Design + Integration: A Boise Meetup That Got It Right
In a world where design and integration increasingly intersect, few events have captured that convergence quite like the NKBA Big Sky and Mountain States Spring Meeting, held recently in Boise, Idaho. Hosted at the ever-stylish Renegade Hotel, the multi-chapter gathering created a rare — and much-needed — space where residential design-build and tech integration pros came together, not just to network, but to truly connect.
This was more than a local meetup, and Premiere SAV was there to experience it all. It was a clear signal that cross-discipline collaboration is gaining real traction, and it’s happening at the grassroots level.
A Kickoff Rooted in Collaboration
The day began with introductions from Scott Abel of SAV Digital Environments and Premiere SAV, and Josh Stokoe and Rachel Hutchens, CMKBD — leaders of NKBA’s Big Sky and Mountain States chapters. Scott’s role as both NKBA Communications Chair and integrator at a premier AV firm brought immediate relevance for the tech integration community. His presence highlighted exactly why integrators must be part of the broader design conversation — and why events like this matter.
Scott not only helped organize and emcee the event, but also served as a living example of how impactful integrators can be when they step into leadership roles with design-build focused associations like the NKBA.
Smart Homes Meet Smart Design
Deb Webb, EVP of operations and KBIS at NKBA, kicked off the speaker lineup with an insightful look at consumer trends, labor market shifts, and key takeaways from KBIS 2025. Her talk hit home for many in the audience, especially when she emphasized that personalization — not just performance or aesthetics — is what today’s clients demand.
As systems integration pros, this is our cue. Clients aren’t simply buying tech; they’re investing in curated experiences. Deb’s data-driven message was clear: the days of working in silos are over. Designers and tech pros need to partner earlier, strategize together, and think holistically.
David Weinstein, VP of residential sales at Lutron
Lighting, Emotion, and Experience
One of the day’s most impactful sessions came from David Weinstein, VP of residential sales at Lutron, who reminded everyone that lighting is more than functional — it’s emotional. “Great lighting isn’t about brightness,” he said. “It’s about how it makes people feel.”
For integration pros and brands serving the market, this was a moment of alignment. Intelligent lighting systems are now foundational to luxury design, and Weinstein made a compelling case for why pros on both sides — design and integration — must understand the deeper value behind tunable white, circadian rhythm alignment, and how lighting shapes the user experience.
Designing With Intention
Tom Knotts of Adalay Interiors and president of the NKBA Central Florida Chapter presented on cabinetry trends, sustainability, and evolving color palettes. But it was his emphasis on client education that resonated most. “We’re not just here to sell. We’re here to empower,” he shared — a sentiment integration pros and brand should take to heart. In a tech-rich environment, simplifying choices and clearly explaining value is what sets great companies apart.
Tom Knotts of Adalay Interiors and president of the NKBA Central Florida Chapter
Training, Tools, and a Whole Lot of CEUs
Education remained front and center throughout the day. Kelly Buchsbaum’s overview of NKBA’s evolving programming, including the Specialty Badge initiative, showcased how both seasoned professionals and newcomers can level up their skills.
The CEU breakout sessions included deep dives into 3D modeling, wellness, lighting, energy management, universal design, catering to personalized and customized solution mindsets, and more. Technology concealment, power management, and automation were hot topics, with lots of conversation around making tech invisible but impactful — something Residential Systems readers know is both an art and a science.
Community + Impact
Beyond the programming, what really stood out in Boise was the community vibe. From hallway chats to rooftop conversations during the evening reception, the collaborative energy was unmistakable. Integration pros weren’t just welcome — they were essential voices in the room.
As David Weinstein noted, “Collaboration across the residential design and installation stakeholder community is the key to creating the best and most innovative client experiences and elevating our overall value through these kinds of events.” He also highlighted the impact of local integrators like Scott Abel and the SAV and Premiere SAV teams, praising their leadership and ongoing commitment to supporting the design community.
A Glimpse at What’s Possible
So, was it worth the trip to Boise? Without a doubt. For the integrators in the room, it was a chance to deepen ties with design pros, show up as educators and collaborators, and help shape how tech is integrated into the home from concept to completion.
Events like this are a reminder that the most exciting innovation doesn’t always come from a product launch — it sometimes starts with a handshake, a shared idea, or a rooftop conversation about where our industries intersect.
If this meetup is any sign of what’s ahead, the lines between design and tech are no longer just blurring — they’re converging. And that’s a future worth showing up for.
