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Powerhouse Designers and Brands Unite at C.Next Design

C.Next Designer Sign outside Cancun Resort — Photo courtesy of Cosentino

CANCÚN, MEXICO – Cosentino, a global leader in the production of sustainable surfaces for architecture and design, celebrated its fifth annual C.Next Designers Summit back where it all began at the Nizuc Resort & Spa from January 26 to 29, 2026. This milestone event brought together more than 300 influential designers, brand partners and media houses from across North America to engage the senses through thought-provoking panels, immersive experiences and unforgettable parties.

“Cancún provides an incredible backdrop for creativity, but it’s the people and partnerships that truly bring C.Next Designers to life,” said Patty Dominguez, vice president of business development, Cosentino North America. “In this monumental fifth year, coming back to Nizuc allowed us to celebrate how far the industry has come while continuing to foster meaningful lasting connections.”

At this one-of-a-kind event, Carisha Swanson, director of editorial special projects, House Beautiful, served as Master of Ceremonies, bringing together industry leaders -- including top and emerging designers and brands -- during four days of engaging programming with more than a dozen sessions.

In addition, Cosentino expanded relationships with media partners, collaborating with Architectural Digest, Interior Design, Luxe Interiors + Design, Business of Home, Modern Luxury and Hearst. Moreover, these best-in-class media partners hosted four dynamic panels from sponsor brands -- Four Hands, Fabuwood, JennAir, Sunbrella and Hestan -- exploring topics across the design industry, including:

“The Long Game: Building Legacy with Authenticity” with Matthew Briggs, president & CEO, Four Hands; Adam Dunn, senior vice president of design, Four Hands; and Amber Lewis, principal designer, Amber Interior Design; moderated by Joanna Saltz, editorial director, House Beautiful.
“Why That Hue Feels Right: The Psychology of Color in Design” with Alexa Hampton, president & owner, Mark Hampton LLC; and Karen Haller, Colour & Design Psychology Expert and author of The Little Book of Colour; moderated by Steele Marcoux, editor-in-chief, Veranda.
“Comfort Is the New Luxury” with Colin King, founder, Colin King Studio; and Corey Damen Jenkins, principal and CEO, Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates; moderated by Sam Cochran, global features director, Architectural Digest.
“In Good Company: The Power of Partnership” with Mikel Welch, founder, Mikel Welch Designs & TV Host; and Jason Weingarten, CEO and co-owner, The Alinea Group; moderated by Kaitlin Petersen, editor-in-chief, Business of Home.
“The Wellness Effect: Crafting Homes That Enhance Mind, Body, and Spirit” with Dr. Ben Hoffman, corporate medical director, Whirlpool Corporation; Ray Booth, partner, McALPINE; and Stephanie Larsen, founder & creative director, Stephanie Larsen Interior Design; moderated by Jill Cohen, editor-in-chief, LUXE Interiors + Design.
A conversation with Cindy Allen, editor-in-chief, Interior Design, and Héctor Esrawe, founder, Esrawe Studio, presented by Cosentino.

For the first time, Cosentino partnered with brands including Architectural Grille, Feeney, James Martin Vanities, Kohler, Lutron and Urban Bonfire to create immersive, uniquely branded villa experiences. At the heart of the celebration, presenting sponsor NKBA | KBIS hosted a vibrant fiesta, bringing the spirit of design to life in Cancún.