The kitchen and bath design industry has grown into one of the most influential parts of residential development, shaping how people experience comfort, function, and style in their homes. From small-scale renovations to full luxury estates, homeowners today look for design solutions that combine craftsmanship with modern efficiency. In this landscape, Express Kitchen Bath and Flooring has built a reputation for quality, trust, and innovation through more than twenty years of work in the tri-state area.

At the center of the brand’s newest chapter is interior designer and entrepreneur Femen Ogdun. A graduate of Parsons The New School of Design, she brings a global design sensibility shaped by experience in New York City, Florida, and international markets. As a second-generation member of a family that helped pioneer kitchen and bath concepts in the region, she blends deep industry roots with a modern approach. Her work ranges from compact kitchen and bath remodels to multi-unit developments and high-end residential projects, each designed with careful attention to scale, lifestyle, and long-term value.

Today we introduce Femen Ogdun, the woman guiding Express Kitchen Bath and Flooring in Saddle Brook and reshaping how clients think about home renovation.

1. You grew up in a family that helped shape kitchen and bath design in the tri-state area. How did that background influence your early ideas about design and your decision to pursue this career?

Growing up in a family that helped shape kitchen and bath design in the tri-state area gave me an early appreciation for how meaningful a well-designed space can be. I spent my childhood around showrooms, materials, and job sites, which naturally shaped my eye for detail and function. That environment made design feel like a familiar language, so pursuing it professionally felt like a natural next step—one that allowed me to refine my skills, study the craft in depth, and eventually bring a more modern, global perspective back into a legacy my family helped build.

2. You studied at Parsons, which is known for its strong creative environment. What experiences during your time there shaped the way you work today?

Studying at Parsons exposed me to a creative environment that pushed me to think beyond traditional design rules. Instead of focusing only on what’s expected or standard, I learned to think abstractly, experiment, and approach every project from a fresh perspective. That mindset still influences my work today—I’m always considering new ways to solve problems, play with scale and materials, and create spaces that feel both innovative and personal to each client.

3. You design across a wide range of project types. How do you approach the challenge of creating thoughtful and timeless spaces for clients with very different scales and budgets?

I approach every project with the same mindset: truly listening to my clients. In many ways, designers are like therapists—we spend time understanding how people live, what they value, and what will make their everyday routines better. Whether the project is compact or high‑end, I focus on thoughtful layouts, quality materials, and timeless details that fit both the scale and the budget. No matter the size, the goal is to create a space that feels personal, functional, and enduring.

4. Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by the renovation process. What common mistakes do you see, and how do you guide clients toward more informed choices?

One of the biggest mistakes I see homeowners make is not fully communicating what they truly want and often choosing trendy finishes or designs that don’t reflect their lifestyle. Many also assume that what looks great online will automatically fit their space, without considering scale, layout, or flow. Renovations can feel overwhelming, so I guide clients by asking the right questions, helping them clarify their needs, and providing tools like renderings and mood boards to visualize the space. I also educate them on materials, functionality, maintenance, and realistic budgeting, so they can make informed choices that balance style with practicality. My approach is to simplify the process while creating spaces that feel personal, functional, and timeless.

5. Your work blends traditional values from your family’s legacy with contemporary ideas. How do you balance innovation with the practical expectations of a renovation project?

I approach every project like a conversation between the past and the future, updating traditional elements with modern finishes. I balance innovation with the practical expectations of a renovation—ensuring every space works well for how clients live—while creating designs that feel timeless, personal, and thoughtful.

6. Express KBF offers contractor line, high-end, and turnkey solutions. From a design standpoint, what does it take to keep the same level of quality across such varied categories?

Maintaining quality across contractor, high-end, and turnkey projects comes down to functional design and carefully selected materials that fit each category. For commercial spaces, that might mean durable surfaces and efficient lighting, while in homes I focus on timeless finishes and personal details. In every project, thoughtful layouts and attention to detail ensure the same high standard of quality.,

7. You have completed projects across several regions, including international work. What has this wider exposure taught you about how people live and what they value in their homes?

Working on projects across different regions, including internationally, has shown me that while lifestyles and design preferences vary, people everywhere value comfort, functionality, and spaces that reflect their personalities. It has taught me to listen closely to clients, understand their daily routines, and create designs that are not only beautiful but also truly livable. This exposure has broadened my perspective, helping me blend local trends with timeless design principles to meet diverse needs.