Top 10 Kitchen Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for kitchen designers in the job market for several reasons. First, certifications provide proof of knowledge and experience related to designing high-quality kitchens. Kitchen designers with certifications show potential employers that they have the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job properly. Additionally, certifications often demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date on industry trends. Finally, having certifications can give a kitchen designer a competitive edge over other applicants in the job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Kitchen Designers and explains how they can help to enhance a kitchen designer's career.

What are Kitchen Designer Certifications?

Kitchen designer certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of kitchen design. This certification can be obtained through an accredited organization, such as the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). Certification demonstrates to employers, customers, and colleagues that the individual is knowledgeable and experienced in the latest trends and techniques in kitchen design.

Having kitchen designer certification helps an individual stand out from other potential candidates when applying for jobs or tenders. It shows potential employers that they have a comprehensive understanding of kitchen design principles and are able to apply them effectively to create beautiful, functional spaces. In addition, it may also provide access to exclusive job opportunities or additional industry contacts. Furthermore, certified designers often receive discounts on products, services, or other resources related to their profession.

Overall, kitchen designer certification provides individuals with recognition from their peers and employers for their commitment to staying current with industry knowledge while providing them with numerous career-related benefits.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a kitchen designer certification, research the various certifications available to identify which one best fits your needs. Make sure to review the requirements of the specific certification and determine whether or not you meet them. Additionally, look into any continuing education requirements that may be necessary for maintaining the certification.

Related: What does a Kitchen Designer do?

Top 10 Kitchen Designer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Kitchen Designers today.

1. Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD)

Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) is a professional designation awarded by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). This certification recognizes individuals who have met the highest standards of design excellence and professionalism in the kitchen and bath industry.

In order to become certified, applicants must possess at least seven years of full-time experience in kitchen and/or bath design, pass a comprehensive written examination, and submit two successful projects for review by NKBA-certified professionals. The examination covers topics such as space planning, materials selection, product specifications, construction techniques, codes and regulations.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CKD certification process. Applicants must first submit their application materials to the NKBA for review. Once approved, they can then register for the exam which is offered twice a year at designated testing centers across the US. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants must then submit two successful projects for review by NKBA-certified professionals before they can be officially certified as a CKD.

The cost of becoming a Certified Kitchen Designer varies depending on whether you are already an NKBA member or not. For non-members, there is an initial application fee of $250 plus an exam fee of $450 and additional fees for project reviews depending on how many projects you are submitting ($50 per project). For current members of the NKBA, there is only an exam fee of $450 plus additional fees for project reviews if applicable.

2. Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD)

Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD) is a professional certification program for bathroom designers. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of bathroom design. The program was created by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), an international trade organization that promotes excellence in kitchen and bath design.

To become a Certified Bathroom Designer, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as space planning, product selection, lighting, ventilation, plumbing, and safety. The exam also requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of building codes and regulations related to bathroom design.

The exam typically takes about four hours to complete and costs $395 USD. Applicants must be members of the NKBA in order to take the exam; membership fees range from $75-$175 USD depending on the type of membership chosen. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their Certified Bathroom Designer designation along with a certificate suitable for framing.

In addition to passing the exam, Certified Bathroom Designers must renew their certification every two years by completing continuing education courses offered by the NKBA or other approved organizations. Renewal fees are typically around $100 USD per year.

3. National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) Certified Professional Kitchen and Bath Designer (CPKBD)

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) Certified Professional Kitchen and Bath Designer (CPKBD) is a professional certification program that recognizes kitchen and bath designers who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism in the field. It is designed to help distinguish those individuals who possess the skills necessary to design kitchens and baths that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

To become a CPKBD, an individual must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of full-time work experience in kitchen or bath design, completing at least 30 hours of NKBA-approved continuing education courses, passing a comprehensive written exam, and submitting a portfolio of completed projects for review by an NKBA-certified panel.

The entire process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. The cost for the application fee is $225 USD. Additional fees may apply for the continuing education courses and exam fees.

4. American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer (CKBD)

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer (CKBD) is a professional certification program that recognizes interior designers who have demonstrated mastery in kitchen and bath design. This certification is the highest level of recognition for kitchen and bath design professionals.

To become an ASID CKBD, an individual must have at least three years of experience in kitchen and bath design, complete a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education related to kitchen and bath design, pass a comprehensive written examination, and submit documentation verifying their experience. The exam covers topics such as space planning, ergonomics, materials selection, lighting design, mechanical systems, codes and standards, sustainability practices, project management principles, business practices and ethics.

In order to maintain the ASID CKBD credential, individuals must complete at least 18 hours of continuing education every three years. These courses must be approved by ASID or the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA).

The cost for taking the exam is $350 for ASID members ($450 for non-members). There are also additional fees associated with submitting your application materials. The total cost will vary depending on whether you are an ASID member or not.

5. National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Certified Green Professional Kitchen and Bath Designers (CGPDs)

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Certified Green Professional Kitchen and Bath Designers (CGPDs) is a certification program for kitchen and bath designers. It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge in green building principles, practices, and technologies. The certification requires the completion of an online course, which covers topics such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, materials selection, and sustainable design. The course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete.

To become a CGPD, individuals must first join the NAHB as a member. After joining the NAHB, individuals can register for the online course. Once they have completed the course and passed the exam with a score of at least 70%, they will be awarded their CGPD certification.

The cost to take the online course is $195 for members of the NAHB and $245 for non-members.

6. International Institute of Home Staging & Design (IIHSD) Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer

The International Institute of Home Staging & Design (IIHSD) Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of kitchen and bath designers. The certification is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who specialize in designing kitchens and bathrooms.

The program consists of an online course that covers topics such as design principles, materials selection, space planning, cost estimation, project management, and more. The course takes approximately 25 hours to complete. Upon completion of the course, students must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to become certified as an IIHSD Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least three years of experience in the field or completing an accredited design program. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of their experience or education along with a completed application form.

The cost for the IIHSD Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer program varies depending on whether you choose to take the online course or attend one of their live classes. For the online version, the cost is $495 USD plus applicable taxes. For live classes, prices start at $795 USD plus applicable taxes.

7. American Institute of Architects (AIA) Certified Sustainable Building Professional Kitchen and Bath Designers

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Certified Sustainable Building Professional Kitchen and Bath Designers is a certification program that recognizes the knowledge and expertise of kitchen and bath designers who have a comprehensive understanding of sustainable building principles, practices, and technologies. This certification validates the designer’s commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, water conservation, healthy indoor air quality, and overall environmental responsibility in the design of kitchens and bathrooms.

In order to obtain this certification, designers must complete a minimum of 16 hours of AIA approved continuing education courses related to sustainable building principles for kitchen and bath design. The courses must include topics such as green building materials selection, energy efficiency strategies, water conservation techniques, ventilation systems design, waste management practices, indoor air quality considerations, lighting design principles for health and wellness benefits, and more.

The cost for the AIA Certified Sustainable Building Professional Kitchen & Bath Designer Certification is $100 USD plus applicable taxes. Once all required coursework has been completed successfully, applicants must submit an application form along with payment to receive their certification.

Once certified as an AIA Certified Sustainable Building Professional Kitchen & Bath Designer (CSBP-KBD), designers are expected to maintain their certification by completing at least 8 hours of continuing education every two years in order to remain current on best practices in sustainable kitchen & bath design.

8. National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer

The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer (CKBD) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of kitchen and bath designers. This certification is designed to ensure that individuals who design kitchens and baths have the necessary education, experience, and expertise to do so safely and effectively.

It typically takes three years of full-time work experience in kitchen and bath design to qualify for the CKBD exam. During this period, applicants must also complete two college-level courses in interior design or related fields, such as architecture or engineering. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the exam through NCIDQ’s website.

The cost of taking the CKBD exam varies depending on where you live; however, it typically costs between $500-$1,000 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 USD to maintain your certification status.

Overall, becoming a NCIDQ Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer requires dedication and commitment but can be a rewarding experience for those interested in furthering their career in kitchen and bath design.

9. United States Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional in Kitchen and Bath Design

The United States Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional in Kitchen and Bath Design (LEED AP K&BD) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in green building principles and practices, as well as kitchen and bath design. This certification is ideal for professionals who are looking to stay ahead of the curve in the green building industry.

To become a LEED AP K&BD, you must first meet the prerequisites of having at least two years of professional experience in kitchen and bath design, or four years of experience in residential construction or remodeling. You must also have completed a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education related to green building principles.

Once these requirements are met, you can take the LEED AP K&BD exam which consists of 100 multiple choice questions covering topics such as sustainable materials, energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $400. Upon passing the exam with a score of 170 or higher, you will be awarded the LEED AP K&BD certification.

The cost for taking the LEED AP K&BD exam is $400 plus any applicable taxes or fees. This fee covers all study materials needed to prepare for the exam as well as access to an online practice test. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging if you need to take your exam at an approved testing center outside your local area.

10. NKBA CAPS Certification for Aging-in-Place Specialists

NKBA CAPS Certification for Aging-in-Place Specialists is a professional certification program developed by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely design and build living spaces that meet the needs of aging adults. The certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the physical, psychological, and social needs of aging adults, as well as an understanding of universal design principles.

The certification process involves taking an online exam that consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as safety considerations, ergonomics, accessibility, home modifications, technology integration, and more. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in either residential or commercial design or construction.

The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your NKBA CAPS Certification for Aging-in-Place Specialists certificate in approximately four weeks. You can also choose to purchase additional study materials from NKBA to help prepare for the exam.

Overall, obtaining NKBA CAPS Certification for Aging-in-Place Specialists provides professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in designing safe and comfortable living spaces for aging adults.

Do You Really Need a Kitchen Designer Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on the individual. For some people, a kitchen designer certificate might be necessary for their career aspirations and desired job opportunities, while for others it may not be necessary at all.

For those looking to pursue a career in kitchen design, a certificate can be an important credential to have. It can demonstrate that you have gained the knowledge and expertise required to design kitchens in accordance with industry standards and best practices. A certificate can also help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions.

However, if all you want to do is design your own kitchen at home or work on small projects as a hobby, then you likely do not need a formal certification. There are plenty of resources available online that can provide helpful tips and guidance on how to design your own kitchen. You could also look into taking classes on DIY projects or interior design offered by local community colleges or craft stores.

At the end of the day, whether you decide to pursue a kitchen designer certificate will depend on your individual goals and circumstances. If you feel that having a certificate would benefit your career prospects and help you reach your goals faster, then it might be worth investing in one.

Related: Kitchen Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Kitchen Designer Certifications

Q1: What is a kitchen designer certification?

A1: A kitchen designer certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the design and layout of kitchens. It requires knowledge of kitchen design principles, safety regulations, and building codes.

Q2: How do I become certified as a kitchen designer?

A2: To become certified as a kitchen designer, you must complete an accredited program in kitchen design and pass an exam administered by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). You may also need to fulfill other requirements such as completing continuing education courses or having experience in the field.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a kitchen designer?

A3: Becoming certified as a kitchen designer can provide you with recognition from employers, customers, and peers as well as additional job opportunities. It can also give you access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and industry resources.

Q4: How long does it take to become certified?

A4: The length of time it takes to become certified depends on your prior experience and how much time you dedicate to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, you should plan for at least four months of study time before taking the exam.

Q5: Are there any other certifications available for kitchen designers?

A5: Yes, there are several additional certifications available for those looking to further their career in kitchen design. These include Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD), Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer (CMKBD), Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), Certified Living In Place Professional (CLIPP), and NKBA Education Achievement Certificate (EAC).