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Last month, the NKBA Manhattan Chapter hosted its annual board dinner courtesy of Lutron. Committee members and chapter sponsors alike gathered at the Lutron Global Experience Center for a delightful evening of fine food, wine, connection, conversation, and live music.
The event marked several important announcements, including the naming of Jeannine Price as incoming President of the NKBA Manhattan Chapter, as well as Rex Aguirre as incoming Communications Chair, and Ellen Lopez as Programs Chair. The three incoming officers will be officially inducted at the first Chapter event in 2026. Big cheers and congratulations to all!!
Between the exciting announcements and live instrumentals from talented violinist Paxin Tenebris, the evening was electric and the perfect way to wind down from summer and gear up for the busy fall season.
Designer Joan Ravasy welcoming guests to the evening
L to R: Janice Brown, Vice President, Modern Luxury; Pam McNally, Houzz Pro; and Donna Herman, Modern Luxury
John Risch, Hafele America; Bianca Olsson, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove; Jennifer Voll, Clerestory; Chris Voll
Wes Lind, True Residential; Erika Saucedo, Dacor; Joan Ravasy, Programs Chair; and Bridgitte Fouche, Dacor
Tom Price, Custom Wood Products; John Risch, Hafele; and Greg Stebbins, Fabuwood
Sandra Singh, Miele; Rose Ott, Designer; Felicitas Oefelein, Fodesigns; Toni Sabatino, Toni Sabatino Style; and Jeannine Price, NKBA Manhattan President-elect
Jennifer Mirsky, Premiere Systems Design; Joan Ravasy, Ravasy Design LLC; Isabel Byrnes, Byrnes Design Studio; and Barbara Haberman, Bloomingdale's
Shaping the Future of Design
From EduDay’s “Design for Healthy Living” to AI insights, CEUs, and celebrations—our chapter is in full swing.
September always brings a sense of renewal—back-to-school energy, the shift toward fall, and yes, those early glimpses of holiday décor already creeping into stores. For our NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter, it’s also when our programming hits full stride, with EduDay taking center stage.
This year’s theme—Design for Healthy Living—explores how design elevates wellness, sustainability, and smarter living, spanning everything from AI and smart homes to nutrition and even the science of beauty. It’s a theme that feels especially timely, because “healthy living” isn’t only about the spaces we design, but also about how we, as professionals, adapt to the world around us.
And that brings me to our luncheon keynote. Here’s where my “conceptual” side kicks in: back in 1980, futurist Alvin Toffler in the Third Wave called our era the Information Age—a time when the big breakthrough was how knowledge could be stored, shared, and distributed. Fast-forward to today, and we’ve entered a whole new stage. With AI and automation, knowledge doesn’t just sit in books or databases anymore—it’s being generated, interpreted, and acted on in real time–intelligence itself has become the means of production
What does that mean for us as designers, builders, and industry professionals? It means our value shifts toward the things only people can do: being creative, making ethical decisions, guiding intelligent systems, with good judgment and ethics.
That’s why we’ve made AI the focus of this year’s EduDay keynote. We’ll explore how it’s already been reshaping our industry since 2020, and—most importantly—how to embrace it as a partner in design and innovation, not a replacement. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective and some practical takeaways you can use immediately in your work. We’re excited and hope to see you on October 16th.
Circle These Dates – You Won’t Want to Miss Them
October 16, Thursday – Education & Membership Day
A full day of learning, networking, and celebration with four CEUs, including a keynote luncheon, an evening cocktail reception, and raffle prizes from our sponsors. First-time members are also eligible to win an exclusive luxury faucet from the Franz Viegener collection—and you don’t even need to be present to win!
November 13, Thursday – Success by Design, hosted by Kohler and Cambria
10 CEO Habits that Drive Profit—a can’t-miss program for anyone committed to growth, leadership, and long-term success.
December – Holiday Party (Date TBD)
Chairperson Joan Ravasy is already planning a year-end celebration to cap off an eventful year. It promises to be festive, memorable, and a fantastic way to close 2025 together.
We also gathered in August for our annual Board Dinner, generously hosted at the state-of-the-art 28th Lutron NYC Global Experience Center. It was a night to thank our incomparable volunteers and sponsors, introduce our incoming 2026 Board Members, and celebrate our community. Please join me in welcoming:
Rex Aguirre, Communications Chair-Elect (represented at the dinner byJennifer Mirsky)
As always, thank you for being part of our remarkable community. I look forward to seeing you on October 16th at EduDay and bring an industry friend to this or any of our other events.
Warmly,
Charlé-John
President, NKBA-NYC Chapter
charle@cjcstrategists.com
Spotlight On: Ellen Lopez, Programs, Chair-Elect
Elle’s Creative Process – Figure it Out!
Elle takes a break in one of her lovely kitchen installations. She has won design awards from NKBA NY Metro, NARI, and PRO NYand has recently moved up to round 2 in the 2026 NKBA Design Competition.
By Maureen Klein
Was it her Dad’s inventive genius rubbing off on her?
On the forefront of developing a solar energy system and then cogeneration energy systems, Ellen said, even experts from NASA and MIT were contacting him. “People drove by and thought our roof looked like a movie theater. Come inside and they’d find 8 tons of rocks in our basement.” A lot of “energy” going on in that house! Or, perhaps, it was her Aunt, a self-described "housewife decorator" who took her to the D&D building for her 12th birthday. Was that it? Read on, and follow her journey.
Sounds like your childhood was truly a fun time.
As one of five children, it was indeed, a lively and creative environment. I grew up in Hicksville, Long Island, NY, not far from where I live and have my business now,EL Design Studio. In high school I joined the Thespian society where I felt most at home-bringing my dance experience to the stage in variety shows and musicals. But it was when I prepared the visuals (displays, programs and more) for each production that I realized that I felt most creative, figuring out all the design elements and bringing them together in the finished products.
So what was your first job like?
At 16, I worked at the local mall for Chandler Shoes-at the same time Eddie Murphy was working for them at the Roosevelt Field branch. He had a reputation of being a funny guy back then too, and would always have an amusing answer when one of us called there for “shoe checks.”
How about after High School?
After my first two years at FIT, studying Buying and Merchandising, I went back to get a second degree in Textile Design. I also studied one year at the University of Georgia where textile design was taught more as a craft. We would shear the sheep, card the wool, spin the yarn, and weave it into a swatch of fabric. The creative emphasis of the program provided a different conceptual angle than I had been used to.
It seems you are a strong advocate of continuous learning, what else did you study?
When I was ready to return to work after my 3 children were a little older, I opted for certification rather than a third degree. Home Depot offered a six-week training program that provided the necessary points for the certification exam for my journey to becoming a CMKBD (Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer). I also needed an apprenticeship or a combination of experiences totaling at least five years.
By combining my experience as a textile designer with my work as a kitchen and bath designer, I qualified to sit for the certification examination. The first leg of the process was the AKBD exam (Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer). A bonus-I met a great study partner through the NKBA Manhattan Chapter study group. We met in Starbucks regularly for 2–3-hour study sessions with our NKBA Flash cards. Once I passed that I moved on to sit for the CKD (Certified Kitchen Designer).
What else might have led you to settle comfortably into kitchen and bath design?
I always had a passion for construction-having lived through it a few times. And as time went on, I became more passionate about making sure it was done right. Early on, I had some construction work done on my home, but the architect and contractor we hired never laid out a kitchen floor plan. The result was five years of opening the refrigerator in order to open the dishwasher! Who would have thought that 3" could make such a difference? I learned that figuring it out, was my creative expertise, and I have loved doing it ever since.
After completing renovations on their new vacation apartment, Ellen looks forward to spending more time in Medellin, Colombia, SA, where Jorge was born, and visiting his brother’s finca (farmhouse), shown here in nearby Sopetran.
Elle knows her way around the kitchen, too. A passionate family chef, she loves cooking traditional meals and hosting holiday feasts for 30 plus. Here, a small Sunday dinner with husband Jorge, son Jeremy and his boyfriend Noah, son-in-law Alex, and daughters Bianca and Selena.
If you are not a member already, this is the time to become one!
See below for details on an exciting opportunity to win a Franz Viegener fixture for those who join by October 16th.
Email our Membership Chair, Diana Mosher, with questions or to get an application.
Help Wanted!
In this new section of the monthly newsletter, we’ll share and promote open job opportunities from the industry. If you’re looking for a new position, stay tuned for more listings. If you’re seeking talent, send an email to Maureen Klein and Michelle Shen for inclusion in the next newsletter. Contact info is listed below in the masthead!
The Galley is hiring! A&D Manager – Northeast (Remote)
The Galley is seeking a dynamic A&D Manager – Northeast to build brand presence and drive product specification through strong relationships with architects, interior designers, and key influencers. This remote role focuses on high-end residential projects in NYC and surrounding areas, with occasional travel (30–35%) along the East Coast. Contact Samantha Jaramillo, Director of A&D, for additional information and to apply: samantha.jaramillo@thegalley.com
Hastings Bath is hiring! Northeast Territory Account Executive
Location: Hybrid – Based in New York, NY
Hastings Bath Collection, a leader in luxury bathroom design and the exclusive U.S./Canada importer of VOLA, is seeking a dynamic Northeast Territory Account Executive. This role focuses on growing Hastings and VOLA brands across the A&D community and dealer networks, driving specifications, cultivating relationships, and expanding market presence. Candidates should have 5–7 years of B2B sales experience, strong presentation and networking skills, and a passion for the luxury design sector. Competitive salary ($100K–$120K+), commission, benefits, PTO, and growth opportunities offered. Contact Bob Gifford: Bob@hastingsbath.com
September 17, 2025
aspire design and home Announces The Art Of The Home Designer Showhouse
aspire design and home proudly presents The Art of the Home, a transformational designer showhouse set within a breathtaking 13,000-square-foot estate in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. This curated exhibition of world-class design, architecture and fine art will run from September 19 through October 19, to benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
The festivities begin with an Opening Night Gala on September 17, hosted on the showhouse grounds. The evening will feature Tony Yazbeck, Tony-nominated Broadway star (On the Town, Flying Over Sunset), performing live on a Steinway grand piano crafted exclusively for the showhouse. Yazbeck will be accompanied by his longtime musical director for an unforgettable performance under the stars. Guests will enjoy private home tours, signature cocktails, elevated cuisine, and a first look at the complete transformation of the home — all in support of Tunnel to Towers.
Designing Greenwich 2025 is a multi day event that C&G Media, cottagesgardens.com, will be presenting on Wednesday September 24 and Thursday, September 25 with proceeds to benefit the Greenwich Historical Society. The program starts at the Greenwich Country Club, in nearby CT. From the 10AM Kick-Off Panel– Celebrating the Country House: Connecticut and Beyond with DJ Carey, Bunny Williams, and Elizabeth Lawrence, to the Thursday shopping, pop-ups and artisan studio visits along with garden and home tours, there is a lot to immerse yourself in. Several ticketing options are available. Look here to find out more. Car pool anyone?
√ THESE OUT!
√ TAKE FIVE NKBA Design + Business Online Webinars
1. Outdoor Technology: Extending the Living Space, .1CEU
3. Kitchen Trends Summit: Discover the Future of Kitchen Design, .2 CEU’s
Thursday, September 18, 2025, 12:00 - 2:00 PM ET
Register here for this special webinar, generously Sponsored by SKS.
4. Elevating Outdoor Kitchen Design, .1CEU
Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
5. The Modern Outdoor Kitchen: A New Standard for Outdoor Living and Entertaining, .1CEU
Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET
NOTE: Each seminar provides .1CEU unless otherwise stated and they are free for NKBA members.
You’ll be glad you did.
Mid-Century Design from Hastings Bath Collection
Hastings Bath Collection introduces the Fifties Collection—handcrafted glass washbasins inspired by mid-century design. Featuring vivid colors and minimalist forms, each basin pairs a colored glass exterior with a matte white, stain- and scratch-resistant solid surface interior for a fresh yet nostalgic modern bath statement.
Native Trails Adds Anacapa to the NativeStone® Collection
Native Trails welcomes Anacapa, the latest addition to its award-winning NativeStone® collection. Anacapa embodies quiet sophistication, transforming the rectangular bathroom sink into a study of balance, proportion, and craft. Generous in scale yet unexpectedly lightweight, Anacapa installs with ease. Its broad, smooth basin enhances daily usability while serving as a minimalist canvas that elevates the bath. Each sink is individually hand formed by skilled artisans, making every piece a singular expression of functional art. Artisan crafted in Vietnam from NativeStone®, a proprietary blend of cement and renewable jute fiber, Anacapa is 40 percent lighter, stronger, and more sustainable than traditional concrete. The design meets UPC/cUPC and ADA standards and is backed by a five-year warranty. To ensure enduring performance, each sink is finished with NativeStone Shield™, a breakthrough sealer that penetrates the surface at a molecular level, creating a barrier that’s impervious to stains, scratches, water, oils, acids, and food. Available in ten finishes, from versatile neutrals such as Pearl, Ash, Slate, and Charcoal to nature inspired hues including Ocean, Sage, Forest, and Terracotta, Anacapa invites designers to create serene, organic modern spaces rooted in timeless elegance.
Practical and Beautiful, a New Look for Shower Pans
Shower Pans LLC specializes in sleek, high-performance shower pans that fuse modern aesthetics with practical innovation. Known for clean lines, minimalist forms and finishes ranging from matte textures to stone-look surfaces, Shower Pans offers customizable solutions ideal for residential, commercial and ADA-compliant projects. The company’s products reflect a modern European design sensibility, appealing to architects and designers seeking spa-like environments.
Beyond style, the pans are built for durability and safety. Made from resin and mineral composites, they’re non-porous, hygienic and long-lasting. Many models feature Class 3 anti-slip ratings, making them ideal for families, senior living spaces and hotels. With its blend of form and function, the company is redefining bathroom design across markets.
Summit SDHWC98PNR is a dual zone wine cellar uniquely sized at 71 3/4" H x 23 1/2" W x 18" D. This allows integrated installation in cutouts sized at 72" H x 24" W x 20" D, bringing commercial grade wine storage to dining room corners, basement bars, ADUs and tiny homes, and converted spaces that were not designed to hold a traditional 24" deep appliance. Designed for premium storage and presentation, this model features tri-colored lighting in amber, blue, and white, allowing you to create and adjust the look. The double tempered glass door features a seamless stainless steel trim that can also be modified with custom panels using Summit's innovative bracket system, a faster panel installation process that won't damage the door should you choose to revert to the stainless look.
Thermador: Perfect Pairing for Culinary and Cooling Excellence
Experience award-winning performance and perfect design harmony with Thermador Refrigeration and Range solutions, tailored for designers seeking endless combinations to create the ultimate powerhouse kitchen. Separately superior, together unstoppable, Thermador offers high-performance preservation with options including Columns, Bottom Freezers, Freestanding units, and Wine storage. The versatile Freedom® Refrigeration Collection stands out with luxurious stainless-steel interiors, theater-style lighting, and superior cooling performance, allowing designers to configure personalized refrigeration solutions. Complement this with unmatched power and performance in a range of sizes, featuring gas, dual fuel, and induction options. Designers can choose the power of patented Star® Burners or the sleek precision of induction surfaces, experiencing legendary performance with Thermador True Convection Ovens. Explore our collections to discover your perfect pair and harness powerful precision, creating kitchens that break every mold and elevate culinary design to new heights.
Check out this recent album on Facebook. These beautiful pantries perfectly blend practicality and design. Ideal for entertaining, these spaces offer an out-of-sight prep area with maintenance-free Cambria natural quartz countertops.
Pictured here: #CambriaBrittanicca photographed by Scott Amundson
The Communications Committee seeks contributors for outbound marketing to provide relevant industry news. We'd love you to join our team if you have social media or writing skills. Please contact Communications@nkbamanhattan.org.
The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through the creation of certifications, marketplaces, and networks.
