Being a Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) requires the individual to have comprehensive training in kitchen design principles and kitchen planning techniques. For some, this certification can be obtained with an accreditation from the National Kitchen && Bath Association (NKBA). Certified Kitchen Designers must demonstrate a mastery of everything from kitchen design layout and ergonomics, to ventilation and cabinet construction. There are various programs available for CKDs and potential CKDs, ranging from online courses and seminars to self-directed study and extensive lab tests. Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) |
A Certified Bath Designer (CBD) is similar to a CKD except that instead of designing kitchens, CBDs are qualified to design bathrooms. As such, they need to be just as familiar with bathroom design principles and the relevant codes and regulations. A certificate from the NKBA can also be achieved by aspiring CBDs. Programs can be found through a variety of online outlets, universities, and trade school programs. There is a lot more to running a successful bath design project than simply putting walls together, so anyone interested in becoming a CBD should take time to explore the vast range of skills required for the job. Certified Bath Designer (CBD) |
The Certified Living In Place Professional (CLIPP) designation is another option for bathroom and kitchen designers. It is specifically designed to enable professionals to help design and implement projects focused on older adult independent living. This certification is great for designers who are working on projects in assisted living facilities or for those that deal with clients with disabilities. Professionals must have a minimum of 125 hours of documented experience in the kitchen/bathroom industry and prove a mastery of four core competencies - knowledge, design, client education and communication, and Living-in-Place Services Essentials. Certified Living In Place Professional (CLIPP) |
The Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) qualification is offered by the National Kitchen && Bath Association (NKBA) and is an advanced level of certification. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have a minimum of 7 years of experience in the kitchen and bath design industry and be an existing NKBA member. In addition to this, they must also show creativity and inventiveness in their design work, have a continuing commitment to staying up to date on industry trends, and above all, provide unsurpassed client satisfaction. They must also pass an exam, consisting of both written and practical components. Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) |
The Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) certification is for designers that work on, or are planning on working on, accessibility/ aging-in-place projects. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the needs of senior citizens and those with disabilities, with a focus on specialized design elements that will make living in their home safe and comfortable. In order to attain the CAPS certification, applicants must be approved by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and have an appropriate background in the construction field. They must also have a fundamental awareness of universal design principles, and pass a number of tests. Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) |
The Certified Green Professional (CGP) accreditation is an award given to design professionals who understand the importance of using sustainable practices in design projects. To be eligible for a CGP designation, the applicant must complete a 4-day CGP course, have a minimum of four years experience in the green building and sustainability fields and have documented green building projects to show proficiency. This certification gives individuals a better understanding of the impact that green building principles and practices can have on their client’s projects. Certified Green Professional (CGP) |
A Certified Residential Interior Designer (CRID) is a certification that is offered by the American Society of Interior Designers. To be eligible, the applicant must have received a degree in interior design, have 5 years of experience and have passed the NCIDQ exam. CRID certifications demonstrate that the designers have the necessary knowledge and experience to resonate with clients and offer a range of professional services to ensure customer satisfaction and the highest levels of success. Certified Residential Interior Designer (CRID) |
The Certified Interior Decorator (CID) designation is offered for designers who have the knowledge, creativity and technical know-how to create aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. CID certifications typically require individuals to complete a minimum of 300 hours of education in interior decorating and design. Once a designer has completed the required hours, they must pass the CIDA exam to prove their proficiency and expertise. Certified Interior Decorator (CID) |
Another certification offered in the kitchen and bath design industry is the Certified Interior Redesigner (CIR) designation. CIR is an international certification for individuals that specialize in working with the existing furniture, fixtures, and accessories to create a new and improved living space. Redesigners must have a minimum of 160 hours of documented experience in this type of work and unless a pre-existing CIR designation is already held, applicants must take an online examination and submit evidence of their design projects. Certified Interior Redesigner (CIR) |
Ultimately, the best and most comprehensive certification for a kitchen and bath designer is the Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) credential from the National Kitchen && Bath Association (NKBA). This certification is recognized worldwide and is often seen as the most prestigious qualification for a professional kitchen and bath designer. The CMKBD credential requires designers to have a minimum of seven years of professional experience, a commitment to staying up to date on industry trends, and a mastery of a comprehensive range of kitchen and bath design skills. Moreover, candidates must successfully pass an exam that covers both written and practical components.Primary Certified Bath and Kitchen Design Certification