If you’re a design pro, the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS), Feb 17 – 19 in Orlando, is where you go to sharpen your edge. Think next-level trends, breakthrough products, inspiring demos and the kind of insider intel that helps you design smarter, faster and more profitably. IBS 2026 offers plenty of opportunities to elevate your craft. We’ve rounded up the top ways to make the most of your Builders’ Show experience in this sneak peek at the trends, tools and must-sees that will shape the year in home design.
#1 Stay Ahead with Designer-Focused Education
IBS Education* is packed with sessions tailored specifically for home design pros. Get the scoop on the latest design trends, dive into how AI is reshaping the design process and learn practical ways to streamline your workflow. If you want to work more efficiently while producing standout designs, this is where it happens.
#2 Spot Hot New Products Before Anyone Else
The show floor is a gold mine of the newest products, materials and technologies. Meet the manufacturers behind the innovations, ask the tough questions and get a first look at the tools and solutions changing how homes are built and how they look and live.
#3 Find Your People in Design Central
Design Central is the heartbeat of the design community at IBS. Join informal discussions with experts and peers on everything from elevating kitchens and baths on any budget to profitable design strategies to what buyers are craving in floor plan design. If you want real talk with real pros, this is your place.
#4 Explore the New Product Zone
If you geek out over new materials and emerging trends, don’t miss the New Product Zone. This high-energy area spotlights the latest product releases, often before they even hit the market. It’s your chance to introduce clients to the next big thing before it becomes the next big thing.
#5 Level Up Your Craft in the Hands-On Demo Zones
Design is all about the details, and IBS delivers.
- Craft Techniques Zone: Watch interactive demos on finishes, updates, techniques and the fine-tuned skills that turn “good” into “wow.”
- Construction Performance Zone: See top builders in action and learn how they’re constructing stronger, faster and smarter. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the techniques behind great design execution.
#6 Grow Your Expertise Before the Show Even Starts
Pre-Show NAHB Courses** (Feb 14–16) offer deep-dive education designed to boost your skill set and earn NAHB CEUs. This year’s focus is land development — from getting started and strategic innovation to site planning. If you want an edge before the exhibit hall even opens, this is it.
Bonus: Celebrate the Industry’s Best
The Best in American Living™ Awards***, sponsored by SMEG, are taking place on Feb 18 from 5 – 8 PM. This premier ceremony honors the year’s most outstanding design, remodeling, multifamily and offsite construction projects. It’s a can’t-miss night of inspiration (and serious brag-worthy work).
Don’t Miss Out
IBS 2026 is the event for design pros ready to innovate, connect and level up their business. If you want to stay ahead of the curve and your competition, the Builders’ Show is where you need to be.
Register and get ready to crush it.
*IBS Education requires an Expo+Education registration.
**Pre-show courses require a separate fee and registration from your IBS registration.
***Ticketed event that requires a separate fee from your IBS registration. You can add tickets to your IBS registration.