Did you ever wonder why the designs in your local multi-branch retail store are so desirable and the same at each multi branch location? It is because a display designer works for the manufacturer to ensure that the designs are so appealing that every customer that sees the display wants to buy. Display designers in the kitchen and bath industry develop designs that will best sell their product to the consumer. These designs must demonstrate many of the manufacturers premiere features into a limited amount of space. The designs must be accurate and well documented, so that installers from everywhere can correctly execute installation.

Job description

Receive store layout with dimensions
Research past designs and new product implementation
Review marketing team criteria for implementation of new products
Design cabinet sales display using new products
Prepare detailed drawings of moldings on Auto Cad
Compile list of components in display
Reconfirm list and generate to customer service for disbursement
Field questions pertaining to design

Skills needed

Creativity and esthetic abilities
Effective communication skills/people skills
Advanced knowledge in all aspects of design and construction concepts
Advanced knowledge of kitchen and bathroom design
Advanced Computer Aided Drafting skills
Drawing skills

Required Education

Employers seek individuals that have completed a degree in Interior Design with a specialty in Kitchen/Bath Design. Attending an NKBA Endorsed Program assures employers that you have the knowledge in the specialty area of kitchen and bath. Obtaining certification from the NKBA demonstrates that you have passed a rigorous exam; have knowledge of building codes, construction, mechanical, electrical systems and safety/environmental regulations; and that you can communicate this knowledge correctly through drawings to construction experts. Many colleges across the country offer degrees in the Kitchen/Bath specialty area. Click here for a list of NKBA Endorsed Programs.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) offers NKBA professional development courses to provide students with the knowledge to work within the kitchen and bath specialty area.

The association offers several levels of certification for designers. Click here to learn more about NKBA certification.

Earnings

According to research conducted by Alexandria Technical College in 2002 the average designers in the kitchen and bath wholesale area earn between $25,000 - $49,999 annually with the highest earnings reported at $125,000.

Learn More about an NKBA Student Member's Experience

Sara Olson

Education
Graduated from Alexandria Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Interior Design. Completed kitchen software courses and Kitchen/Bath Studio as part of her course work.

Past Work Experience

Summer internship- Worked for American Woodmark Corporation, Winchester, VA on the "New American Home 2003" project supervised by Connie Edwards, CKD, CBD. Also, gained experience working with multi branch retail stores nationwide on display designs

Current Employment

Design Technician for NKBA member firm American Woodmark Corporation, Winchester, VA.

Sara answers your ?s

What is the best way to find a job in the K&B industry?

"The best advice is to be open to relocation and if you want to work in the K&B field be sure to pay attention in your kitchen/bath software course."

Did you learn much during your internship?

"Yes, it was a large project, and I was fortunate enough to have been involved in all of the steps we took from beginning construction to installing the cabinetry. It was an incredible learning experience."

What gave you an advantage over other candidates for the Design Technician position?

"I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunities I've had. The kitchen and bath classes I took while in school were crucial in the development of my abilities in design as well as my abilities to convey my ideas clearly, through the use of computer programs."

What is your biggest regret as a student?

"Even though I took the 20/20 Kitchen/Bath software class and Kitchen/Bath Studio, I wish I had taken the Advanced Kitchen and Bath course at my school."

What is your next goal?

"I am in the process of studying to take the academic portion of the NKBA certification exam, the Associate Kitchen Bath Designer (AKBD) next May."