Attending KBIS / NKBA 2026 in Orlando

Attending KBIS / NKBA 2026 in Orlando for the first time was more than a trade show — it was a reminder of why I love being part of the design industry. Having a veteran attendee to guide me not only focused our visit but made it more fun to have an expert to share observations and thoughts. Thank you @debbie Schaeffer for letting me tag along.

Two full days. 10,000+ steps each day. Endless conversations. And I left feeling inspired by the innovation, resilience, and vision shaping the future of kitchen and bath.

Hearing football legend @Emmitt Smith share his origin story was a powerful way to frame the experience. His words felt especially relevant to our industry:

A dream is only a dream until you write it down. Then it becomes a goal.
Never be satisfied — because that is when the growing stops.
No success is achieved alone.
Inspire others and share your successes with others.

Those lessons apply just as much to business and design as they do to sports. We build, create, and innovate as teams. We push for better solutions. And we grow by challenging ourselves — and each other — to elevate what’s possible.
Growth requires intention. Success requires collaboration. And meaningful impact comes from lifting others along the way.

Walking the show floor, I was struck by how seamlessly technology, craftsmanship, and beauty are converging. The level of innovation on display was extraordinary. Favorite manufacturers included:

#Kohler
#LGStudio & #SKSAppliances
#BlueStar
#TOTO
#SharpHomeElectronics
#TrueResidential
#VentAHood
#Bocchi
#Monogram
#VillageCabinetry
#Cosentino
#simplehuman
#TopKnobs

Each booth reflected where our industry is headed — smarter kitchens, performance-driven appliances, sustainable materials, thoughtful details, colorful fun and design that enhances how people actually live.

We started the 2^nd day with an insightful NKBA State of the Union from @Bill Darcy Jr. Despite a challenging 2025, the outlook is encouraging:

• The luxury market continues to outperform
• The new alliance with High Point Market strengthens industry collaboration
• Leveling interest rates are stabilizing the new homeowner forecast
• Recovery anticipated in the second half of 2026
• With fewer people moving, remodeling shows 4.4% growth potential
• AI and sustainable design are accelerating
• A skilled labor shortage remains one of our greatest challenges

Through all the shifts, one message stood out:
Our mission remains the same — to create beautiful spaces that make people’s lives better.

I also loved the deep-dive trend presentation by Jaye Anna Mize of @Future Snoops. Her research highlighted a cultural shift in luxury homeownership — clients are seeking expertise, data-backed guidance, high-tech integration, and wellness-driven design. The kitchen is not just the heart of the home — it’s where life happens.

Visiting the New Build House was also incredibly inspirational in showing new building products in practice. A beautiful home with all the amenities one can imagine!

KBIS 2026 wasn’t just about products. It was about purpose, partnership, and the evolution of how we design for the way people live today.

Grateful for the conversations, connections, and inspiration. The future of our industry is evolving — and it’s exciting to be part of it.