TRIO is proud to announce that our team will be speaking on three panels at the 2026 NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS), one of the most influential events in the residential construction and development industry.
These sessions reflect TRIO’s ongoing commitment to advancing thoughtful, human-centered design—addressing how demographic shifts, AI and technology, economic realities, and evolving lifestyles are shaping the future of housing and the built environment.
Designing & Developing Attainable Housing That Works: Smart Solutions for Lasting Impact
Featuring Christie zumBrunnen, Chief Design Officer, TRIO
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Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
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Time: 2:15–3:15 PM EST
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Location: OCCC – West 308C
TRIO’s Chief Design Officer Christie zumBrunnen will speak alongside Greg Coolidge of Crescent Communities on the critical topic of attainable housing—exploring design and development strategies that balance livability, cost, and long-term performance.
This session will highlight practical, scalable solutions that support attainable housing without sacrificing quality, experience, or community impact. Attendees can expect insights into how thoughtful design, efficient planning, and collaborative development approaches can create housing that truly works for residents and developers alike.
AI-Powered—Real-Time Design
Featuring Lizzie Ager, Innovation & Operations Specialist, TRIO
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Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
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Time: 2:35–3:50 PM EST
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Location: OCCC – West 230 | AI & Tech Studio
This Studio session explores how design teams use practical AI tools to support both creative visualizations and day-to-day operations—improving precision, stakeholder alignment, and workflow efficiency while reducing repetitive admin tasks. Open to Expo + Education pass holders, with seating available first-come, first-served.
Design Trends for Shifting Demographic Groups in 2026
Featuring Carrie Firmine, VP of Business Development – Model Homes, TRIO
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Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026
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Time: 11:00–11:30 AM EST
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Location: OCCC – West 311A | Design Central
TRIO’s VP of Business Development – Model Homes Carrie Firmine will join industry leaders to explore how changing demographic groups are influencing residential design trends in 2026 and beyond.
This panel will examine how factors such as aging populations, multigenerational households, cultural shifts, and lifestyle priorities are redefining what residents expect from their homes and communities. The conversation will focus on how developers, designers, and builders can respond with spaces that are both market-responsive and deeply human-centered.
Panelists include:
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Mollie Carmichael, Principal, Advisory, Zonda
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Michael Phillips, Dream Finders Homes
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Carrie Firmine, VP of Business Development – Model Homes, TRIO
Advancing the Future of the Built Environment
TRIO’s participation in IBS 2026 reflects our commitment to advancing thoughtful, design-led environments that respond to evolving demographics, economic realities, and the lived experience of residents. From future-facing design trends to practical approaches to attainable housing, these conversations align closely with how we partner with clients to create enduring, market-responsive communities.
We look forward to connecting with industry peers, partners, and collaborators in Orlando—and contributing to the dialogue shaping the future of residential and mixed-use development.
