Stay connected on WhatsApp: For those attending KBIS- Connect with us! If you would like to be added to our NKBA KBIS Manhattan Chapter WhatsApp group, please email your contact info including name, cell phone and email to Rex Aguirre, Communications Chair at rex@premieresystemsdesign.com. We will be posting schedules and exchanging information on last minute updates about invites, special events and group gathering spots.
Visit Our Sponsors + Key Events
Tuesday 2/17 - WEST HALL Group Tour Times
8:00 AM - Opening Ceremony - Valencia Ballroom L415
9:00 AM - Kohler - W1700
9:30 AM - Cosentino W1029
10:00 AM - How AI is Redefining Lux Design, Panel - Luxury Lounge, W162/163
10:30 AM - Monogram/GE Appliances - W2141
11:30 AM - Signature Kitchen Suite - W2100
12:30 PM - True Residential - W873
1:00 PM - Summit Appliances - W1085
1:30 PM - Dacor - Samsung - W2073
2:30 PM - Cambria - W749
3:00 PM - Richelieu - W155
3:30 PM - Rev-A-Shelf - W328
Wednesday 2/18 - SOUTH HALL Group Tour Times
South Hall
8:30 AM - State of the Industry - S320E
10:30 AM - 11 AM - Hafele - Panel Discussion - S25005
11:00 AM - Houzz - Panel Discussion - W544
11:30 AM - NEXT Stage - S28291
12:30 PM - SHARP S25091
2:00 PM - Galley - S24015
2:30 PM - HieBAR Design - S25177
3:00 PM - NEXT Stage - S28201
West Hall
11:00 AM - Fabuwood - W1459
12:00 PM - The Color of Success, Panel, Luxury Lounge, W162/163
3:30 PM - Savant - S16065
5:00 PM - Richelieu Cocktail Party- W155
Thursday 2/19 - Group Tour Times
12:00 PM - NEXT Stage - KBB Person of the Year, S28201
Open to Visits
Cambria - W749
Cosentino - W1029
Native Trails Home - W587
Unique Appliances - W2287
Dacor - W2073
Houzz - W544
JennAir, Whirlpool - W701
Porcelanosa - W550
Cambria - W749
Rev-A-Shelf - W328
Savant - IBS
Sharp Electronics - S25091
SMEG - RC18
Key Events
Houzz - W544 - Wednesday 2/18
11 AM - Great Design Isn't Enough: Why Most Firms Struggle to Make Real Money. Featuring speakers: Laurie Laizure with Ellen Lopez, Shannon Gem and Meredith Huck
1 PM - Designing Blind: Why Ignoring Technology is Costing Your Projects. Featuring speakers: Rex Aguirre, and Toni Sabatino - a masterclass on integrating technology
2:15 PM - Wellbeing Isn't a Trend. It's the Job. Featuring speakers Andrea Risinger, Sharon Sherman, Tom Knotts and Frank DiFillipas
L to R: Ellen Lopez, welcomes guests to her first event as the new Programs Chair. Jeannine Price, new President, NKBA Manhattan Chapter thanks our hosts; Ernie Wohlleben, CEO Architech Designs talks about the space that his company helped to create and Serene Darwish, COO Architech Designs describes what the Vintners Club is all about.
Raising a Glass to What’s Next
Manhattan NKBA welcomed its 2026 Chapter Officers during an evening of celebration.
By Pamela McNally
A standing-room-only crowd gathered to celebrate the induction of the 2026 incoming NKBA Manhattan Chapter Officers at the private, members-only Vintner’s Club in Tribeca. Set deep within the club’s subterranean resident artist’s studio, the striking space, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling artwork, made an immediate impression. Guests moved through wine-lined corridors showcasing member-labeled collections and visited an intimate private tasting room, creating an evening that felt both exclusive and immersive.
A special thank you to Ernie Wohlleben, CEO of Architech Designs, for helping secure this remarkable venue, and to both NKBA Manhattan Chapter Sponsors Architech Designs and Lutron for sponsoring the evening and making the celebration possible.
See more photos from the evening by Jeff Siegel Photography here.
A large canvas by New York Vintners’ resident artist Leopoldo Gout.
From left: Felicitas Oefelein, F.O. Design; and guest Sam Chowdhury, with resident artist Leopoldo Gout.
Natasha Haggman, Hills Residential Systems; and Sharon Sherman, Thyme & Place Design.
James Calvin III, Zimmer + Rohde; and David Bryant, Ciot.
NKBA Manhattan Chapter President Jeannine Price “sabering” a champagne bottle to celebrate her new position.
Benjamin Oliver McCarthy, architect for New York Vintners with Q,a rising American alternative R&B singer, songwriter, and producer.
The New York Vintner’s resident artist Leopoldo Gout (second from left) with Derrick Gibbs and his wife Joan Gibbs, Project Designer, Home Depot and Yvonne Cannon, Yvonne Cannon Interior Designer.
Friends catch up on the latest with Brooklyn-based performance artist, Asia Stewart, far right.
Yuli Agiv, left, Territory Manager of Chapter Sponsor,Vadara, and Barbara Haberman, Home Furnishing Consultant at Bloomingdale’s, are both frequent NKBA communications contributors.
Heading to KBIS
As I write this month’s President’s Letter, I’m gearing up for one of the most anticipated events in our industry — KBIS and IBS in Orlando next week.
I’m excited to see what our sponsors and partners will be unveiling this year. These shows are where innovation takes center stage — from cutting-edge product launches to forward-thinking design solutions that shape what’s next for our industry.
Beyond the booths and exhibits, KBIS and IBS are also about connection. Coming from New York, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and colleagues from across the country, spend time with fellow NKBA chapters, and strengthen the relationships that make our design community so dynamic and collaborative.
We’ll be bringing it all back to you. Stay tuned for details on our upcoming KBIS Recap event at the end of March — dates and information to follow.
In the meantime, stay warm… I’m packing my industry sneakers and heading to Orlando. Let’s see what 2026 has in store.
Warmly,
Jeannine Price
President, NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter
Photo on the left: Taking a quick break at last year’s KBIS show in Las Vegas with designers Joan Ravasy, left, and Julie Schuster, right.
Member Spotlight: Joey Mortel
“Seeing how hard [my mother] worked influenced the way I put my all into any position I take on.”
—Joey Mortel, Richelieu Hardware
By Pamela McNally
For Joey Mortel, a career in the kitchen and bath industry has been shaped as much by people as by products. Raised in Rockland County, New York, Joey grew up in a community where everyone was treated like family, an experience that instilled in him a lasting appreciation for connection, collaboration, and showing up for others.
That mindset was reinforced early on by watching his mother’s work ethic and dedication to supporting her family. “Seeing how hard she worked influenced the way I put my all into any position I take on,” says Joey. It’s a philosophy that continues to guide his professional approach today.
Early Curiosity Takes Shape
While attending St. John’s University, Joey found himself drawn to the wave of new housing developments emerging around him. At the time, it was curiosity. Years later, that interest has evolved into a career directly tied to the interior design and specification side of residential and commercial projects.
Joey’s first paid job came at age fourteen, working as a bookkeeper for a travel agency. The role taught him foundational lessons about customer communication, organization, and attention to detail. Those skills would follow him through every stage of his professional life.
A Pivotal Turn
Before entering the design world, he spent time at Verizon Wireless, where a pivotal relationship changed his trajectory. A top business customer introduced him to the tile and stone industry, sparking an interest that would define the next chapter of his career. Joey credits Anthony Geraci with opening that door and encouraging him to take the leap.
His formal entry into the kitchen and bath space began more than a decade ago while working as a Showroom Coordinator at European Granite and Marble, followed by a similar role at Daltile. These early positions provided hands-on exposure to materials, specifications, and the day-to-day realities of working closely with designers and trade professionals.
The Work Today
Today, Joey serves as a Specification Representative with Richelieu Hardware, a Canadian company with headquarters in Houston, Texas. He values the flexibility of his role and the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of design firms on diverse projects. Among the work he finds most rewarding is a new office project in Long Island, developed in collaboration with NKBA Board Member Ellen Lopez of El Design Studio.
Lessons That Stick
A standout moment in Joey’s professional growth came during a site visit last year, when an industry veteran pulled him aside for a candid conversation about the design business and the responsibilities of a specification representative. The recognition of Joey’s potential, along with practical guidance on how to sharpen his skills, left a lasting impression and continues to inform how he approaches his work.
Joey joined NKBA in the summer of 2024, shortly after starting with Richelieu. For him, membership represents an opportunity to deepen his knowledge, strengthen industry relationships, and stay closely connected to the professional community.
Beyond the Job
Outside of work, Joey lives in Brooklyn, NY, and enjoys reading, playing basketball, and cheering on St. John’s University basketball and the New York Jets. He values time with his family, especially beach days, and has a strong interest in investing. One lesser-known fact: Joey has also produced fashion and art events in New York City, bringing people together through creative experiences, another thread that runs consistently through his career.
Looking Ahead
As he looks to the future, Joey remains focused on expanding his connections, continuing to learn, and contributing meaningfully to an industry he’s proud to be part of.
Welcome New Members
Joseph Roszak, Caesarstone
Chris Agostinelli, LIXIL
Amie Milano, LIXIL
Alison Spor, Altherm
Nicole Doherty, Loti Kitchens
Vivian Lee, NYSID
Stetsenko Evgeniya, NY Institute of Art & Design
Austin Oxenhirt, K&B Creations
Danielle Zbodula, AJ Madison
Ronan Doherty, Loti Kitchens
Welcome New Sponsors
Serving the Trade, Supporting Design, For Over 60 Years.
We are pleased to announce that Albano Appliance is a 2026 Gold Sponsor of the NKBA Manhattan Chapter which now encompasses the Westchester group.
Albano Appliance is a family-run business with more than 60 years of experience serving the Westchester community and the greater tri-state area from its showroom in Pound Ridge, New York. Family is both our heritage and our guiding philosophy in how we serve our customers. From premium kitchen suites to replacement projects, we support a full range of appliance needs. We offer an extensive selection of premium brands and deep expertise in both indoor and outdoor kitchens.
We are proud to partner with Manhattan New York NKBA to further industry outreach to the professional trade community. Stay tuned for exciting upcoming events.
Originally a division of Ajax Hardware (California) Rev-A-Shelf was established in 1984 as a division of Jones Plastics and Engineering, a family owned injection molder of appliances parts, and other custom polymer components (ISO 9002 Certified) with six manufacturing facilities in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mexico.
Our Product line began as metal and polymer Lazy Susan components manufactured for the largest U.S. cabinet manufacturers and has grown into the market leading innovator of quality, functional residential cabinet storage and organizational products such as Lazy Susans, Kitchen Drawer Organizers, Base Cabinet and Pantry Pull-Outs, functional Waste Containers, LED lighting systems and Childproof Locking System. Our worldwide presence extends from the U.S. to Europe, Asia, and Mexico, with factories, warehouses and satellite offices strategically located to serve an expanding customer base of kitchen dealers, architects, furniture manufactures, cabinet industry distributors and retail home centers worldwide.
For over 30 years, Architech Designs has been an industry leader; one of the premier integrators of luxury residential and commercial technologies in the United States. Specializing in highly custom end-to-end system integration, our staff of expert lighting designers, electricians, programmers, and engineers bring a collaborative and design-forward approach to every project; we work with you and your team to create the incredible.
With over two decades in the kitchen and bath industry, Jeannine brings a dynamic background with deep expertise in custom cabinetry. She is the East Coast Representative for Custom Wood Products, an employee-owned custom cabinetry manufacturer known for its craftsmanship, collaboration, and long-term value.
As President of the NKBA Manhattan Chapter, and a longtime chapter leader and former Membership Chair, Jeannine is passionate about education, mentorship, and meaningful industry connections. She is committed to fostering growth, championing NKBA’s 30 Under 30 program, and empowering the next generation—while keeping the chapter engaged, inspired, and moving forward.
TONY MONTELEONE, SECRETARY/TREASURER
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.
REX AGUIRRE, COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
Rex Aguirre is Founder and President of Premiere Systems Design, an award-winning design firm that provides high-end technology services for residential, commercial, and retail locations in New York City, the Hamptons, and Long Island.
As an active member and one of the current leaders of NKBA Manhattan, Rex has forged strong relationships with designers. He is committed to close collaboration and mutual education, knowing that when design and technology come together, the people who live and work in these spaces benefit most.
As Communications Chair, he will ensure that the chapter’s communications are informative, engaging, and inspiring to members and the design-build industry.
ROSE OTT, ADVOCACY COMMITTEE CHAIR
Rose Ott is the owner and principal designer of her full-service boutique interior design firm specializing in kitchens and baths. Rose is AKBD certified and has transformed spaces to meet client needs through mindful design for 23 years. She 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.
ELLEN LOPEZ, PROGRAMS CHAIR
Ellen Lopez CMKBD is Owner and Creative Director of EL Design Studio. Her firm specializes in all areas of home renovations, as well as new builds, bringing "flow and function” to all the spaces she creates. 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 Programs Chair for the Manhattan Chapter.
BARBARA HABERMAN, ACTING SECRETARY
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 Membership and Recruitment Committees, contributing to social media content development, the newsletter, and participates as one of the judges for the “best of awards” at trade shows. She helps coordinate volunteer efforts for NKBA Manhattan’s special events and also enjoys giving back through the Advocacy Committee on events with God’s Love We Deliver.
JULIE SCHUSTER, SPONSORSHIP CHAIR
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. A former NKBA Manhattan Chapter President, she is currently focused on Chapter Sponsor relations, as well as collaborating with Rose Ott on the Advocacy and Student Initiative Committee. She just completed 3 years on the National Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC).
DIANA MOSHER, MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
Diana has lived in apartments most of her life and currently resides in a co-op in the historic district of Jackson Heights. This lived experience gives her an edge when working with residential design clients in apartments. Diana also works with apartment developers and property managers. With years of industry experience as a real estate and design editor, Diana’s deep knowledge of the multifamily industry helps her know what will resonate with renters and buyers in the marketplace. Her expertise at the intersection of interior design and marketing helps ensure her clients are spending their design dollars wisely. Drawing from her extensive network of eclectic resources and trend forecasting, she sources furniture and finishes that will continue to look fresh and relevant for years to come. As Membership Chair, she is committed to seeking new constituents to support NKBA Manhattan Chapter growth.
Join the Conversation
That question, along with a few others designers don’t talk about enough, are front and center in our KBIS programming at Booth hashtag#W544.
Join us for conversations on:
• Why designers struggle to close with Jennifer Davis and Ali Faulkner, and what actually helps move clients forward
We’ll also be hosting Houzz Pro sessions focused on running a smarter, more efficient design business.
Going to KBIS?
We're thrilled to have one of our members, Sharon Sherman, founder of Thyme and Place Design and KBB's Person of the Year, speaking at the NEXT Stage during KBIS on February 19th at 12PM with Chelsie Butler. Register and join!
The Galley & Albano Appliance Invite you to Wellness in the Kitchen
Join us for a Happy Hour CEU at Albano Appliance and explore the intersection of kitchen design and wellness, focusing on how the thoughtful selection and integration of appliances can enhance health and well-being.
The Certified Access Solutions and Safety Integrator (CASSISM) training program is a 23 hour educational program specifically designed to teach designers, contractors, Realtors™, architects, engineers, occupational therapists, system integrators and all those who may be interested in knowing more about how homes can be designed/remodeled or built to be visitable, livable, adaptable, functional and Full Access. The classes included in the program teach not only why homes need to be more functional but also how the design and construction process is accomplished.
Love looks good on VOLA. Shown in red for Valentine’s Day, VOLA’s three-hole deck-mounted basin or kitchen faucet transforms a functional essential into a bold design statement. Defined by its clean lines, standard 1" lever, and distinctive double swivel spout, the faucet reflects the enduring principles of Danish modernism - clarity, precision, and purpose, while offering the flexibility required for everyday use. The expressive red finish adds an unexpected layer of warmth and personality, proving that timeless design can also be playful. Crafted in Denmark and manufactured to order, every VOLA faucet embodies a commitment to quality, longevity, and architectural integrity. Explore this and the full VOLA collection in the Hastings Bath Collection showroom in the A&D building, where iconic design and thoughtful craftsmanship come together beautifully.
Porcelanosa Noken introduces its new Brushed Brass finish, a refined option designed to elevate contemporary kitchens and bathrooms with warmth, depth, and visual richness.
Beyond its visual appeal, Brushed Brass is engineered for everyday living. Its subtle texture helps minimize the appearance of fingerprints and water spots, making it both practical and beautiful for high-use environments. The finish pairs effortlessly with a wide range of materials—from marble and natural stone to wood cabinetry and large-format porcelain—allowing designers and homeowners to create cohesive, sophisticated interiors. Designed to complement a wide range of interior styles, Brushed Brass brings timeless elegance with a contemporary touch.
Whether you’re updating a guest bath or designing a signature kitchen, the Brushed Brass finish transforms everyday fixtures into standout design elements — proving that small details make a big impact.
Jhanique Lovejoy
Kate Clancy
New Faces Join the Sub Zero, Wolf and Cove Manhattan Team
Jhanique Lovejoy
Jhanique is our new Showroom Coordinator, supporting not only our Manhattan showroom, but also our Roslyn Heights and Pine Brook locations. She is a graduate of Swarthmore College with a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art & Ethnomusicology. Her professional experience blends creativity and logistics, including roles as Program Coordinator at the Bronx River Art Center, Gallery Intern at Eric Firestone Gallery, and Graphic Designer at The Baldwin United Fund. Outside of work, Jhanique enjoys visiting museums and has recently started collecting vinyl records.
Kate Clancy
Kate joins us as a Showroom Consultant with luxury background experience, previously serving as the Assistant Client Relations & Operations Manager at Vera Wang and a Bridal Stylist at Grace Loves Lace. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, she holds a B.S. in Fashion Business Management, where she studied marketing, merchandising, global trade, and supply chain strategy. When she’s not traveling, Kate enjoys exploring New York City restaurants and visiting her family back home in Massachusetts.
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.
