The Business of Resilience: Designing Homes That Endure

Everyone’s talking about partnerships, but behind the gloss, what does it really take to build an authentic, profitable relationship with a brand? This session unpacks how to collaborate with companies in ways that grow both your reputation and your bottom line. From sponsorships that raise your visibility to co-created products that carry your name, panelists will share insider strategies on what brands truly look for, how to protect your creative voice, and how to turn collaborations into long-term business growth.

Today’s clients are asking for more storage, more personalization, and more performance across every inch of their home. For kitchen and bath designers, that means opportunity. This session explores how designers are extending their expertise beyond the kitchen into high-functioning, lifestyle-driven spaces like laundry lounges, mudrooms, wellness areas, butler’s pantries, home bars, pet wash stations, and more. Learn how to approach whole-home projects with a cohesive design philosophy, specify for functionality and flow, and turn niche spaces into major revenue streams.

As fires, floods, and hurricanes dominate headlines, homeowners and developers are increasingly demanding homes that can withstand the unexpected. No longer just a technical consideration in certain geographies, this session explores how extreme weather events are shaping client expectations, insurance requirements, and long-term property value. Panelists will share insights on how firms can integrate resilient design into their offerings, communicate its value to clients, and stay ahead of shifting codes and consumer priorities.