Last week in Cancún, design leaders from across North America gathered for C.Next Designers 2026—Cosentino’s fifth annual summit dedicated to fostering dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration within the design community. Hosted at the breathtaking Nizuc Resort & Spa, this year’s gathering elevated conversations around experience, innovation, wellbeing, and the evolving role of design through a thoughtfully curated agenda of panels, brand activations, and immersive moments that resonated deeply with attendees.
As 2026 Chair of the Board for the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), it was an honor to participate in this meaningful event, with NKBA serving as a presenting partner and helping strengthen the connections that continue to empower and elevate our profession.
Opening the Conversation: Panels That Mattered
C.Next 2026 featured a compelling lineup of panel discussions with voices shaping design today—exploring everything from emotional intelligence in color to the future of comfort, wellness, and partnership in the home.
Presented by JennAir | One of the most impactful sessions for kitchen and bath leaders, this panel brought together Dr. Ben Hoffman(Whirlpool), Ray Booth (McAlpine), and Stephanie Larsen, moderated by Jill Cohen of LUXE Interiors + Design. The conversation explored how thoughtful design decisions can meaningfully influence physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing—reinforcing the growing importance of wellness-driven spaces.
Presented by Fabuwood | An inspiring and insightful discussion featuring Alexa Hampton alongside color psychology expert Karen Haller, moderated by Steele Marcoux of Veranda. This session unpacked how color impacts mood, perception, and experience, offering designers deeper clarity on using color with intention and confidence.
Presented by Hestan | Mikel Welch and Jason Weingarten, moderated by Kaitlin Petersen of Business of Home, explored how collaboration fuels creativity, strengthens business outcomes, and builds long-term value—an idea that strongly aligns with NKBA’s mission and the spirit of C.Next.
A thought-provoking dialogue between Cindy Allen (Interior Design) and Héctor Esrawe offered perspective on design philosophy, global influence, and the evolution of creative practice—reminding us that design is both deeply personal and universally impactful.
Presented by Four Hands | Led by Matthew Briggs and Adam Dunn of Four Hands alongside Amber Lewis, this session explored how designers and brands can build enduring relevance through authenticity, values, and long-term vision—particularly timely as the industry continues to expand its reach and influence.
Immersive Experiences & Brand Activations
Beyond the panels, C.Next came to life through immersive brand experiences where partners transformed ideas into environments that could be felt, explored, and remembered. Villa activations and curated installations celebrated materiality, craftsmanship, and storytelling in meaningful ways.
Feeney stood out by spotlighting architectural metalwork that elegantly bridges the interior–exterior divide, pairing precision with design flexibility. Kohler and Lutron further enriched the experience, showcasing innovation in performance, lighting, and control systems that enhance comfort, functionality, and atmosphere throughout the home.
Alongside contributions from brands such as Sunbrella, Architectural Grille, and Urban Bonfire, C.Next became a living canvas—inviting touch, discovery, and imagination at every turn.
Media, Meaning & Momentum
A strong media presence amplified the conversations and extended C.Next’s impact well beyond Cancún. Partners including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Interior Design, LUXE Interiors + Design, Business of Home, Modern Luxury, and Hearst helped elevate dialogue, spotlight emerging trends, and share insights shaping the future of design.
This integration of media voices with industry leadership created experiences that were both substantive and shareable—reinforcing design’s power to connect, inspire, and elevate our collective work.
What Makes C.Next Truly Special
C.Next Designers 2026 was about more than programming—it was about community. It created space for seasoned leaders and emerging voices alike to exchange ideas, form new partnerships, and imagine what’s next for the industry.
At a time when wellbeing, experience, and authenticity define both how we work and how we live, C.Next reinforced why gatherings like this matter. They reaffirm the value of design not just as aesthetics, but as a human-centered discipline that elevates everyday life.
Looking Forward
With the momentum from C.Next still vibrant, the design community now turns its focus to KBIS in Orlando—a natural continuation of the conversations, connections, and creativity sparked in Cancún.
C.Next Designers 2026 was a powerful reminder that design is not a destination, but a journey—one made richer through collaboration, curiosity, and shared purpose. Thank you to Cosentino, NKBA, and all partner brands, including JennAir, Fabuwood, Plain & Fancy, Feeney, Hestan, Four Hands, and Lutron, for helping make this year’s event truly exceptional.
