RESTON, VA. — The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) has recognized Natalia Pierce, CMKBD, from Detail by Design studio in Ontario, Canada as its first-place winner in the association’s first KCMA Design Awards competition. 

After judges reviewed all the entries in the first KCMA Design Awards program for 2024, Pierce was selected based on the total number of points for her project. The announcement was made by KCMA CEO Betsy Natz.

“The judges had a tough job in our first program because the designs, frankly, were all terrific,” said Natz. “As a first for KCMA, we’re extremely pleased with the quality of our program, and Natalia’s well-earned first place shows the strength of her design.”

Entries were judged by a panel of six all-star judges on seven separate categories: Innovation, Aesthetics, Functionality, Durability, Utility, Emotional Quotient (EQ) and an Overall Rating.

The KCMA Design Award Program was the association’s way of providing a great opportunity for kitchen and bath design firms to showcase their best designs, gain recognition among their peers, and build exposure for their work and firm. 

“The field of 21 entries ... represented the crème de la crème of designers,” Natz added, “and I’m sure as awareness builds about our new program – which involves KCMA member cabinet companies as part of the criteria for entry – it will only expand in bringing together great designs. 

“It’s a way to spark community engagement by shining a spotlight on innovation, quality, and originality. We’re very pleased with the results.”

Entries for the KCMA 2024 Design Awards program were submitted through April 1. Natalia, by earning First Award for Best Kitchen Design, will receive a trip to the 2024 KCMA Spring Leadership Conference to accept her award which includes airfare, accommodations, and a $1,000 stipend for expenses. She will also be featured in a full-page advertisement in Kitchen & Bath Design News and recognized on the Woodworking Network and KCMA websites. Her design included cabinets manufactured by KCMA member Cuisine Ideale.

The Second Award for 2nd Best Kitchen design received a $500 cash award. That spot went to Cassidy Jones, from Slate Creek Builders who used cabinets manufactured by KCMA member Dura Supreme Cabinetry.

Third Place was awarded to Michael Horton from Horton Harper Architects, who used cabinets manufactured by KCMA member Corsi Group, Inc.

“I’d like to personally thank all the judges and participants for making our first Awards contest a success,” Natz added. “We’re excited about what we’re happy to call our Second Annual KCMA Design Awards program for 2025!”