Specifying Natural Stone with Confidence: An NKBA & NSI Panel

How do you stay ahead of your competition when trends are ever-changing? What about in the markets that may be slower to adopt these trends? Drawing on inspiration from the recent Global Trend Report by Cosentino, this session will explore how to embrace the individuality of regional markets while tapping into global trends that will have a strong influence on home design in 2026 and beyond. Gain actionable insights into what you can do now to empower a client to integrate different trending materials, colors, and textures to fit their design vision, along with leveraging tools and resources in your market to ensure your designs stay innovative. 

In today’s competitive design market, telling a compelling story can be the difference between winning a client, or losing them to a competitor. This session explores how designers can harness the power of storytelling to communicate their vision in a way that resonates emotionally and practically with clients.

Mariana De La Garza will share her approach to crafting compelling design narratives across presentations, mood boards, and social media. Attendees will learn to develop stories that reflect their clients’ values, clarify design intent, and strengthen client relationships through more relatable, memorable communication.

Whether you’re pitching a remodel or presenting a new build, this session offers actionable strategies to help you transform technical details into engaging stories that inspire and persuade. 

Design, Aging in Place (Comfort), and Autism.  What do they have in common?  

The answer lies in their emphasis on perspective and the unique needs of individuals. This presentation aims to highlight the critical importance of thoughtful design that accommodates those who are aging and wish to remain in their homes, as well as individuals with autism.
We will specifically delve into the design of essential areas in a home, including the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom—the spaces where daily life unfolds. You will learn how to create environments that are not only functional but also enhance comfort, safety, and accessibility for these populations.