As part of the Kitchen + Bath Show seminar series, KBDi and ACFA are proud to present three days of insightful, industry-focused sessions to support designers, manufacturers and joinery professionals at every stage of the project journey.
From global trend forecasting and practical profitability strategies to buildable joinery, apprenticeships and photography for design professionals, this year’s program brings together respected voices across the industry to explore the ideas, challenges and opportunities shaping kitchens and bathrooms in Australia.
DAY 1 | Thursday, 11 June
Global Trends, Local Reality | Eurocucina Insights for Kitchens & Bathrooms
10:30 am | Mel Gardener
Fresh from Europe’s leading design fairs, Mel Gardener will unpack key ideas emerging from Eurocucina and beyond — translating international inspiration into practical, Australian-ready applications. This session explores materials, finishes, systems and design directions that can be realistically specified, manufactured and delivered locally, with insights into longevity, supply considerations and client appeal.
From Overwhelmed to Optimised: Protecting Your Margins in a Slowing Market
11:15 am | Deb McNee
As rising costs and cautious clients continue to impact the industry, even small inefficiencies can take a serious toll on profitability. In this practical and highly relevant session, Deb McNee (Design Coach Grow) explores where profit is commonly lost — from rework and unclear processes to client indecision — and shares strategies to improve efficiency, strengthen communication and support more profitable project delivery.
Designing for the Lens: Creating Spaces That Photograph Beautifully
2:15 pm | Mark Burrough
Great design doesn’t always translate well on camera — and in an industry driven by portfolios, awards and publications, that matters. Interior and architectural photographer Mark Burrough will explore how design decisions are interpreted through the lens, highlighting the factors that can elevate or diminish a project photograph. From lighting and materiality to styling and preparation, this session offers practical strategies to help designers present their work with maximum clarity and impact.
DAY 2 | Friday, 12 June
Trends with Traction: Kitchens & Bathrooms
10:30 am | Mel Gardener & Lucy Sutherland
Building on the global trends conversation, this session takes a practical approach to implementation. Mel Gardener and Lucy Sutherland will explore emerging design and product directions while addressing lead times, compliance considerations and the realities of specification and delivery in the Australian market.
Beyond the Box: Designing & Delivering Buildable Joinery
11:15 am | Chris Chmielowiec
Custom joinery sits at the intersection of design intent and construction reality. In this session, Chris Chmielowiec shares practical insights into spatial planning, hidden functionality, services coordination and common documentation pitfalls — helping designers better understand what’s possible and design with confidence from concept to completion.
From First Day to Fully Qualified: Making Apprenticeships Work
2:15 pm | Dean Brakell, Chris Chmielowiec & Glen Cannon
This timely panel discussion tackles the real challenges of apprenticeships in today’s market — from recruitment and mentoring to productivity, retention and training costs. Panellists will share practical insights into creating sustainable apprenticeship pathways and developing skilled team members for the future of the industry.
DAY 3 | Saturday, 13 June
From Milan to Main Street: What’s Next for Australian Kitchens & Bathrooms
10:30 am | Lucy Sutherland
Drawing on insights from Europe’s leading design events and real-time consumer data from Temple & Webster, Lucy Sutherland explores the ideas, materials and movements shaping the future of Australian interiors. This session goes beyond surface trends to examine the evolving lifestyles, purchasing habits and colour directions shaping kitchens and bathrooms today — helping attendees identify what’s worth investing in and what will stand the test of time.
KBDi and ACFA are proud to attend the Kitchen + Bath Show as we continue building a stronger, more connected industry together. Following the successful merger of our organisations, our shared vision is centred on supporting professionals throughout the entire project journey — from concept to completion.
We’d love to see you at the show. Visit the Kitchen + Bath Show from 11–13 June and stop by Stand 1246 to meet the team, learn more about our programs and membership opportunities, and chat with us about the future of Australia’s kitchen and bathroom industry.
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