Judges
Meet the 2027 KCMA Design Awards Judges
The 2027 KCMA Design Awards bring together a distinguished panel of design professionals with expertise in kitchen and bath design, residential interiors, sustainability, accessibility, and innovative design solutions.
These accomplished industry leaders will lend their experience, creativity, and professional insight to evaluating this year’s entries, recognizing exceptional design and the creative use of cabinetry in residential spaces.
Heather Abrames
Heather Abrames is the Design Manager at RIKB Design Build, where she oversees the design process from initial concepts through final specifications and plans. Working closely with design consultants, associates, and technical designers, she helps ensure that every detail contributes to a cohesive and successful design outcome.
A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Heather holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Certificate in Interior Design. Before joining RIKB in 2018, she gained valuable experience at a large architectural firm and a residential design firm, developing a well-rounded perspective on design, collaboration, and project execution.
Heather Kirk
Heather Kirk is the founder and Principal Designer of Kirk Riley Design, an award-winning residential interior design studio based in Seattle, Washington. Established in 2004, the firm specializes in colorful, highly personalized renovations of vintage homes, celebrating architectural character and unexpected material combinations.
A self-proclaimed “design nerd,” Heather has a particular passion for older homes and the thoughtful details that make each space unique. Her work has been featured in regional and national publications, television, and online media. She served as President of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Washington State Chapter from 2025 to 2026 and is a member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA).
Meredith Weiss
Meredith Weiss is the founder of Merri Interiors, Inc., a boutique kitchen and bath design firm known for creating distinctive, highly personalized spaces that balance beauty and functionality. With more than 22 years of industry experience, Meredith has built a successful practice centered on thoughtful design and lasting client relationships.
Starting her business from her Long Island dining room table, Meredith transformed her entrepreneurial vision into a respected design firm. Her work has been published more than two dozen times, and she serves on the editorial advisory board of KBB magazine. In 2018, she was recognized as one of the kitchen and bath industry’s “50 Top Innovators,” reflecting her creativity, expertise, and contributions to the profession.
Molly Erin McCabe, AKBD, CLIPP, CGP, CAPS
Molly Erin McCabe is an award-winning interior designer and founder of McCabe By Design LLC, a full-service interior design firm specializing in accessible and sustainable design for residential remodeling and new construction.
With 24 years of design and construction experience, Molly brings a strong commitment to creating spaces that are functional, inclusive, and environmentally responsible. A published author and frequent presenter, she shares her expertise on aging in place, sustainability, design, and construction. She has contributed her time and talents to numerous professional and nonprofit organizations, including the National Kitchen & Bath Association, National Association of Home Builders, Professional Women in Building, Northwest EcoBuilding Guild, and Sustainable Bainbridge.
Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, CLIPP, CACC
Paula Kennedy is an award-winning interior designer and founder of Timeless Kitchen Design L.L.C., bringing 28 years of experience in kitchen and bath design and whole-home solutions. Her credentials include Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer, Certified Living in Place Professional, and Certified Architectural Color Consultant.
An NKBA Subject Matter Expert, K+BB Magazine Advisory Council member, and KBDN contributor, Paula is actively involved in speaking, teaching, curriculum development, coaching, and writing. Her work explores creativity, holistic wellness, inclusive and sensory-conscious design, and the evolving role of residential designers. Passionate about education and innovation, she inspires fellow professionals to embrace new ideas and create more thoughtful, human-centered living environments.