KBIS 2026 Announces Brands Selected for Innovation Hour, Hard Hat Media Tour, and Cottages & Gardens Insider Tour
From emerging innovations to editor-led tours, KBIS 2026 elevates the brands defining what’s next in kitchen and bath design
(ORLANDO, FL.) — January 28, 2026 — The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is proud to announce the brands selected to participate in three of its most anticipated editorial and media-driven programs at KBIS 2026: Innovation Hour, the Hard Hat Media Tour, and the Cottages & Gardens (C&G) Insider Tour. Together, these programs spotlight the product innovations, design leadership, and creative thinking shaping the future of the kitchen and bath industry.
Innovation Hour
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM
NEXTStage, South Hall
Innovation Hour is a fast-paced, design-forward “show + tell” session that brings emerging materials, thoughtful product features, and forward-looking design details to the forefront. Designed to highlight the breakthroughs that may otherwise fly under the radar, the program offers attendees a chance to discover what’s next – and vote live for the standout innovation.
Hosted by Sophie Donelson, author and design journalist, Innovation Hour is a stage for creativity, collaboration, and discovery – not a traditional product pitch.
Brands Selected for Innovation Hour 2026:
- BlueStar
- Caesarstone
- CNC Cabinetry
- Daltile
- EMPAVA
- LATICRETE
- LG
- MAGPPIE
- SKS
Hard Hat Media Tour
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 7:30–10:00 AM
(Invite-only; prior to show floor opening)
A long-standing KBIS tradition produced in partnership with Emerald Expositions, the Hard Hat Media Tour offers top media attendees an exclusive first look at the show’s most noteworthy product launches before KBIS officially opens.
This year, brands applied for just eight available spots, underscoring the tour’s prestige and competitive nature. Selected brands will join official title sponsor Artika, breakfast sponsor Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS), and coffee sponsor Empava in welcoming media for intimate, behind-the-scenes previews.
After review by esteemed media judges Quinn Fish, Senior Lifestyle Editor, The Kitchn; Carisha Swanson, Director of Editorial Special Projects, House Beautiful; and Andrea Lillo, Executive Editor, Designers Today, the tour lineup is:
- Artika
- Empava
- SKS
- Buca Interior Solutions
- MORE Surface Care
- Ruvati
- Häfele America
- Fittings Metal Collection
Cottages & Gardens Insider Tour at KBIS 2026
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | Part I
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 | Part II
The annual C&G Insider Tour returns to KBIS with an exclusive, editor-led experience curated by DJ Carey, Editor in Chief of Connecticut Cottages & Gardens and Editorial Director of Cottages & Gardens publications. The interactive tour provides an elite group of designers with VIP access to must-see exhibitor booths, product highlights, private dinners, and curated show moments.
Brands Participating in the 2026 C&G Insider Tour:
- Danver
- Brizo® Kitchen & Bath Company
- EcoDomo®
- Kohler
- Buca Interior Solutions
- Blum
- Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry
- Armac Martin
- CAFÉ Appliances
- Cava Surfaces
- Artistic Tile
- Ruvati
- TRUE Residential
- TOTO USA
Together, Innovation Hour, the Hard Hat Media Tour, and the Cottages & Gardens Insider Tour reflect KBIS’s commitment to elevating design excellence, showcasing innovation, and editorial storytelling – connecting brands, designers, and media at the highest level.
For more information about the Hard Hat Media Tour, please visit the KBIS website here. For more information about Innovation Hour, please visit here. Media interested in attending the tour and/or Innovation Hour can contact KBIS@sharpthink.com to reserve VIP seating and order lunch. For more information on the C&G Insider Tour, please visit here.
About the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), the largest kitchen and bath show in North America. With nearly 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath design and remodeling industry, NKBA has educated and advised the industry since it was founded in 1963. The NKBA’s mission is to inspire and support the kitchen and bath industry through community, events, learning, and professional certifications. For more information, visit www.nkba.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522).
KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.
About Emerald
KBIS is produced by Emerald. Emerald’s talented and experienced team grows our customers’ businesses 365 days a year through connections, content, and commerce. We expand connections that drive new business opportunities, product discovery, and relationships with over 140 annual events, matchmaking, and lead-gen services. We create content to ensure that our customers are on the cutting edge of their industries and are continually developing their skills. And we power commerce through efficient year-round buying and selling. We do all this by seamlessly integrating in-person and digital platforms and channels. Emerald is immersed in the industries we serve and committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. As true partners, we create experiences that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. For more information, please visit: www.emeraldx.com