NKBA Florida - Certified Member - Gold Standard in the Kitchen and Bath Industry

What is an AKBD, CKD, CBD, CMKBD?

Choosing the right design professional is an important decision for your project’s success. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Certification is the gold standard in the kitchen and bath industry. The NKBA offers three levels of certification; Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer (AKBD), Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD), Certified Bath Designer (CBD), and Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD). These certifications are gained by demonstrating industry knowledge and experience as well as passing proctored examinations.
 
Tracey Scalzo, CMKBD earned her first NKBA certification in 1991. Since that time she has gone on to earn her Master’s Certification, the highest level of certification available. She is the only CMKBD in the Sarasota market.
 
All other Eurotech designers are currently working toward certification.
 
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 and/or Bath Planning Guidelines & Access Standards, which recognize the importance of consumer health, safety and welfare in kitchen and bath design
• 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

All NKBA certified designers must meet specific educational requirements and pass comprehensive academic and practical exams that test candidates on the competencies, knowledge and skills found in the three performance domains of design, construction, and business management, required in the profession of kitchen and bathroom design. . They must also provide third party affidavits of competency and demonstrate fulfillment of their commitment to continuing education and professional development.
 
The NKBA is the premier association for kitchen and bath professionals. Over 45 years after its inception, the Association now has a membership of over 40,000 members from 11 Industry Segments. NKBA Education is provided across North America. More than 200 professional development courses will be held in 2009. In addition, there are over 50 NKBA Accredited/Supported Colleges and Universities.

 
What is the CAPS designation?

The NAHB Remodelers of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in collaboration with the NAHB Research Center, NAHB 50+ Housing Council, and AARP developed the Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) program. This program teaches the strategies and techniques for marketing, designing and building aesthetically enriching barrier-free living environments. Going beyond just universal design, CAPS also addresses the communication and technical needs of older adults.
 
A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) has been trained in:

• The unique needs of the older adult population
• Aging-in-place home modifications
• Common remodeling projects
• Solutions to common barriers

If you’re like the majority of Americans over the age of 45, you want to continue living in a familiar environment throughout your maturing years. According to the AARP, older homeowners overwhelmingly prefer to age in place, which means living in your home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age or ability level.
 
An experienced CAPS designer will do more than work toward minimizing the access and use challenges faced by those with mobility impairments and ambulation aids. CAPS graduates can do far more than specify grab bars in showers. They take into consideration a host of other factors common to the aging process. These may include diminished eyesight, hearing, grip strength and tactile sensations among others, even memory issues. A myriad of technologies and techniques may be employed to address these concerns. Something as simple as special attention paid to material and color selection may help to provide visual and textural cues that help all members of the household to use the space more easily and effectively. Good design results in greater quality of life.
 
Most Americans have either experienced a physically limiting condition or illness or know someone who has. While you may not require any special physical considerations at this time, you may have a friend or relative who does. A CAPS designer will help you increase the comfort, safety, livability and visitability of your home. Additionally, CAPS initiated modifications are a good investment. In an increasingly competitive real estate market, homes designed for aging-in-place are in high demand and enjoy a distinct advantage over their competition.