LUXURY BUS PICKUP at the A&D Building, departing to CIOT Galleria in Brooklyn for a DELICIOUS LUNCHEON, A TOUR OF THE STUNNING GALLERIA, and an insightful SUSTAINABILITY PRESENTATION by the CIOT team.
Join us for our Annual Earth Day Chapter Meeting at the Dacor Showroom in the A&D Building. Dacor will update us on their latest sustainability initiatives while we enjoy a specially curated Earth Day-themed menu prepared by Dacor’s culinary team.
Join NKBA Manhattan on May 15 for an insightful chapter meeting hosted by Häfele America. Lighting expert Kelly Inglis will present "Think Inside the Box: Lighting Up Cabinetry," exploring innovative millwork lighting solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, and more.
Gain expert insights on planning, installation, and the latest lighting technologies. This CEU-accredited session will help you integrate seamless, customized lighting into your designs. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a true industry leader!
NKBA’s March chapter meeting was a feast for the senses, including the cool touch of stone, the taste of delicious Argentinian wines, the aromatic smells of hors d'oeuvres, and the hubbub of design pros reconnecting.
NKBA Manhattan-NYC Programs Chair and kitchen designer Joan Ravasy moderated a panel with our three sponsors: Cosentino, Franz Viegener, and Custom Wood Products.
As host for the evening, Meghan De Praeter of Cosentino City, New York, explained how the space functions not just as a showroom but as a shop room and atelier, where designers and architects can explore, invite clients, create mood boards, and play with fabric and wood (neither of which Cosentino sells) to help clients visualize and green-light projects.
The packed room of professionals watched “The KBIS Cut,” a narrated visual experience of KBIS 2025 with trends, photos, and picks. NKBA Global President & CEO Bill Darcy made a cameo appearance on screen. View the video here!
The KBIS Cut Panel From L to R: Jeannine Price of Custom Wood Products, Meghan De Praeter of Cosentino, John Weinstein of Franz Viegener, panel moderator Joan Ravasy, and video presenter Ellen Lopez. Photo by Jeff Siegel.
The evening was not without levity, such as the moment when John Weinstein, CEO of Franz Viegener America Corporation, quoted NKBA Manhattan President Charlé-John, saying, “CJ refers to us as the Harry Winston of bath fixtures,” he should know as their international ad agency 'back-in-the-day.'
Jeannine Price, Regional Sales Manager, Custom Wood Products, Inc., explained how the company creates custom pieces for which a designer can choose the wood’s color and finish and increase the height. She said, “It’s like having your own millwork shop in your pocket.”
Lucky raffle winners took home prizes, including red and white wine from Catena Zapata vineyards in Argentina. Global partners of Franz Viegener, Catena Zapata was rated the #1 vineyard in the world in 2023 and the #1 ancient vineyard to visit in Mendoza, Argentina. We were told it is the oldest family-owned vineyard in the world. To view Jeff Siegel's gallery of photos from the night, click!
Noteworthy Mentions:
Cosentino’s Le Chic Bohème by Silestone XM was honored as a Silver Best of KBIS winner in the Sustainable Standout category, partly for its commitment to renewable energy production.
Franz Viegener’s new PVD (physical vapor deposition) technique makes their black-finished faucet extraordinarily durable and more chip-resistant.
Custom Wood Products can ship a custom cabinet in one piece as large as 10-feet high by 46” wide.
As we enter spring and approach Earth Day, our sponsors spoke of their commitment to sustainability. Meghan De Praeter of Cosentino said it best, reminding us that “the earth is the only one that exists like it.”
NKBA Manhattan Chapter Council President Charlé-John Cafiero gives some opening remarks.
Photo by Jeff Siegel.
The packed room of professionals watched “The KBIS Cut.” Photo by Jeff Siegel.
Meghan De Praeter, explains the helpful features of Cosentino City Center. Photo by Jeff Siegel.
Toni Sabatino shows an NKBA member some of the extraordinary details of Franz Viegener luxury fixtures. Photo by Jeff Siegel.
John Weinstein of Franz Viegener tells audience about the features of their luxury bath fixtures. Photo by Jeff Siegel.
Left to right: Ellen Lopez, Charlé-John Cafiero, Joan Ravasy, Julie Schuster, Tony Monteleone, Barbara Haberman (front), Jeannine Price (rear). Toni Sabatino and Rex Aguirre holding gifts. Photo by Jeff Siegel.
John Weinstein of Franz Viegener chats with Lee Miner of Robert Miner Associates Inc. while sampling Catena Zapata wines from Argentina. Photo by Jeff Siegel.
Spring Has Sprung (Sort Of)…
But We’re Already in Full Bloom!
The flowers might be playing hard to get this year, but our chapter is bursting with energy, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart. In these ever-changing times, the power of community has never been more essential—and at NKBA Manhattan-NYC, we’re all about lifting each other up. Our mission? We aim to bring you dynamic networking events, relevant industry content, and fun in collaborative spaces, supporting your professional journey and passion for design. Together, we’re building something more substantial than any outside challenge.
We summed up February with a fantastic 2025 KBIS Wrap-Up event—what a celebration! Huge thanks to our generous sponsors: Franz Viegener, Custom Wood Products, and our gracious host showroom, Cosentino. Programs co-chairs Joan Ravasy and Ellen Lopezwowed us with a cutting-edge, energetic video recap filled with fresh finds from KBIS. And Global President & CEO Bill Darcy made a special video appearance from his “State of the Industry” presentation. (click the link to view KBIS Recap Video). Don’t miss Jennifer’s recap and Jeff Siegel’s stellar photo highlights story!
Now, we’re diving headfirst into April—aka Sustainability Month—with an Earth Day experience you won’t want to miss. We’re talking about a luxe field trip to Brooklyn to tour the iconic CIOT showroom, complete with a CEU luncheon. Free to all -- non.members can register here. Then hop back on the bus and head to the A&D Building for an elegant evening at the Dacor Kitchen Theater, where cocktails, delicious bites from the Dacor Chef, and meaningful conversation await. It's a full day of learning, connection, and celebration.
Our sustainability theme continues with thoughtful editorial content from our own Sharon L Sherman. Further, incredible sustainability insights from NKBA National, including The Future of Sustainable Certification, Smart Water Solutions, The Role of Energy-Efficient Appliances, and The Green Tile Revolution. [Click here to explore more.]
Member Spotlight: Crystal Britt
This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Crystal Britt, the new manager of Miele’s Experience Center in the A&D Building. Crystal brings a fresh energy and warm presence to the space, and we encourage you to stop by, say hello, and get to know her. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect and welcome her to our community!
Speaking of inspiring connections, Council Members Rose Ott and Julie Schuster recently took a few NKBA Manhattan-NYC designers to The High School of Fashion Industries to present at Career Day– “Options in Design.” Sharing our passion with the next generation is not only rewarding, it’s how we help shape the future of our industry. See more in the newsletter.
Looking Ahead--
Lighting Up May with Hafele
Mark your calendars! May’s Chapter Event is going to be brilliant—literally. We're partnering with our gracious sponsor, Häfele, for an illuminating evening focused on lighting design. This CEU-accredited program features an expert NKBA speaker who will dive into advanced lighting technologies, creative applications, and how to integrate lighting into your millwork and overall design plans seamlessly. Whether you’re refining a kitchen concept or layering ambiance in a luxury bath, this event will spark ideas and innovation. And did we mention? Häfele knows how to host a fantastic evening—we can’t wait!
Volunteers: The Heart of NKBA
Behind every successful event, initiative, and moment of inspiration are the dedicated volunteers who make it all happen. All 70 NKBA chapters run on the passion and commitment of volunteer leaders. Our 'Get Involved + Grow' article in this month's newsletter introduces you to our NKBA NYC Council Committee Chairs—the heartbeat of our chapter. Get to know them and reach out to the council member committees directlyto help you find the right fit for your interests.
There’s no better way to expand your network, grow your leadership skills, and deepen your connection to our vibrant design+build community.
And One Final Thought…
As we continue navigating the ups and downs of our busy lives, let’s carry one simple but powerful reminder: kindness matters.Whether it’s the person helping you on a customer service line, a teammate on your job site, your partner, or your neighbor—leading with kindness makes a difference. A small gesture can brighten someone’s entire day—and in times like these, that’s more valuable than ever.
I invite you to join us in shaping the future of our chapter. Whether through volunteering on a committee or attending our events, there are endless ways to get involved and make a difference. Contact me or Communications@nkbamanhattan.com.
Charlé-John
President, NKBA-NYC Chapter
Welcome new sponsors!
Gold Sponsor Ciot to Sponsor Galleria Visit
CIOT New York, a showroom and slab galleria located in Brooklyn, is a destination for natural stone, engineered slabs, mosaics, tiles, and hardwood, offering a curated collection of exclusive and custom products for both residential and commercial projects.
Custom Wood Products (CWP), founded in 1981, is a company specializing in handcrafted, custom cabinetry, known for its focus on quality, customer relationships, and on-time delivery, with a philosophy centered around treating people with integrity and providing customers with more than they expect.
Crystal Britt began her academic journey at Stuyvesant High School, one of the top schools in NYC, known for its rigorous academics and competitive sports teams. But then, the events of 9/11 unfolded. Given the school's proximity to the Twin Towers and her long commute, she and her family decided it would be best to transfer to a school closer to home. That led her to Edward R. Murrow High School in Brooklyn. Unlike Stuyvesant, Murrow had no sports teams, so she joined the mock trial club. Crystal said, while it didn’t lead to a career in law, that activity was instrumental in building my confidence in public speaking and defending ideas effectively. It also helped me realize my passion for advocacy, shaping the direction of my future career.
Tell us about your college experience.
At SUNY Albany I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Women’s Studies with a concentration on marginalized communities. Attending school in the state’s capital gave me the opportunity to serve as a legislative intern for New York State Assembly Member Helene Weinstein, who represents my Brooklyn neighborhood. This experience was truly eye-opening. It not only gave me insight into the challenges facing my community but also reinforced the impact we can have in our daily lives by voting—especially in local elections, where officials play a direct role in shaping our neighborhoods.
What other memorable positions did your career path take you on?
Well, my very first job was as a Summer Camp counselor at age 14. Since then I’ve held multiple roles in the art and design space, but one that was completely unrelated and my most interesting, was my time at Charitybuzz, an online auction platform that raises funds for nonprofit organizations in a unique way—by auctioning off exclusive experiences with celebrities. In my role, I coordinated these experiences, serving as the bridge between auction winners and the celebrities’ teams to ensure seamless execution. Wearing so many hats there, forced me to learn a lot, as well as utilize my time as effectively as possible.
Was there any one person that influenced or inspired you the most that may have helped you with your career choices?
That would probably be my mom. She taught high school English before retiring from the New York City Department of Education, then went on to become an English professor at her alma mater, Columbia University. Her journey has profoundly influenced my own career path, instilling in me a passion for roles that challenge me and foster continuous growth and above all, to seek opportunities that support my professional development, which remains a top priority.
Crystal’s dream vacation– checking out some luxurious goodies while shopping in Paris.
And now you are the Miele Experience Center Manager. Were you always interested in the kitchen/bath design world?
I've always been passionate about luxury goods. This world of kitchen/bath design is honestly one that I became exposed to as a result of my role prior to Miele when I was Customer Service Manager, for an Italian plumbing manufacturer. My love for high-quality products, combined with my background in customer service, made this field a perfect fit. I honed my skills in delivering exceptional service while working with premium products.
And what is the favorite part of your current position with Miele?
I truly enjoy the learning aspect of my current role. Every day, I walk away with something valuable, whether it's a new insight into the product or a fresh perspective from someone visiting the experience center. Each interaction provides an opportunity for growth and discovery.
And how do you spend some of your free time?
I enjoy art, comedy, shopping, and I have recently begun taking tennis lessons. I travel at least 3 times per year. This year I’ll be heading to Jamaica, Myrtle Beach and my favorite place— Paris. The food, the sites, and the shopping are all things that make this my most loved city to visit. I also have my future sights on Iceland, seeing the Northern Lights as well as the Blue Lagoon.
One more thing- do you have a favorite dish or restaurant you’d recommend?
Try the Lobster Noodles at Wayan on Spring Street in Soho. A favorite of mine.
GET INVOLVED + GROW
Grow your network and business, and make the most of your membership by getting involved and volunteering! Several committees are actively looking for volunteers to participate.
MEET THE 2025 COUNCIL + COMMITTEE CHAIRS of the NKBA MANHATTAN NYC CHAPTER
Charlé-John Cafiero is a veteran of the design and technology industry and a longtime digital marketing SEO specialist in viral ID and branding campaigns. Servicing the B2B and B2C luxury and technology markets. As a dedicated member of the NKBA Manhattan-NYC Chapter, Charlé-John (CJ) has served as Communications and Programs Chairs. He has been President since 2024, overseeing the board and all chapter activities.
Joan Ravasy is a residential and commercial interior designer providing thoughtful services to clients in the New York, New Jersey, and Palm Beach areas. As Chair of the NKBA Manhattan-NYC Chapter Programs Committee, Joan leads the effort to bring interesting, relevant, and informative programming to our Chapter. Every month members get to connect through interesting events and CEU opportunities.
Jamie Keel brings a personal passion for design to his everyday work where he manages architect and designer relationships for Cambria. He has served on the Chapter Council since 2022. Currently Jamie, serving as Communications Chair, has elevated our online presence, driving record-breaking engagement across all our social media platforms.
Diana Mosher runs her namesake design practice specializing in both commercial and residential design in the New York area. Appointed this year as the chapter’s Membership Chair, she is committed to seeking new constituents to support NKBA Manhattan Chapter growth. Diana also introduced our Chapter's Trade Fair Inspire Awards Program.
Tony Monteleone is a seasoned sales professional with experience in media, specializing in consumer tech, appliances, and interior design. He held key roles with industry media and events like Dealerscope and Connected Design, Metrosource, TWICE, Time Out New York, CES Daily, CE Week, and IFA Berlin. Currently, Tony serves as Secretary/Treasurer on the NKBA Manhattan Chapter Board and continues to help brands reach retail success.
Rose Ott has been involved in the industry since 2003. As an interior designer she has a wide range of experiences that include graphics, fashion and painted murals, Rose is an active member of the NKBA Manhattan Chapter, previously serving as treasurer, and more recently as the Advocacy Chair focusing on educational initiatives and outreach for volunteer efforts like God’s Love We Deliver.
Julie Schuster runs a namesake wellness-focused design practice in NYC. She has a passion for creating design solutions for all homes and working spaces that are innovative, functional, and personalized. As a former NKBA Manhattan Chapter President, she is currently focused on educational initiatives, like the upcoming career fair, as part of her work with Rose Ott on the Advocacy and Student Initiative Committee. She currently serves on the national Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC).
Toni Sabatino has been involved with the NKBA Manhattan Chapter for over 10 years. She has served as Chair of Membership, Communications, and was honored as NKBA President of the Year 2018. Toni is AKBD certified and currently serves as Chapter Sponsorship Chair. She is passionate about creating spaces that work for people of all ages and abilities, integrating technology for security, comfort and entertainment into her designs. She was also honored as one of the Powerful Women in Consumer Technology 2019 by Dealerscope magazine.
Jeannine has an extensive background in luxury design, specializing in custom cabinetry and bespoke interiors. A longtime NKBA Manhattan Chapter member and former Membership Chair, Jeannine remains deeply engaged, volunteering her time to support the membership and student initiative committees. As Chair of the Chapter Development Committee, she is passionate about mentorship and industry growth. Jeannine is committed to promoting NKBA's 30 under 30 program, fostering connections, and empowering the next generation of design professionals.
Barbara Haberman is a dedicated design enthusiast with a vast array of experience including retail and publishing. Barbara received the 2023 NKBA Volunteer of the Year Award and continues to be very active, currently serving on the Memberships and Recruitment Committees, contributing to social media content development, and coordinating volunteer efforts with the Advocacy Committee on events with God’s Love We Deliver.
Ellen Lopez is the founder of EL Design Studio, specializing in kitchen and bath design, with focus on projects in the NY region. She has had many roles in the NKBA organization including Programs Chair with the NY Metro Chapter, serving nationally on the Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC), and now as a Co-Chair of Programs for the Manhattan Chapter.
Sharon L Sherman is a veteran of the design industry leading her own award-winning kitchen and bath design firm. As an active council member of the NKBA, Sharon presents regularly at conferences across the country on all things design, marketing and industry trends. Sharon is a contributing editor to the newsletter.
Maureen Klein has inspired audiences through her magazine editorships, books and decorating seminars. She has spearheaded creative projects for her community and professional organizations– Great Neck the Beautiful, ’Adopt an Island', TREK, an indoor toddler park and the IFDA 'Take a Seat’, chair auctions, to name a few. She developed the Vogue Butterick home decorating segments for PBS, and served as costume master for several opera companies. A participant in Designer Show Houses here, she also helped introduce the concept to Japan.
Jennifer Mirsky is a content expert whose work for world-class brands spans print, television, and digital media. She has led teams in the creation and production of award-winning sites, including those of Hearst (while at iVillage.com), Time Inc., and Meredith, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of Women’s Lifestyle in the interactive division. Jennifer and her team deliver content for small businesses and established nonprofits. She serves as Content Director for Premiere Systems Design, a technology design firm.
Michelle Shen is a VP at NYC-based public relations agency Diffusion PR. With over 15 years of experience in brand marketing, Michelle specializes in helping brands scale awareness through earned media, creative activations, and campaigns. She has a passion for design, having worked with top brands including Benjamin Moore, Valspar Paint, One Kings Lane, Dornbracht, Ferguson Kitchen & Baths, and more.
HOW CAN YOU HELP? VOLUNTEER!
JOIN the Programs Committee
Assist in ongoing event and programming planning.
Help out the committee with the April luxury bus tour to Brooklyn for the visit to the tile showroom CIOT x Earth Day immersion, and/or also help at the after-party at Dacor.
If interested in volunteering, please contact joan@joanravasydesign.com.
SIGN UP for the Communications Committee
Ineterested in writing, graphic design or social media and want to help communications efforts for the Chapter?
Please contact jamie.keel@cambriausa.com.
GET INVOLVED with the Membership Committee
Assist at the registration table for chapter events.
Help produce the Chapter's Inspire Awards at Trade Shows - including ICFF on Sunday, May 18 at Javits.
Interested? Please contact Diana at mosherdiana@gmail.com or 347.840.2499.
HELP the Advocacy and Student Initiative Committee
The Advocacy and Student Initiative Committees are looking for assistance with planning and staffing the Fall 2025 Career Fair.
We need YOU! Please contact Rose Ott and Julie Schuster at rose@roseottdesign.com and julie@jlsdesignstudio.com.
TRY the Newsletter Committee:
Always looking for graphic designers, proofreaders and field writers to cover Chapter and industry events.
Of interest? Let us know. Contact Maureen at getklein@optonline.net.
The New Meaning of Sustainability, An Inside Look
By Sharon L. Sherman -- Sustainability—it’s a word we see everywhere right now. In most design conversations, it’s become synonymous with materials: cradle-to-cradle lifecycles, recycled content, renewables, and repurposing. And while all of that matters, it barely scratches the surface. What if we take it one step further? What if we talk about the sustainability of people in their homes? For me, this is the new meaning of sustainability…..
Fabuwood is sponsoring a grant to provide NKBA certification to 20 industry design stars seeking certification. This opportunity is for NKBA members in good standing, designers currently working on kitchen and bath projects with a minimum of 2 years industry experience. Grant recipients will receive support throughout the certification process with special events and awards.
Deadline to apply is May 31, 2025. Learn more, view requirements and apply now here.
NKBA Manhattan-NYC Members Present At The High School Of Fashion Industries Career Options
By Rose Ott -- On Friday, March 21st, we had the privilege of participating in the 39th Career Day at the High School of Fashion Industries. Our team, led by Rose Ott and Julie Schuster, included presentations from Danielle Davis of 56th Street Design, along with Cindy Ramnarine and Morgan Miller from Sherwin Williams. Students eagerly signed up to explore the various career options available in interior design, and our classroom quickly became packed for both presentations. The students were highly engaged, asking insightful and thoughtful questions about the career paths in the industry.
< The NKBA team, left to right: Cindy Ramnarine, Rose Ott, Danielle Davis, Julie Schuster and Morgan Miller.
√ THESE OUT!
√ TAKE TWO NKBA Design + Business Webinars in April.
Zero Carbon Homes: Pioneering a Sustainable Future
Sustainable Bathroom Design: Eco-Friendly Solutions for Today’s Homes
√ TIME IN! April is #NKBA Sustainability Month
Sustainability is more than about the materials selected—it’s about how the space fits the end user and how the design can support them for years. Quality, locally sourced materials (cabinets) and ethically manufactured products (countertops) add to the overall sustainability.
The Future of Sustainable Certifications: What Kitchen and Bath Pros Need to Know
Smart Water Solutions: From Windsor Castle to KBIS 2025
The Role of Energy-Efficient Appliances in Sustainable Kitchen Design
The Green Tile Revolution: Sustainable Flooring and Wall Solutions
A finalist in the Best Of KBIS's "Sustainable Standout" category, Richelieu's new Sustainable Decorative Hardware marks a breakthrough in eco-friendly decorative hardware and an essential step in protecting our oceans.
The contemporary line of knobs and pulls is made from recovered and recycled fishing net polymers (HDPE). Used and discarded fishing nets and trawls are sorted by color and processed into highly durable and moisture-resistant plastic. The line's up-to-the-minute color palette comes directly from the post-use fishing industry products with minimal use of additional pigments.
Hastings Bath Collection has launched an exquisite embossed Lookbook. This curated collection showcases the finest in contemporary Italian design, offering a visual journey through Hastings' unparalleled range of sinks and vanities.
Transform Your Client’s Kitchen with Thermador’s Kitchen Package Planner
Thermador’s Kitchen Package Planner simplifies creating the perfect kitchen for your clients. Choose from 4-piece or 5-piece appliance bundles, each combining exceptional quality and design. Thermador offers exclusive complimentary gifts with purchase, elevating the kitchen experience even further. This tool allows designers to offer clients a seamless, high-end kitchen solution with appliances that meet every culinary need.
Spanish Innovation in the Shower Space: Shower Pans by Palazzani Home Brings Style and Safety to the Forefront
Shower Pans, an emerging name in bath design, is gaining international recognition for its sleek, high-performance shower pans that fuse modern aesthetics with practical innovation. With manufacturing in Spain and a U.S. office in Jasper, Georgia, the company is expanding its presence across North America. 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. Its 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, Shower Pans is redefining bathroom design across markets.
Native Trails Unveils Arcata – A Bold New Undermount Trough Bath Sink
Native Trails introduces Arcata, a striking undermount trough sink from its NativeStone® Collection. Available in 30", 36", and 48" sizes, Arcata features four new earth-inspired finishes: Forest, Sage, Sand, and Terracotta. Made from NativeStone® – a blend of jute fiber and cement – it is 40% lighter than traditional concrete and extremely durable. Arcata resists stains, scratches, and cracks, making it ideal for both residential and commercial spaces.
Cambria’s Luxurious Kitchen Design by Christopher Peacock
Cambria collaborates with designer Christopher Peacock to create a luxurious kitchen featuring #CambriaBrittaniccaWarm on the backsplash and #CambriaWhiteCliff on the countertops. The dramatic movement of Brittanicca Warm pairs perfectly with the understated elegance of White Cliff, showcasing the versatility and beauty of Cambria surfaces. This design exemplifies the fusion of luxury, functionality, and timeless style.
The Communications Committee seeks a co-newsletter chair or editor for outbound marketing to supply or report on 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.
