Displays. Product launches. Music. Lights. Classes. People. Inspiration. Motivation. Sunshine. And even Puppies!

That is just a taste of the excitement of this year’s Design and Construction Week at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida last week. Design and Construction Week combines the National Association of Home Builders’ International Builders Show (IBS) with the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). Industry vendors of all types bring products, information, and set up booths in the Expo areas, and NAHB and NKBA host classes, seminars, award ceremonies, and events to celebrate and share industry knowledge.

I walked through the entire Expo area (some sections several times) to see the new fixtures, learn about companies new to me, and to visit the companies I’ve been specifying and sourcing from for years. All were inspirational; ideas have been dancing around in my head since the show ended.

I also attended several classes in the Voices from the Industry series, offering insight into business development, fostering partnerships between designers and contractors, marketing, AI, tips for entrepreneurs, and sustainable design.

You may be wondering where the puppies fit in … the event included a Puppy Park, where a local shelter brought in a litter of 6 puppies for show attendees to visit, play with, and pet. All of the puppies will be available for adoption in the next few weeks. Perhaps one found its forever home with a local designer or builder! The last photo in the gallery above is of me and Stormy, one of the sweet pups.

All in all, it was an invaluable experience. I look forward to fostering the connections I made, implementing the ideas and knowledge I gained, and carrying forward the momentum I absorbed. Thank you, Design and Construction Week! Cheers!