Understanding Designer Certifications
Many pros have a series of letters after their names. Find out what those designations mean
Comstock
By:
Kristen Hampshire
Confused by the alphabet soup of letters following your designer’s name? Learn what the acronyms for the most common certifications mean.
AKBD (Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer)
- Minimum 2 years industry experience
- At least 2 years of formal design education of 30 hours of professional development from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)
CKD (Certified Kitchen Designer)
- Minimum 7 years kitchen design experience.
- Minimum 4 years of formal design education or 60 hours of NKBA professional development.
CMKBD (Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer)
- More than 17 years of industry experience.
- Has CKD and CBD (Certified Bath Designer) certifications.
- At least 100 hours of NKBA professional development or equivalent formal design education
LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Accredited Professional)
- LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system founded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in 1993.
- Accredited professional (AP) and Green Associate certification is earned by working on LEED-accredited projects and earning Continuing Education hours through the USGBC.
CAPS (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist)
- Certification earned through the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
- Certified specialists are well versed in Universal Design principles and how to implement those in the residential environment.
- Curriculum teaches technical, business management, customer service and critical skills modifying homes for the aging-in-place.
Next Up
Surviving a Kitchen Remodel
Get tips on minimizing stress while your kitchen is under construction
Choosing Kitchen Appliances
Get tips on how to find the right cooktop, fridge and more for your remodel.
16 Steps to Boost Your Home's Value
Hint hint: Updated kitchens, stone veneer exteriors and converted attic bedrooms are money well spent.
The 7 Principles of Universal Design and Why They're Important
Are you remodeling or building a home to accommodate people of differing needs? Universal design can help.
Solar Power 101
Learn the basics of solar power and get tips for incorporating this abundant source of clean energy in your home.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Pro for Your Living Room Remodel
Ask smart questions to find the right professional for your job.
Lining Up Your Project Team
Know which tradespeople and contractors you need to complete the addition to your home
Managing a Bathroom Remodel
Get tips for choosing professionals and hiring contractors for your renovation project
Managing Your Home Addition
Learn how to make the project go smoothly, from keeping a journal to doing daily walk-throughs
9 Tips for Hassle-Free Home Construction
Cindy Stumpo is one of Boston's premier custom-home builders. With more than 20 years' experience in the business, she has plenty of expertise to share.
