KBIS 2024 Panel Discussions

From livable luxury to the resurgence of colorful spaces, here's a look back at our inspiring and informative panel discussions. We extend a huge thank you to our distinguished guests and panelists.

Enduring Elegance: Livable Luxury Design

Celebrity designer Brigette Romanek joined Sophie Donelson to discuss the secrets behind creating glamorous yet functional spaces.

 

"Luxury was just a space that felt precious and it was a little uncomfortable....and now it's more so about luxury feeling like what is important to the individual." – Brigette Romanek

SPEAKERS: Brigette Romanek, Principal of Romanek Design Studio; and Sophie Donelson, Design Expert and Author

Repurposed Beauty: A Celebration of Sustainability

Informed by her global mindset, internationally acclaimed designer Nada Debs discussed the transformation of production waste into stunning tile with Laura Kohler and Bonnie Choruby.

 

"What people are usually attracted to with craft is the energy behind the craft...so I feel that these tiles, they have some emotional energy that you can feel...the layering, the depth, all of that is really part of the whole process." – Nada Debs

SPEAKERS: Nada Debs, Artist; Laura Kohler, Kohler Co. Chief Sustainable Living Officer; and Bonnie Choruby, Kohler Co. President of Luxury and Wellness Brands

Timeless Expression: A Conversation with Shea McGee

Sophie Donelson hosted Shea McGee, founder and chief creative officer of Studio McGee, to dig into Shea’s unique perspective on interior style, product design, and her Kohler Company collaboration.

 

"I knew very early on that I wanted to look to heritage pieces and Kohler has this incredible history that we were able to look to and gather details and then think about how they're going to work for today." – Shea McGee

SPEAKERS: Shea McGee, Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Studio McGee; and Sophie Donelson Design Expert and Author

A World of Green: Showcasing Enduring Shades

Sophie Donelson brought together leading design talents Sheila Bridges, Dabito, Monica Santayana, and Ronald Alvarez for a dialogue on the resurgence and staying power of green hues across design, interiors, and fashion.

 

"When I approach designing a space, I always tell my clients, 'Color is memory.' It reminds you of people, places, and things. You're attaching intangible experiences to tangible things like a bathtub or a sink. It will grow and it becomes timeless." – Dabito

SPEAKERS: Sheila Bridges, Interior Designer; Dabito, Designer and Author; Monica Santayana and Ronald Alvarez, Cofounders of Moniomi Design; and Sophie Donelson, Design Expert and Author