Why hire an NKBA Certified Designer?

Choosing the right design professional is an important decision for your project’s success. By selecting an NKBA-certified designer, you will be working with a professional who:

• Has demonstrated comprehensive knowledge in kitchen and bath design, as well as construction, mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems.
  
• Adheres to a strict code of professional conduct.
  
• Is an expert in the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines & Access Standards, which recognizes the importance of consumer health, safety, and welfare in kitchen and bath design.
  
• Is a member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the kitchen and bath industry’s leading professional organization that provides them with the training and tools needed to succeed.
  
• Is skilled at assessing consumers’ individual needs and wants and creating designs that meet and exceed these requirements.
  
• Remains current on local building codes, safety and environmental regulations and the wealth of new products and equipment on the market.
  

When hiring a professional to work on your dream kitchen or bath, be sure to look for the NKBA certified or member logo.

NKBA Certifications

The premiere hallmark for kitchen and bath professionals, NKBA Certification is based on in-depth testing and extensive industry experience. NKBA certified designers must also meet annual continuing education requirements.
The NKBA certifies kitchen and bath design professionals in various stages of expertise:

AKBD® - Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer

Certified professional with a minimum of 2 years of kitchen/bath industry experience – they are knowledgeable in product selection, space planning, materials, and finishes. An AKBD must meet specific educational requirements, as well as pass a comprehensive academic exam.

CKD® - Certified Kitchen Designers

Have a minimum of 7 years experience designing residential kitchen spaces. They are highly skilled in design, space planning and product selection and have extensive knowledge of building codes, flooring materials, appliances, and mechanical systems. They write specifications and draw plans that are easily interpreted by plumbers, electricians, and installers. A CKD must meet specific educational requirements and pass a comprehensive academic and practical exam.