Meet our finalists: Rising Star of the Year 2026
The kbbreview Retail & Design Awards are the biggest awards in the kitchen and bathroom independent retail industry. Here, we take a look at the finalists for the Rising Star of the Year 2026.
Rising Star of the Year 2026
Sponsored by Blum.
Successful businesses and industries are always looking for fresh, new, creative talent. These rising stars often drive companies to innovate and embrace new practices and technologies and, guided by experienced hands, they can grow into valuable team members or even the next generation of business leaders.
The development of this pool of new, young talent is so important to the future of the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom retail sector and this is why we have the ‘Rising Star’ award.
The winner will be announced at the gala black tie event on Monday, March 2 at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole.
Lorenzo Dell’Aquila, Simon Taylor Furniture
Lorenzo Dell’Aquila grew up immersed in cabinetry, following in the footsteps of his father, a high-end cabinetmaker.
Joining Simon Taylor Furniture in 2021, he progressed from trainee to apprentice, quickly mastering all aspects of the craft – from material handling to final assembly. Lorenzo is now involved in special projects, including a limited-edition 40th-anniversary collection, and has taken on mentorship duties for other apprentices.
His combination of technical skill, dedication, and willingness to take on responsibility marks him as a rising star in the KBB industry.
Listen to our podcast interview with Lorenzo Dell’Aquila below…
Amy Hartland, Ashford Kitchens & Interiors
Amy Hartland’s journey into KBB retail began unexpectedly through a recommendation from a friend-of-a-friend. Seven years on, she is now Ashford Kitchens & Interiors’ showroom manager, having progressed from an assistant role.
Amy oversees the showroom team, supports project coordination, manages customer interactions, and drives marketing initiatives, including the company’s social media presence.
She also helped develop a bespoke lead-chasing system that combines automation with personal follow-ups, keeping the business efficient and customer-focused.
Listen to our podcast interview with Amy Hartland below…
Rachelle Hawes, Et Lorem
Rachelle Hawes joined the KBB industry by chance but quickly established herself as a talented designer at Et Lorem’s Beaconsfield showroom.
Initially assisting the showroom manager, she soon began leading her own projects, demonstrating strong design skills and a commitment to innovation. She champions interactive and AI-enhanced presentations, helping clients experience kitchens in new ways.
Additionally, Rachelle has spearheaded a kitchen recycling initiative, donating unwanted and ex-display products to local schools, strengthening community ties and sustainability within the industry.
Listen to our podcast interview with Rachelle Hawes below…
Max Hitchcox, Point 5 Kitchens
Max Hitchcox discovered his path into kitchen design after exploring architecture, a gap year, and a brief role handling 999 calls.
He joined Point 5 Kitchens just before his 23rd birthday, coincidentally as the company prepared to open its second showroom. Max has since progressed from supporting senior designers with drawings to taking a leading role in the full design process, producing approximately 60% of the company’s design output over the past year.
His work has allowed senior staff to focus on client engagement and finer design details, making him an integral part of the business.
Listen to our podcast interview with Max Hitchcox below…
Mariam Joseph, Simply Bathrooms
Mariam joined Simply Bathrooms as a design assistant after moving to the UK from India, impressed by the company’s attention to detail and quality.
In just one year, she has been promoted twice, now working as a junior designer. She produces detailed bathroom designs, installation briefs, and technical specifications while supporting project managers and installers.
Mariam contributed to the company’s rebrand, helping design the studio’s new website layouts, and is also a finalist in one of the bathroom design categories this year.
Listen to our podcast interview with Mariam Joseph below…
Laila Kamiabi, Haus of Design
Laila Kamiabi joined Haus of Design earlier this year, gaining hands-on experience across all areas of the business to prepare for her future leadership role.
She manages the studio’s social media, develops YouTube content educating consumers about German kitchens, and supports HR, operations, and project management.
Alongside her work, she is completing a degree apprenticeship in chartered management, demonstrating a proactive approach to professional growth and leadership.
Listen to our podcast interview with Laila Kamiabi below…
Jessica Lui, Chisholm Design
Jessica Liu’s journey into kitchen design was a natural progression from her early love of drawing, through studies in graphic design and interior architecture.
Joining Chisholm Design in 2022 as a recent graduate, she quickly became a key member of the team. Known for her meticulous approach and problem-solving skills, Jessica has tackled challenging projects, including kitchens in centuries-old cottages with irregular walls, producing bespoke solutions that enhance rather than conceal the architecture.
Her combination of technical skill, creativity, and enthusiasm for all aspects of design makes her a rising talent in the industry.
Listen to our podcast interview with Jessica Liu below…
Holly Magee, Elysee Kitchens & Interiors
Holly Magee began her career in design after moving from Australia, bringing a degree in interior architecture focused on commercial and hospitality spaces.
Joining Elysee Kitchens & Interiors initially in an administrative role, she quickly progressed to handling full project design, client presentations, quoting, and product ordering.
Holly’s strength lies in her ability to simplify complex design concepts, guiding clients through them with clarity and confidence. Her combination of technical skill, creativity, and people-focused approach has made her a standout talent in the KBB industry.
Listen to our podcast interview with Holly Magee below…
If you want to be at the biggest industry party of the year then book your tickets now as there is a limited capacity. Tickets to the 2026 awards are available via the awards booking page.