This article was written by Jason McGraw, Group Vice President and Show Director at Emerald, who oversees KBIS, CEDIA Expo, and Commercial Integrator Expo. With more than 35 years of experience in the trade show industry, he brings a unique perspective on the design, innovation, and impact shaping today’s show floor.
The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) once again set the stage for design excellence with the 2026 Best Booth Awards, an annual program recognizing exhibitors whose creativity, craftsmanship, and product storytelling elevated the show experience. The program evaluates booths across design aesthetics, visual impact, innovation, product presentation, functionality, and even community impact—rewarding exhibitors who push the boundaries of immersive, purpose‑driven exhibit design.
With 600+ exhibitors participating at KBIS 2026 in Orlando, competition was fierce as brands transformed the Orange County Convention Center with warm saturated hues, organic materials, tech‑forward interaction, and dramatic surfacing moments reflecting emerging industry trends.
A distinguished three‑member jury of NKBA member kitchen and bath designers—Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, CLIPP, CACC (Timeless Kitchen Design), Elizabeth P. Lord-Levitt, CMKBD, MSRECM, CLIPP (Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design), and Veronica Gordon-Brown (Klassik Designs Inc.) —evaluated the entries onsite, noting that this year’s finalists delivered multisensory experiences and engineering feats that engaged attendees on every level.
2026 Best Booth Award Winners & Finalists
Best in Show – Kohler
Kohler impressed the jury with a commanding presence that blended architectural drama with immersive plumbing showcases, earning both Best in Show and Best Plumbing Booth for its cohesive, high‑impact brand environment.
Grand Booth – Daltile
Daltile’s expansive exhibit stood out for innovative surfacing applications and bold material storytelling, demonstrating leadership in large‑format design.
Large Booth – Fabuwood
Fabuwood delivered an elevated cabinetry experience with an engaging, product‑rich layout showcasing modern finishes and craftsmanship.
Medium Booth – Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry
Honored for both Best Cabinetry booth and size category, their display combined artisanal cabinetry with a clean, inviting design aesthetic.
Small Booth – IKONNI
IKONNI maximized its footprint with a sleek, detail‑driven installation highlighting contemporary surfaces and textures.
Additional category winners included Cava Surfaces (Best New Exhibitor), Cosentino (Best Surfaces), GE Appliances (Best Appliance), and Plank Hardware (Best Hardware, Lighting & Accessories) — each celebrated for standout product presentation and compelling booth narratives.
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