Saturday, May 28, 2016

The Galvanized Metal Tub



Q.  I want to use a metal tub in our mudroom but my husband doesn't.  He likes the look but says it isn't practical and will eventually leak.  I think he just doesn't want to do the work.  Any insight?
- Janice

A.  Interior design is all about being creative yet function is equally important. In this case, using a metal washtub as a sink in the mudroom or laundry is a wonderful idea. Actually, galvanized metal buckets were used as far back as the early 19th century replacing buckets made of wood and leather.  (source)

For those of you who don't know what galvanization means, it is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to prevent rusting. Not only is galvanized metal durable, but it will also add character to your space. And the best part is that it's inexpensive!  

There are numerous ways you could design with a metal tub. There are no strict rules. Try retrofitting the tub on a countertop or support a metal bucket on sturdy legs with wall mount plumbing.  I would only advise that you hire a licensed plumber for the installation. This will offer a better guarantee against the leaks your husband is concerned about.

I applaud your desire to think out of the box and use objects in new and unusual ways.
- Danielle


Industrial Bathroom by Carmel Architects & Building Designers Studio Carver Architects, Inc.
image via






Tuesday, January 26, 2016

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Danielle Burger, AKBD, named 2016 NKBA U Professional of the Year

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ (JANUARY 25, 2016) — NKBA University, a leader in continuing education and professional development for professionals in the design, building/remodeling and architecture industries, announces that Chicago-based designer, Danielle Burger, AKBD, won NKBA U Professional of the Year. The four-month contest culminated live at KBIS 2016, where Burger and three other Finalists took to the NKBA Center Stage before a panel of judges and full audience of KBIS attendees to share the importance of professional development, and how NKBA University has contributed to their growth and success.
“Throughout the contest and in the Finals at KBIS, Danielle has demonstrated how NKBA University’s Focus on the Customer Learning Path fueled her growth, and how continuing education has not only shaped her career goals but helped her to fulfill her clients’ dreams as well,” says National Kitchen & Bath Association Director of Learning Nancy Barnes. “Continuing education is deeply woven into the fabric of NKBA and this contest. We’re thrilled to celebrate Danielle and the commitment that she, our finalists’ and NKBA U embody.”
In the spirit of continuing education, the following prizes have been awarded:
  • Grand Prize Winner Danielle Burger, AKBD, received an all-expenses-paid trip for two from Platinum Sponsor Kohler Co. to tour its global headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Kohler, Wis. and a $500 gift card.
  • Each of the remaining finalists, Alena Capra, CKD, CBDPatricia Davis Brown, CKD, CBD, ASID, NCIDQ; and Matt Plaskoff received one all-expenses-paid trip to visit the headquarters and manufacturing facilities of one of the contest’s Gold Sponsors, Franke, Rev-A-Shelf and DuPont.
“While I had the passion and perseverance to start my own business two years ago, I lacked direction,” Burger says. “Continuing my education through NKBA University and applying what I had learned in real life situations enabled me to take my business to the next level. I am currently pursuing my CKD and CBD through NKBA and am honored to be named the 2016 NKBA U Professional of the Year.”
 NKBA U Professional of the Year Runners-up
PatriciaPatricia Davis Brown,
CKD, CBD, ASID, NCIDQPatricia Davis Brown Designs, LLC
Vero Beach, FL
ALENACAPAlena Capra, CKD, CBD
Alena Capra Designs
Fort Lauderdale, FL
matt4Matt Plaskoff
Plaskoff Construction One Week Bath
Van Nuys, CA 
Join the Conversation
Follow the latest news for the NKBA U Professional of the Year Award on Facebook and Twitter with #NKBAUpro or visit the NKBA U Professional of the Year Website.
About NKBA University
NKBA University (NKBA U), part of the National Kitchen & Bath Association, is a leader in continuing education and professional development for the kitchen and bath industry. NKBA U provides an innovative approach through eight different competency areas created for industry professionals, from novices to veterans, looking to further develop their design and business skills. Each path provides an individualized, step-by-step approach through innovative, virtual instructor-led training and on-demand webinars available 24/7—all led online by seasoned industry veterans.
About the National Kitchen & Bath Association
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is a not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS®). With nearly 60,000 members, the NKBA has educated and led the kitchen and bath industry since the association’s founding in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to enhance member success and excellence, promote professionalism and ethical business practices, and provide leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath industry worldwide. For more information, visit the NKBA Press Room or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522).
KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.