Last week during KBIS, we had the chance to sit down at the KBIS Podcast Studio (sponsored by AjMadison) with the two 2025 KBIS DesignBites winners. This was the 10th anniversary edition of the annual ultimate product showdown, with top brands highlighting the latest product innovations in the kitchen and bath marketplace.
DesignBites was hosted by “The Dancing Carpenter” Darren Keefe, on the NEXTStage. The 11 original brands included BlueStar, Blum, Brondell, Daltile, Empava, EMTEK, LG Electronics, Midea, Moen, Potty Sniffer by JEMSMART and Signature Kitchen Suite.
The Brand with the Biggest Bite
The “Brand with the Biggest Bite” went to BlueStar’s 48-inch Induction Range, which features patent-pending power level indicator lights that serve as a visual cue, just as a flame dows for gas ranges. The dynamic light bars grow in size depending on the heat and were designed to help legacy gas users who are needing help with the transition to induction.
Ann Muth, BlueStar VP of marketing, said designers are also learning about this cooking method so they can educate their clients, and these red lights are helpful in explaining how induction works. The new Induction Range also features a matte finish, which minimizes fingerprints, scratches, stains and reflections – and it feels good to the touch.
Muth spoke about new innovations with the brand’s drop-in cooktop, so tune into the podcast for that information coming down the pike.
The People’s Pick Winner
The “People’s Pick” winner was Potty Sniffer by JEMSMART is a toilet odor ventilation system that converts any toilet into an odorless unit. It actually eliminates odors before they get into the room via an air pump and tubing that goes right out the wall via a small opening. Potty Sniffer is scalable in that it can be used for one toilet or as a whole-home system.
Listen to the podcast to see what’s next for these innovative brands!
