life

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

July 24, 2019 |

Three Ingredients for the Perfect Outdoor Space

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 |

Preparing for Another Sandy

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 |

Inspired By You

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 |

Seven Sensational Kitchen Design Trends

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 |

Rethinking the Beach House

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 |

Quick Tricks to Make a Small Home Feel Bigger

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 |

Recap of CE Week

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 |

Aging-in-Place Tips

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 |

Five Essential Kitchen Design Tips

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 |

How to Get Clients to Pay

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 |

The Advantage of Add-Ons

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 |

Responsible Renovation

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 |

Aging Gracefully at Home

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 |

Contempo Casual

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 |

Kitchen Case Study: Old Florida, New Vision

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 |

How To Revamp the Bathroom Without Breaking the Budget

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 |

Coverings Installation & Design Award Winners Announced

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 |

Enjoying Nature at Home

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 12, 2019 |

Healthier Surfaces

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 1, 2019 |

Favorites from the Architectural Digest Show

         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 |

It’s Time to Disconnect

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 |

Six Features Consumers Want in Smart Appliances

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 |

Speaking of Bathroom Design

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 |

Live and Work Space

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 |

Pros Share Top KBIS Picks

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