NBS Design Exchange 2026
NBS Design Exchange Sponsors 2026

You’re Invited!

Join NBS, Custer, and Steelcase for an exclusive two-day experience in Grand Rapids!

Kick off Design Exchange the evening before with cocktails and a private tour of the iconic Meyer May House, followed by dinner. 

The following day, join us for Design Exchange, an inspiring day of learning, discovery, and connection featuring industry thought leaders, peer networking, and the latest in workplace design.

Meyer May House

Thursday, November 12, 2026
4:00 PM – 9:45 PM

Agenda:

4:00 PM – 5:15 PM
Check in to Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

5:15 PM – 5:30 PM
Depart for the Meyer May House

5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres,
and tour of the Meyer May House

6:45 PM – 7:00 PM
Depart for dinner

7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Dinner at Bistro Bella Vita

9:30 PM – 9:45 PM
Depart for hotel

Design Exchange

Friday, November 13, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Where:

Steelcase
901 44th St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49508

Agenda:

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Welcome, breakfast, and thought leader discussion with Patricia Kammer

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Morning exploration/experience

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch and thought leader discussion with Meg Bennett & Kamara Sudberry

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Afternoon exploration/experience

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Conclude & depart Steelcase

Meet Our Thought Leaders

Design Exchange Speaker : Patricia Kammer

Patricia Kammer, Workspace Futures Principal Researcher at Steelcase

Patricia is trained as an interior designer and grounded in human-centered design and foresight methodologies, helping organizations understand how emerging forces, including AI, climate change, wellbeing, and demographic change, will shape the future of work. Her work focuses on the intersection of people, technology, and place, guiding leaders as they anticipate change, navigate uncertainty, and create more resilient strategies for the future.
Design Exchange Speaker : Kamara Sudberry

Kamara Sudberry, Global Leader, Inclusive Design at Steelcase

Kamara leads the development and integration of inclusive design through the application of design principles and practices across the business. She leverages her background in the field of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), and her passion for collaboration to create inclusive spatial experiences.

Meg Bennett, Global Design Principal at Steelcase

Meg specializes in workplace and commercial interior design. With over 20 years of experience in commercial architecture, interior design, and contract furniture, she uses human-centered design to shape how people interact with space. She connects research and insights to spatial solutions, leading a team focused on hybrid work, inclusive design, and the future of workplace environments.

9:00 AM – 10:00 aM

The Future of Workplace Tech

Speaker: Patricia Kammer, Workspace Futures Principal Researcher at Steelcase

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Design Exchange Speaker : Patricia Kammer

Patricia Kammer is trained as an interior designer and grounded in human-centered design and foresight methodologies, helping organizations understand how emerging forces, including AI, climate change, wellbeing, and demographic change, will shape the future of work. Her work focuses on the intersection of people, technology, and place, guiding leaders as they anticipate change, navigate uncertainty, and create more resilient strategies for the future.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Inclusive Design

Speakers:
Kamara Sudberry, Global Leader, Inclusive Design at Steelcase
Meg Bennett, Global Design Principal at Steelcase

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Design Exchange Speaker : Kamara Sudberry

Kamara Sudberry leads the development and integration of inclusive design through the application of design principles and practices across the business. She leverages her background in the field of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), and her passion for collaboration to create inclusive spatial experiences.

Meg Bennett specializes in workplace and commercial interior design. With over 20 years of experience in commercial architecture, interior design, and contract furniture, she uses human-centered design to shape how people interact with space. She connects research and insights to spatial solutions, leading a team focused on hybrid work, inclusive design, and the future of workplace environments.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Healthcare and Education Chat

Instructors: Tanya Romanelli and Tracey Gancasz

Finally, we dive into the technical details that elevate great design. Participants will explore key material categories—fabrics, woods, and laminates—while learning about testing standards, sustainability considerations, and helpful COM tips. The session will also focus on developing a discerning eye for quality and craftsmanship, with an emphasis on how construction methods, materials, and warranties impact design decisions. By strengthening their technical understanding, emerging designers will gain the confidence to specify with precision and deliver solutions that balance beauty, performance, and longevity.

Register

RSVP by October 30. Space is limited for this invite-only event. Please secure your spot by filling out the form below.