In the world of interior design, the kitchen has long outgrown its reputation as a mere utility room. Today, it is the undisputed emotional and functional heart of the modern home. No one understands this evolution better than Félix Bernad, the newly appointed president of the Kitchen Furniture Association (AMC) and the driving force behind the upcoming Espacio Cocina SICI.
With over three decades of industry expertise at the helm of Grupo Ártico, Bernad isn’t just stepping into a leadership role; he is spearheading a movement. In a recent sit-down, he shared his vision for a sector that is ready to transcend its traditional boundaries.
A Leap in Scale and Quality
“We are going to take a leap in scale, quality, and business,” Bernad asserts. His arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the Spanish kitchen industry. Taking the baton from Juan Luis Salvador, Bernad is focused on a dual challenge: maintaining the sector’s steady growth while catapulting Espacio Cocina SICI—the biennial benchmark trade fair—onto a truly global stage.
His strategy is clear. By focusing on innovation, digitalization, and internationalization, Bernad aims to ensure that Spanish kitchen manufacturers don’t just participate in the global market but lead it. “Our ambition is for each edition to represent a qualitative leap,” he explains.
The Power of Synergy: A 360-Degree Vision
From September 28 to October 1, 2026, València will become the epicenter of the global “habitat” ecosystem. In a strategic masterstroke, Espacio Cocina SICI will be held concurrently with Feria Hábitat València, Textilhogar, and the innovative 360 by Cevisama.
This isn’t just about sharing a venue; it’s about recognizing that modern design is holistic.
“Projects today are increasingly global,” Bernad notes. “This format facilitates contact between professionals from different fields—furniture, textiles, kitchens, and surfaces—creating a dynamic environment where a comprehensive vision of the home can flourish.”
AMC Kitchen Lab: Where Architecture Meets the Stove
Perhaps the most anticipated feature of the upcoming fair is the AMC Kitchen Lab. This year, the space will be curated by the renowned designer Francesc Rifé. Known for his minimalist and sophisticated approach, Rifé has designed a translucent, conceptual architecture that challenges our traditional perceptions of the kitchen.
Bernad describes the Lab as a space for reflection. It’s an experiential project that focuses on sustainability and the seamless integration of technology within the domestic sphere. It’s proof that Espacio Cocina SICI is moving beyond a purely commercial trade show to become a cultural hub for design excellence.
A Message of Ambition
When asked about the future, Bernad’s outlook is one of infectious optimism. He sees a sector that has proven its resilience and its capacity for constant reinvention. As consumers demand more personalization and eco-friendly solutions, the kitchen industry is answering the call with smarter, more beautiful, and more functional designs than ever before.
His message to the industry is simple: Confidence and ambition. “We have a strong sector with enormous talent,” Bernad concludes. “If we work together, we can take advantage of every opportunity. Espacio Cocina SICI will be the place to meet, be inspired, and, above all, generate the business of the future.”
For architects, interior designers, and kitchen enthusiasts alike, the message is clear: all roads lead to València this September. The kitchen isn’t just where we cook; it’s where the future is being built.
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