Celebrating Culinary Innovation in Kitchen Design
The world of kitchen design is constantly evolving, and the 2024-2025 Kitchen Design Contest presented by Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove is a testament to that innovation. Recently, the companies announced 43 finalists and one student winner who will be celebrated for their exceptional designs during a gala event. This year, the competition attracted significant attention, with over 1,500 entries coming from 10 different countries and 42 states in the U.S., marking a substantial increase in first-time participants, contributing to over 50% of the total submissions.
Jim Bakke, President and CEO of Sub-Zero Group, expressed pride in the caliber of creativity on display, remarking, "The Kitchen Design Contest continues to draw remarkable talent from across the globe. Their creativity is inspiring communities and shaping the future of the kitchen." The entries reflected an impressive range of styles, with transitional kitchens notably dominating the aesthetic choices.
A Distinguished Panel of Judges
Selecting the finalists required the expertise of a panel of seven esteemed judges, all of whom have previously been celebrated for their contributions to kitchen design. The judging panel for the 2024-2025 contest includes several notable figures such as Sandra Agurto from Cabinetry Creations in Orlando, and Martin de Sousa from Designström in Canada. Judge Sandra Agurto shared her thoughts, stating, "The Kitchen Design Contest entries offered a compelling view into the evolving artistry of kitchen design - from bold contemporary visions to timeless transitional layouts." The wide variety of designs showcased illustrates not just creativity but also the strength of the design community today.
Celebration at the Winners' Summit and Gala
All finalists, along with the student winner, will enjoy a trip for two to the Winners' Summit and Gala, which is scheduled to take place from October 25 to 28, 2026, at the prestigious Arizona Biltmore. At this summit, design professionals have the unique opportunity to not only celebrate their achievements but to network and exchange ideas with fellow innovators. During the accompanying gala, the 13 global winners will be announced and honored across multiple categories, including first, second, and third places in contemporary, transitional, and traditional design, as well as special recognitions for first-time entrants and best small space kitchens.
Broad Eligibility and Submission Criteria
The contest eligibility parameters were inclusive, requiring all design and construction to be completed within the stipulated timeframe from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025. This inclusive approach allowed a diverse range of kitchen designs to compete, with specific criteria set out for both indoor and outdoor submissions.
The Kitchen Design Contest, initiated in 1993, is recognized as an esteemed accolade within the residential home design industry, celebrating various design professionals, including architects, builders, and landscape designers. Over the years, it has acknowledged more than 15,000 designs and promoted nearly 800 individuals within the field, reinforcing its importance in the community. For more details about the contest and to keep up with its future developments, interested individuals can visit
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Kitchen Design Contest.
About Sub-Zero Group, Inc.
Sub-Zero Group, Inc. stands as a beacon of excellence in the luxury kitchen appliance market. With its headquarters situated in Madison, Wisconsin, the company has maintained standards of technological advancement and design excellence for over 80 years. As pioneers in dual refrigeration technology, Sub-Zero has remained steadfast in its commitment to quality, consistent customer service, and innovation. The integration of Wolf's premium cooking products in 2000 further solidified its position, while the introduction of Cove in 2018 expanded their offerings to encompass dishwashing solutions. With design at the forefront of its mission, Sub-Zero continues to be trusted in the world’s most luxurious homes, exemplifying the intersection of functionality and aesthetics in kitchen design.