Gibson, a veteran member and local chapter officer, talks about the importance of a complete NKBA Profile — By Loren Kessell

Longtime members are NKBA’s backbone, and they grow with the association. Adam Gibson, CMKBD, has been a part of the

association since 2003. He’s the owner of Adam Gibson Design in the Indianapolis suburb of Carmel, Ind., and he has served as Vice President of Professional Development, President, and Chapter Representative for the NKBA Indiana State Chapter.

Gibson, a well-known designer who has previously received queries from potential clients conducting a geographical search, has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens Kitchen Makeovers.

“If all designers complete their profiles, the NKBA site will eventually be recognized — by consumers, many whom are not aware of its industry-leading status — as the best location to find top notch industry leaders,” Gibson said.

He took the time to chat with the NKBA about his experiences with the new website.

NKBA: What do you consider to be the best benefits of your membership?

AG: Undoubtedly, the connections I’ve formed with designers and vendors. The continuing education has been useful, not just to “keep my pencil sharp,” but to learn about subjects I’d not known about.

NKBA: How did the NKBA make filling out your profile easy? What are some specific aspects you found to be easy and user-friendly? 

AG: The profile has simple and easy-to-follow instructions. Adding photos can be a bit tedious. Similar to Houzz when uploading photos, it’s incumbent upon the designer to supply materials and colors in order to enable accurate search parameters. One needs to dedicate some time for that. I was able to upload a dozen or so, including their descriptions, in about an hour.

NKBA: How do completed profiles help members receive more media leads? You received leads even before the new website — how do you think this new format enhances that even further?

AG: The new site far exceeds the former for several reasons. It’s the first time NKBA has provided a tool specifically for consumers to find designers based on something other than geography and post-name initials [AKBD, CKBD, CMKBD]. This can be huge. But, only if the majority complete their profiles, and continue to add photos. It will take our entire community to step up and participate. And, photos are featured — a huge draw for consumers. It’s much easier to navigate, making it easier for members and consumers to find their targets.

NKBA: How has your chapter benefited you? Did attending meetings help you make professional connections? What have you learned at chapter presentations?

AG: Not only has the networking been advantageous, but I’ve made friends. Fortunately, we’ve had great Programs people throughout most of my tenure who’ve deployed excellent presentations. And NKBA’s Speaker Presentation Program has wonderful programs that chapters should take advantage of. This is a bit obscure, but since I often present to chapters on designing a healthy home, I was surprised to learn this tidbit at a chapter meeting: Copper kills 99.7% of microbes within one hour of them touching it! A 2011 study reported in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology states that it begins literally within minutes by causing massive membrane damage to microbes. Who knew?

NKBA: What do you love about KBIS?

AG: Many of the seminars are phenomenal. The show floor is eye-popping. I was (un)lucky this past show. I’d just experienced an injury that necessitated a scooter. A speedy one. It was the first time I’d ever seen the entire show, as it’s huge. Apologies to those I frightened as I zoomed past on that sucker.

NKBA: How do you share your knowledge? Have you ever been a VFTI speaker or considered becoming one?

AG: One of my passions is excellent architectural photography. I present to NKBA chapters, ASID, and builders and remodelers, and of course at KBIS, for several years. A healthy indoor environment is another overlooked item of extreme importance. I speak on this regularly as well.

NKBA: How do you mentor the next design generation? Have you created opportunities on the chapter level?

AG: I’m lucky to have such a robust chapter. We attempt to bring in younger people. The new governance is helpful in that we can attract those who don’t yet want a Council position but would like to be groomed for the future. Having a committed designer who teaches kitchen and bath at one of our universities has been a boon, as she encourages students to participate at the chapter level.

NKBA: Why would you encourage other members to complete their NKBA profiles?

AG: Why wouldn’t they? It’s a powerful benefit of membership! The design makes it easy to populate. It’s a great marketing tool and adds a higher level of credibility as we become known as influencers.