This episode’s dropping in June—and if you’re listening the day, week, or even month it’s released, well, you already know that. I’ve been thinking about adding these time stamps to each episode moving forward. It just helps frame the conversation, especially considering how fast things are changing.

I just got back from a swing through California—starting up in the Bay Area and making my way down through Pasadena and LA. I met with some brilliant creatives and brand leaders to talk shop about the market, the mood, and where things stand right now.

And if there’s one thing we can all count on these days, it’s the unpredictability of… well, everything. Between extreme weather events, climate challenges, and an ever-shifting political landscape—again, not pointing fingers here—just acknowledging how these forces are impacting the shelter space in very real ways.

So, moving forward, expect more context in these intros, and more conversations focused on market dynamics—specification, supply chain challenges, and how brands are staying sharp with costs, design, and materials.

Today’s guest is Alexander Dornbracht, Vice President and General Manager of Kallista and Robern, both under the Kohler umbrella. Alex literally grew up in this industry—his family business was in the same space—so he knows it inside and out. And he’s here to give us an unfiltered look at what’s really happening out there.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

 – Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

A big thank you to Alexander Dornbracht—great catching up, and I really appreciate the insight. And, of course, thank you to our amazing partners: TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. These are incredible companies and true friends of the trade. Please keep them in mind for your next project.

Thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. If you haven’t subscribed yet, go ahead and hit that button so you get each new episode delivered straight to your feed.

I always love hearing from you, so keep those messages coming—email me at convo by design at outlook dot com and follow along on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign (with an “X”).

Until next week—thank you for spending this time with me. Be well, stay focused, and now that chaos has really settled in… do your best to rise above it.

—CXD