New York Vintners is known as an exceptional wine club, but what many don't realize is just how much thoughtful audio, video, and lighting design lives behind the scenes. Our team has had the opportunity to design and integrate the TV's, sound system, architectural lighting, and immersive video mapping throughout the space, transforming it into both a refined member experience and our NYC Showroom.
This is a space where we proudly showcase what is possible, including our work with Lutron and other leading technology partners. It reflects the level of detail, performance, and creativity our AV experts bring to every project. Our team of audio, video, and lighting specialists will be on hand to share insights, answer questions, and give you a behind the scenes look at how the space was designed and brought to life.
Join us for an evening of discovery - expand your understanding of modern AV integration and lighting design while enjoying small bites, musical entertainment and, of course, the atmosphere of New York Vintners.
We can’t wait to show you what is possible!
And—
As we step into an exciting new year for the NKBA Manhattan Chapter, we’re also marking an important moment of transition. Our Incoming Board will be officially sworn in at our January event. This passing of the gavel reflects both continuity and momentum—honoring those who have served while welcoming the energy and vision of the new board. We’re excited to begin a new year focused on education, connection, and growth. We hope you’ll join us for this special evening as we welcome our new leadership team and look ahead to all that’s ahead
Sparkling Skyline, Stellar Night
By Barbara Haberman
Against the backdrop of the moon and city lights, it was a glamorous, glorious evening for a private dinner cruise on the Hudson with our NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter, friends and sponsors. Joan Ravasy, Programs Chair did a spectacular job planning every detail. As Ann Cohen commented, The holiday party was phenomenal! The DJ got everyone onto the dance floor with nostalgic music, lively beats, and of course, New York, New York. Gliding along the Hudson with a close-up peak at the Statue of Liberty and the twinkling skyline was an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday with NKBA. And in the holiday spirit of giving, guests came bearing gifts and we were able to donate 60 sets of pajamas to the Beyond Bedtime charity. Many thanks to our special event sponsors: Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove for the Premium Beverage Service; Runtal Radiators for the Premier Cuisine; The Galley for the Live DJ Music; Fabuwood for the Table Top Decor, and to everyone, cheers to 2026!
Was it a great party? Frank and Rose Ott’s smiles says it all.
Ellen Lopez and hubby Jorge Lopez danced the night away.
“I give up” says Nicolai Pamukoff of Ciot, surrounded by 3 lovely ladies.
Diane Mosher, Bianca Olsson of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove and Barbara Haberman pose with the event sponsor poster before heading into the warmth of the main cabin.
Chapter sponsors Rick Arajj of Runtal Radiators, David Bryant of Ciot and Zak Ali of AJ Madison.
Dinner mates: Serene Darwish, Rex Aguirre, Molly Jar, Mark Rosenhaus, Toni Sabatino, Barbara Haberman and Ann Cohen.
Party sponsors: Bianca Olsson, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove; Rick Arrajj, Runtal Radiators; and Meredith Miller, The Galley say a few words.
Michael Kaestner and Yumi Kim got the window seats and views in this on-board cabin table for four.
NKBA Manhattan Board/Council, what a lineup! Left to right: Rex Aguirre, Jeannine Price, Ellen Lopez, Rose Ott, Tara Pazinski, Joan Ravasy, Toni Sabatino, Barbara Haberman, Julie Schuster, Diana Mosher and new chapter sponsor Serene Darwish of ArchiTech Designs.
Ryan Behroozi and his wife Cecille arrive with a gift of PJ’s in the holiday spirit of giving.
Over the moon: Joan Ravasy, Julie Schuster, Suzie Wheeler and Tom Price.
City lights! Oh what a night! Left to right: Michael Kaestner, Rose Ott, Molly Jar, Barbara Haberman, Jeannine Price, Ann Cohen and Tom Price.
The final Hurrah! Joan Ravasy, who orchestrated the cruise and was the chapter’s Programs Chair the last two years, takes a deep breath. TAH DAH, a job well done Joan!
Giving Back a Little Time
By Maureen Klein
15 NKBA members made their way downtown to 166 Avenue of the Americas on December 17th, to give a hand at the God’s Love We Deliver(GLWD) headquarters. The crew helped pack meals which were then frozen, and later would be delivered by other volunteers to those people who, because of their illness, are unable to provide or prepare meals for themselves. The services of this non-sectarian organization are provided free without regard to income and are available to neighbors in need who live in NYC or Hudson County, New Jersey.
GLWD relies on the help of volunteers — more than 20,000 strong every year. We were just a drop in the bucket, but every volunteer helps to allow GLWD to cook and deliver over 80,000 meals each week!
Pictured left: Spending the afternoon giving back: L to R: Suzie Wheeler, Toni Sabatino, Maureen Klein, Emma Krasinski, Barbara Haberman, Ann Cohen, Jamie Keel, Cindy Ramnarine, Richard Segal, Sabrina Petrillo, Julie Shuster, Kristin Schecter, Ashley Bancroft, Rex Aguirre, and Emily Siguencia.
One of the GLWD directors welcomed us and went over the plan of action and what to expect and do in the kitchen.
There were two meal prep and packaging lines that evening. Here one crew portioned out a dinner entree of white fish, mashed potatoes along with a medley of mixed vegetables.
The group worked quickly scooping out potatoes and passing the container to the next in line.
The second group assembled a Ground Pork Stir Fry dinner.
Last assignment– We all gathered around 4 huge bins filled with onions and were told to cut each onion in half and peel. Tip: the icy cold onions meant less tears for us, as these 4 happy campers can attest.
After our shift was over the group posed in their required garb- including hair and beard-nets, aprons and disposable gloves. The NKBA shirts were a nice touch too!
A New Year, A Fresh Start, and What’s Ahead
Pictured above: Tom, Sydney, Jeannine and Amanda Price, celebrated the holidays at one of their favorite spots, an authentic Italian restaurant, Pulcinella's On The Green in Wading River, Long Island.
One of the greatest gifts of the holiday season is the time it gives us—to slow down, reconnect, and be fully present with the people who matter most. Time with family and friends reminds us why we do what we do, and the arrival of the New Year offers something just as valuable: space to pause, reflect, and reset.
That quiet moment between the holidays and January allows us to exhale, regroup, and step forward feeling rested, recharged, and ready for what’s next.
As we turn the page on a new year together, there’s a renewed sense of energy and excitement across our industry—and I couldn’t be more optimistic about what lies ahead for our chapter. And speaking of what’s next… KBIS is right around the corner.
KBIS is one of the most anticipated and impactful events of the year for our industry. It’s where innovation takes center stage—where we see firsthand what our sponsors and partners have been developing, connect with colleagues from across the country, and hear the voices shaping the future of kitchen and bath design. It’s a place to learn, to be inspired, and to strengthen the relationships that move our businesses—and our industry—forward.
As President of the NKBA Manhattan NYC Chapter, I’m incredibly proud of our community and grateful for the passion, talent, and collaboration that define it. This year is about connection, education, and growth—and I look forward to sharing that journey with all of you.
Here’s to a new year filled with inspiration, opportunity, and continued success—together.
Since I was a young girl, I loved drawing houses, developing floor plans and creating spaces with bright colors, says interior designer Mimi Levitan. Both parents encouraged her design interests. At the urging of her Levittown, NY art teacher, Bonnie Newman—who recognized and nurtured her aptitude for architecture and interior design—Mimi applied to the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). She received her Associate Degree in Interior Design in 1977. Mimi decided to continue her education at FIT and applied to, and was thrilled to be accepted into, their first four-year BFA program. “Talent or luck here—take your pick,” says Mimi.
During your teens, were you into sports or other interests?
LOL, not the sports girl in high school, or much of life for that matter (though as an adult I did take up skiing for many years). I was a member of ‘The Mural Club’…we painted all over the halls of the school. I actually loved math and took Architectural Drawing (one of only two girls in that class). History and Spanish were close seconds. Science was always at the bottom of my list. Though we had to take Home Economics, I was given permission to take shop.
Why shop?
I liked the idea of learning how to use a saw, a drill, and how to build things. I already had a pretty good understanding of the ‘home curriculum’ thanks to my mom and both grandmothers, who taught me well.”
Pictured below, one of Mimi's early designs and floor plans created when she was a young girl.
FIT was the only college you applied to. Was it a good fit?
My hard work at FIT paid off. In my Freshman year I won an award from the exclusive Decorators Club, the nation’s oldest women’s professional interior design organization. Also, a classmate and I were selected to develop the design for the NYC headquarters of the National Organization for Women (NOW). Our work was recognized in Interior Design magazine. So yes, the education and opportunities at FIT proved to be a very good fit.
Impressive, and what was your first job in the industry?
During my senior year, I worked for two of my professors who had an architectural firm, Panero Zelnick Associates. I did architectural and design work and was part of the team that completed the illustrations for their book, Human Dimension and Interior Space, which is still available today in many languages. Panero and Zelnik were mentors extraordinaire, and I remained friends with both until their passing.
And after college?
I was fortunate to work for many wonderful design firms. Highlights were serving as Lead Corporate Interior Designer for Switzer Group in NYC; Reel Grobman Associates in Los Angeles; and Gensler Associates in Los Angeles. I worked right up until I gave birth to my first child in 1991. Motherhood became my priority. After my second child, I slowly re-entered the working world by hand painting children’s furniture, kids’ murals, and faux finishes. Around 1994, when my second child was about a year old, a client said, “I wish I had somebody who could help me pick paint colors for my home”. That’s when my re-emergence as an interior designer came about, and MJL Design Group was born, focusing on residential interiors…allowing me to still be a stay at home mom and a career mom as well.
What do you enjoy today outside of design?
I LOVE to travel to cities and countries near and far. Each year I also make sure to take my solo Caribbean cruise for a much-needed recharge. I’m a HUGE fan of Broadway theatre, and after moving back to NYC in 2014, I take full advantage of this magical city. I am always a tourist here.
You mentioned a surprising project at sea?
Yes, that was my BFA thesis, which I did with a classmate. We read about the Navy wanting to start a program to improve habitability on aircraft carriers, so we submitted a proposal. As luck had it, we found ourselves out at sea for several days, analyzing living quarters, library, and other common areas. Following strict naval standards, we completed in-depth research and presented our thesis. Unfortunately the Navy had to squash the upgrade program, but we aced our paper and had the experience of a lifetime. Standing on deck watching planes take off and land—when they say they land on a dime, they’re not kidding.
I’d say, Mimi, it was a lot of talent—and maybe just a little luck—that shaped your amazing and colorful journey. Many thanks for sharing it with us.
Chair below, Mimi started painting kids furniture as a young mom. Recently she was asked to make a duplicate for the grandchild of the original client. A work in progress.
Welcome New Sponsors
Albano Appliance
Architech Designs
Rev-A-Shelf
The KBIS 2026 Show Is Just Around the Corner
KBIS 2026—the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, is fast approaching! From February 17–19, 2026, the industry will gather at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, once again co-located with the International Builders’ Show (IBS) for Design & Construction Week (DCW).
As North America’s largest kitchen and bath trade event, KBIS brings together the latest products, innovations, and trends from across the industry. Attendees can expect an expansive expo floor filled with hundreds of exhibitors, exciting new product launches, immersive design inspiration, and robust educational programming, including Voices From the Industry (VFTI) and NEXTStage sessions.
Key Details
Dates: February 17–19, 2026
Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida
Co-Located With: International Builders’ Show (IBS)
Who Attends: Kitchen & bath designers, architects, builders, remodelers, manufacturers, retailers, and industry professionals
What to Expect: New products, design trends, technology showcases, education, and valuable networking opportunities
Registration & Information: For details and registration, visit the official KBIS website at kbis.com.
Visit Our Sponsors
Richelieu - W155
Cosentino - W1029
Native Trails Home - W587
Signature Kitchen Suite - W2100
Unique Appliances - W2287
Dacor - W2073
Monogram - W2141
Houzz - W544
True Residential - W873
Fabuwood Cabinetry - W1459
Hafele - S25005
JennAir, Whirlpool - W701
Kohler - W1700
Porcelanosa - W550
Cambria - W749
Rev-A-Shelf - W328
How to KBIS
Join us for an informal upcoming Zoom on Thursday, January 29th at 5:30 pm where first-timers (or those just thinking about it) and more experienced NKBA attendees can join in the conversation.
We’ll share tips and suggestions on lodging, meals, and navigating the two big shows. Learn about special events and get leads and links for opportunities to mix with fellow members. Interested in learning more at our How to KBIS Zoom? Email Maureen atgetmklein@gmail.com. A reminder with the zoom link will be sent to you on Tuesday, January 27th.
The Galley x Hastings Present: Wellness in the Kitchen CEU
You're invited to a happy hour and CEU experience featuring The Galley's Director of A&D Samantha Jaramillo who will be speaking to the topic Cultivating Health Through Workstation Design. RSVP here.
Thursday, January 22nd
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Hastings Bath Collection
150 East 58th Street
New York, NY 10155
After the Entertaining Ends, Thermador Cleans Up
In today’s open-plan kitchens, preserving the ambiance you’ve meticulously designed is paramount. Thermador dishwashers deliver with whisper-quiet performance that never interrupts conversation.
For your clients who love to entertain, even the most demanding post-holiday cleanup becomes effortless. Flexible racks accommodate up to 18 wine glasses, while the Zone Control Spray Arm provides targeted cleaning. StarDry™ technology ensures everything emerges exceptionally dry and ready for immediate use, a key detail for luxury living.
From a design perspective, achieving a truly seamless look is simple. Panel-ready construction and handleless, push-to-open options allow for flawless integration with your custom cabinetry, creating a refined, uninterrupted aesthetic. Smart connectivity adds a final layer of modern convenience. Specify Thermador to deliver a sophisticated solution that balances powerful performance with beautiful design, adding lasting value and effortless luxury to your projects.
Native Trails Expands Its Solace Vanity Collection with New Sizes
Native Trails has expanded its beloved Solace Vanity Collection, offering new 36-inch and 60-inch sizes designed to meet the needs of both small baths and spacious retreats. Crafted from solid, FSC-certified oak, the Solace vanity strikes a perfect balance between timeless craftsmanship and modern design. Its transitional aesthetic blends effortlessly with a variety of interiors, while the handcrafted concrete accents introduce a refined, textural contrast.
Functionality shines through thoughtful details such as full-extension, soft-close drawers, a NativeStone® bottom shelf for additional storage, and a built-in U-channel for easy P-trap accommodation.
A low-VOC, water-resistant finish ensures long-lasting durability, even in humid environments. Available in Midnight Oak and Sunrise Oak, each piece pairs beautifully with Native Trails’ signature NativeStone® vanity tops and sinks. With its expanded size options and material artistry, the Solace collection brings a grounded yet elevated look to any bathroom setting.
Thermador Elevates Kitchen Design with Side-by-Side Wall Ovens
Thermador is redefining the modern kitchen with a design approach that goes “beyond the stack.” By specifying Thermador Built-In Wall Ovens in a side-by-side configuration, designers can create a commanding horizontal statement that blends seamlessly into contemporary cabinetry. This layout not only enhances the visual symmetry of the space but also offers significant ergonomic advantages.
Placing the ovens at a customized height creates an accessible, comfortable cooking zone tailored to the homeowner’s needs—no bending or reaching required. It’s a thoughtful integration strategy that combines Thermador’s signature performance with functional luxury.
Whether selecting from the Masterpiece® or Professional Collection, the side-by-side installation empowers designers to maximize both form and function. The result is a cohesive, architectural focal point that elevates the entire kitchen while delivering an intuitive, chef-forward cooking experience.
Available on each product page, Hastings’ new Configurator lets designers and homeowners visualize finishes, layouts, and sizing in real time, simplifying customization across the brand’s vanity and storage collections.
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.
