Events Archives

Design After Dark 2025 Highlights

Posted on October 30, 2025December 10, 2025 by Heather

October 30, 2025

Event Recap

A Surreal Celebration of Creativity, Community, and Inclusion

Monroe Lounge, SF

A Celebration of Self-Expression and Inclusion

The evening’s drag performance was a show-stopping highlight, hosted by the incomparable Black Opal Munro. She opened the night with a dazzling number and later emceed the costume contest. More than entertainment, the performance stood as a tribute to self-expression and to the LGBTQ+ community that has long shaped the Bay Area’s creative spirit. As the crowd cheered and applauded, it was clear this was a celebration of artistry, identity, and joy.

Meanwhile, guests explored the Castro Closet, where they could experiment with accessories and transform their surrealist looks. Face painting stations added a playful, hands-on way to express creativity. These interactive experiences kept every corner of Monroe alive with movement and connection. As a result, the evening felt spontaneous and immersive—exactly what makes Design After Dark one of the most anticipated events of the year.

On the eve of Halloween, the San Francisco City Center hosted its annual Design After Dark at Monroe Lounge. The space became a dreamlike playground for the design community. Now in its second year, the event was a vibrant, high-energy celebration that brought together more than 150 design professionals for a night of creativity, connection, and self-expression.

This year’s theme, Surrealist Ball, invited guests into a world where imagination reigned supreme. Attendees arrived in bold, inventive costumes that blurred the line between art and fantasy. Each look was more inspired than the last. The room pulsed with color, laughter, and conversation, creating an atmosphere that was as inclusive as it was electric.

Community, Creativity, and Connection

The excitement even extended beyond the main event. Vendor partner Mohawk Group hosted a pre-party in Design After Dark’s honor, highlighting how strongly the design community has embraced this celebration.

“I’m beyond proud of the incredible SF City Center team who made Design After Dark happen this year,” said Shannon Sheppard, SF City Center Director and Design Director at One Workplace. “Their creativity, energy, and hard work turned the night into a magical, unforgettable celebration. The space was buzzing with laughter and imagination—it was amazing to see our community come together and show up with such enthusiasm and creativity.”

The Event of the Year

With sold-out tickets and record attendance, this year’s Design After Dark reinforced its reputation as the must-attend event of the season. The combination of performance, costume, and community created something truly surreal. It was an experience that captured the spirit of design—joyful, inclusive, and endlessly expressive.

This is THE event of the year! The way people show up creatively is impressive.

Shannon Sheppard, San Francisco City Center Director

Event Photos

Highlights from the Surrealist Ball are featured below.

View the full photo gallery here →

On the Course at the 2025 Golf Tournament

Posted on October 27, 2025December 29, 2025 by Heather

October 27, 2025

Event Recap

On the Course at the 2025 Golf Tournament

Sequoyah Golf Course, Oakland

A Full Day of Fun

Golfers arrived early for breakfast and registration before the 10:00 AM shotgun start. The day followed a scramble format, making it accessible for golfers of all skill levels and ensuring every team had their moment to shine.

After 18 holes of competition, the group gathered for the 19th Hole Afterparty, where everyone traded scorecards for stories, snacks, and well-earned drinks. The camaraderie and laughter continued into the evening as prizes were awarded and the day’s best shots—and costumes—were celebrated.

Community and Connection

As always, the tournament served as more than just a day of golf. It was a reminder of the strength and spirit of our IIDA Northern California community. Through collaboration and creativity, our members and partners continue to make events like this possible.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors, and players who contributed to another successful year on the greens.

The design community hit the fairways for another unforgettable day at the Annual IIDA Northern California Golf Tournament. Held on October 27 at the historic Sequoyah Country Club, the event combined friendly competition, team spirit, and a dash of Halloween fun.

This year’s tournament embraced the season’s energy with a spooky twist. Foursomes showed up ready to play—and to impress—with creative team costumes and themed tee boxes that turned the course into a playful showcase of imagination.

Sponsors and Supporters

The event was made possible thanks to the incredible support of our 2025 Patrons and Event Sponsors, including Platinum sponsors Interface, Mohawk Group, and Two, and Gold sponsor Gensler. From breakfast and the Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar to the afternoon Clubhouse Afterparty, sponsors helped keep the day running smoothly and the energy high.

Special thanks also go out to all our Tee Box and Prize Sponsors, whose creativity on the course made each hole unique. Highlights included Closest to the Pin by Carl Hansen and Longest Drive by ALW.

Event Photos

Highlights from the 2025 Golf Tournament are featured below.

View the full photo gallery here →

Looking Back at MERGE 2025

Posted on October 17, 2025December 29, 2025 by Heather

October 17, 2025

Event Recap

Empowering Artists Through Design, Fashion, and Community

Sacramento

Highlights from the Runway

Design teams fully embraced their chosen artists, delivering dramatic reveals and inventive use of materials. NORR/WDSLA surprised the audience with a stunning skirt reveal hidden beneath sculptural wings. The Sac State student team opened their coat to unveil a tutu-inspired skirt that drew audible reactions from the crowd.

Several teams incorporated lighting into their designs in unexpected ways, including LPAS, Stantec, and Boulder. One standout moment came when Stantec’s Fred Astaire–inspired design took over the runway—dancing its way down and back, and winning over the audience with confidence and flair.

The Sacramento City Center once again brought creativity to the runway with MERGE 2025, IIDA Northern California’s annual fashion show celebrating collaboration across design disciplines. Now in its 14th year, MERGE continues to unite architecture firms, interior designers, students, and industry partners to create bold, one-of-a-kind designs made from sponsor-provided materials.

This year’s theme, Empowering Artists, invited teams to draw inspiration from iconic figures across music, art, and dance. From Misty Copeland and Fred Astaire to Frida Kahlo, Banksy, Beyoncé, and Bjork, each look reflected the influence and impact these artists bring to creative culture—and to the design community itself.

Creativity With Purpose

Beyond the spectacle, MERGE serves a deeper mission. The event highlights the creative power of the Sacramento design community while strengthening relationships between designers, students, and manufacturers. Importantly, proceeds from MERGE 2025 benefited the 2025 Student Design Awards, reinforcing IIDA Northern California’s commitment to supporting the next generation of designers.

A special surprise this year added to the excitement: Kristen Brown, an up-and-coming country music singer and former The Voice contestant, joined the judging panel, bringing a fresh and unexpected perspective to the runway.

An Electric Night

The energy in the room was unmistakable. With music and lighting perfectly setting the tone, the audience stayed fully engaged throughout the evening. Models fed off the crowd’s enthusiasm, embracing the runway and elevating each moment.

By the end of the night, one thing was clear. MERGE 2025 was a celebration of unity, creativity, and empowerment—proof that when this community comes together, the results are powerful.

MERGE shows just how powerful and united our Sacramento design community truly is—we celebrate creativity, collaboration, and each other.

Nicolette Loomis, MERGE 2025 Event Chair

Event Photos

Highlights from the MERGE fashion show are featured below.

View the full photo gallery here →

Celebrating Partnership

Posted on October 3, 2025November 29, 2025 by Yvonne Pingue

October 3, 2025

Event Recap

We Heard You: Celebrating Partnership at the 2025 Patron VIP Luncheon

City Club, San Francisco

On October 3, 2025, members of the IIDA Northern California community gathered high above the city at the beautiful City Club of San Francisco for a celebration rooted in gratitude, connection, and shared purpose. The 2025 Patron VIP Luncheon honored the incredible partners whose support fuels IIDA NC’s mission—advancing design through advocacy, professional growth, and community.

This year marked a milestone: 45 patrons strong, the largest group in the chapter’s history! The event theme, “We Heard You,” captured the spirit of the afternoon — a recognition that patron feedback shaped the newly refreshed 2026 Patron Program, designed to be clearer, simpler, and more impactful.

Shared Purpose and Future Vision

From start to finish, the event radiated warmth and optimism. Attendees mingled and reconnected, sharing ideas about how to continue building community and advancing advocacy together. The energy in the room reflected genuine appreciation and pride — a shared acknowledgment that the design community is stronger when patrons, partners, and members unite around a common vision.

“The setting was stunning, the program inspiring, and the message clear — IIDA NorCal truly values its patrons,” shared one attendee.

As the afternoon wrapped, guests left not only full of gratitude, but also energized for what’s next — a future built on listening, collaboration, and purpose.

An Elegant Afternoon of Connection and Appreciation

The City Club’s art deco interiors and panoramic views set a stunning backdrop for the celebration. Over lunch, chapter leaders shared heartfelt words of thanks, reflecting on how deeply patron support sustains the chapter’s initiatives and community impact.

A highlight of the afternoon was a thought-provoking Advocacy presentation by Adam Newton and Laura Taylor, who inspired attendees to consider the collective power of design professionals to influence policy and champion design excellence across Northern California. Their conversation sparked thoughtful dialogue and reminded everyone that advocacy isn’t just a responsibility — it’s a shared passion.

Turning Feedback Into Action

One of the most exciting moments came with the unveiling of the 2026 Patron Program, a direct result of feedback from the patron community. Guided by the message “We Heard You,” the new program emphasizes clarity, accessibility, and value — ensuring every patron understands how their partnership supports tangible, positive outcomes for the design profession.

“Hosting our patrons at the City Club was an absolute joy,” said Lisa Bieringer, IIDA NC Vice President of Sponsorship. “The space, the energy, and the people all reflected the heart of who we are as a community. We heard our patrons, and we turned that feedback into action — creating a Patron Program that’s clearer, simpler, and more meaningful than ever.”

A Record Year, A Bright Future

The 2025 Patron VIP Luncheon achieved everything it set out to do and more: celebrating patrons, unveiling an evolved program, and reaffirming advocacy as a cornerstone of IIDA Northern California’s mission. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the event’s success in fostering both appreciation and momentum for the year ahead.

A heartfelt thank-you to all 45 patrons for your continued belief in our work, and to Lisa Bieringer and Dylan Phaneuf, our Sponsorship leaders, for guiding this program with vision, collaboration, and care.

Here’s to another year of creativity, partnership, and shared purpose — and to a future shaped by voices that are heard, valued, and celebrated.

If you’re interested in supporting our efforts in 2026, please take a look at our 2026 Annual Patron Program or contact our sponsorship team.

Leaders Breakfast 2025 Highlights

Posted on September 10, 2025December 15, 2025 by Heather

September 10, 2025

Event Recap

Celebrating Vision, Leadership, and the Future of Design

Westin St Francis at Union Square, San Francisco

Spotlight on Emerging Leadership

The Chapter also celebrated Mary Oliver, recipient of the 2025 Emerging Leader Award. Mary’s dedication to design excellence, mentorship, and community impact embodies the next generation of leadership within IIDA Northern California.

Corinda Wong with Emerging Leader Award recipient May Oliver, presented by her father (center).

A Morning of Connection

As always, the morning began with lively networking among colleagues and partners before guests gathered for a shared breakfast and keynote presentation. The room was filled with conversation, inspiration, and optimism—hallmarks of an event that continues to honor design’s vital role in shaping our world.

Design and leadership took center stage at the 2025 IIDA Northern California Leaders Breakfast, held at the historic Westin St. Francis on Union Square. The annual gathering brought together designers, architects, and industry professionals to celebrate creativity, innovation, and community in the built environment.

Honoring Design Excellence

IIDA Northern California was proud to recognize Primo Orpilla and Verda Alexander of Studio O+A with the Leadership Award of Excellence. For more than three decades, their studio has redefined workplace design and inspired new thinking around creativity, sustainability, and the future of work. Their vision continues to shape how design influences culture, community, and the human experience.

MillerKnoll’s Darius Zubrickas presenting the Leadership Award of Excellence

Inspiring Ideas from the Keynote

This year’s keynote speaker, Kevin Bethune—Founder and Chief Creative Officer of dreams • design + life—shared his perspective on how human-centered design can unlock innovation and purpose. Drawing from his experience across engineering, business, and design, Kevin’s message encouraged attendees to imagine the future of design through a wider, more inclusive lens.

Event Photos

Photos: Highlights from Leaders Breakfast 2025 are featured below.

View the full photo gallery here →

Design, DJ Beats & DIY Bouquets

Posted on August 21, 2025November 3, 2025 by Yvonne Pingue

August 21 2025

Event Recap

Design, DJ Beats & DIY Bouquets: The 2nd Annual East Bay Design Expo Blooms Big

BLOC15 Event Venue

The East Bay City Center team brought the energy (and the flowers!) to Oakland this August for the 2nd Annual East Bay Design Expo—and what a night it was! Hosted once again at the vibrant Bloc15, the event gathered nearly 150 design professionals and over 30 vendors for an evening filled with creativity, community, and connection.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. The venue’s industrial charm set the perfect backdrop for a showcase of innovation and artistry, while our theme of “creative partnerships” highlighted the East Bay’s incredible maker spirit.

A Celebration of Collaboration

This year, the Expo shined a spotlight on the intersection of design and craft. Vendors were encouraged to share their custom capabilities and maker collaborations, and the results were nothing short of inspiring.
One standout? DJ Jude Wellington, founder of In The Mix Productions, who not only kept the dance vibes flowing but also showcased his custom contract-grade DJ booths—designed in collaboration with local furniture fabricators.

“The feedback and energy we received from attendees were extraordinary,” said Jude. “Together, I believe we sparked meaningful conversations about how DJ culture and design can bridge creativity, community, and workplace experience.”

Design With Purpose: Partnering With IDO

The East Bay team also proudly partnered with Industrial Design Outreach (IDO) as this year’s philanthropic beneficiary. IDO introduces industrial design to kids in underserved communities—empowering the next generation of makers.

Before the event, Eric Pfeiffer hosted a design charrette with IDO students, who prototyped their own furniture pieces to display on the Expo’s main stage. Attendees had the chance to meet the students in person, see their work up close, and learn more about IDO’s mission directly from Program Director Amy Berk, who shared a few heartfelt words during the evening’s program.

Through raffle ticket sales (and a few friendly bidding wars!), the Expo raised over $600 for IDO—thanks to generous vendor-donated prizes ranging from wine and gift cards to lighting and furniture.

A Picnic Party for the Design Community

And of course, it wouldn’t be an East Bay event without a few creative touches. Guests enjoyed a “picnic-style” spread of food and refreshments, upbeat tunes, and the now-famous Build-Your-Own-Bouquet station dreamed up by Kelly Toole—a fan favorite that had attendees leaving with smiles (and armfuls of flowers).

The event’s playful details—from custom signage to the Instagram-worthy photo booth—made for a night that perfectly balanced professionalism with personality.

“Working with you all is genuinely enjoyable,” Kelly wrote to the planning committee after the event. “We received so much positive feedback on our second expo, and I agree it was more successful than our first. The venue loves working with us, too.”

Looking Ahead

Between the great turnout, the creative energy, and the seamless operations (shoutout to Bloc15 for handling both trash and bar service—every planner’s dream), this year’s Expo set the bar high for 2026.

Huge thanks to everyone who participated, volunteered, or stopped by to celebrate the best of design in the East Bay. Special congratulations to Amanda Darus, officially welcomed as the new Director of the East Bay City Center—we can’t wait to see where she helps take the chapter next!

Until next year, keep creating, collaborating, and connecting.

A Cult Classic Night Out for IIDA NorCal Members

Posted on August 7, 2025November 3, 2025 by Yvonne Pingue

August 7, 2025

Event Recap

The Screening Room: A Cult Classic Night Out for IIDA NorCal Members

Alamo Drafthouse, San Francisco

On August 6, 2025, IIDA Northern California members traded design boards for popcorn buckets at The Screening Room — a one-night-only movie experience at San Francisco’s iconic Alamo Drafthouse. Hosted by the Membership Committee, this exclusive event was part cinema, part celebration, and entirely about community.

Inside the private theater, the atmosphere was pure joy — laughter, shared snacks, and the buzz of designers enjoying a well-earned night off. Guests settled in for table-side dinner and drinks, Alamo-style, as the campy cult classic Death Becomes Her lit up the screen. With Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, and Bruce Willis delivering all the drama and glamour, the energy in the room matched the film’s technicolor flair.

Before the feature began, IIDA NorCal President Corinda Wong, along with Membership VP Cat Peterson and Assistant VP Kim Clauss, welcomed attendees and shared a heartfelt thank-you to members for their continued engagement and support. The event, inspired by a simple idea — to gather our community for something casual, creative, and just plain fun — absolutely delivered.

In the weeks leading up to the event, members voted on the movie theme and final selection, creating a sense of anticipation and ownership. The result? A full house of designers laughing, gasping, and quoting iconic lines in unison — proof that great design and great drama share a few things in common: timing, creativity, and style.

“The IIDA Members Only event at Alamo Drafthouse was the perfect mix of design inspiration, community, and fun — a great reminder of the value of our IIDA network,” shared Cat Peterson, reflecting on the night’s success. Her sentiments were echoed by Kim Clauss, who added that “seeing our design community come together at a one-of-a-kind venue to connect and simply enjoy each other’s company was a beautiful reminder of why these gatherings matter so much.”

From the opening scene to the final credits, the mood remained light and lively. Between bites of popcorn and bursts of laughter, attendees reconnected with familiar faces and met new ones. Even after the lights came up, conversations carried on — a testament to the warmth and camaraderie of the IIDA NorCal community.

The Alamo Drafthouse — a restored Mission District gem — proved to be the perfect setting for the evening. Its vintage charm, cinematic ambiance, and attention to detail created an environment that design enthusiasts could truly appreciate. And while attendance was more intimate than expected, that only meant more food, more drinks, and more laughs for everyone.

The Membership Committee is already looking ahead, with plans to make The Screening Room a recurring member event — perhaps even biannual. After all, every great classic deserves a sequel.

Stay tuned for the next IIDA NorCal members-only experience — and if you’re not yet a member, now’s the perfect time to join the cast!

Join or Renew Your Membership

United in Pride

Posted on June 29, 2025November 3, 2025 by Heather

June 29 2025

IIDA NorCal at the 2025 SF Pride Parade

This June, the IIDA Northern California Chapter once again came together to proudly celebrate SF Pride — and what a celebration it was!

As a chapter, our goal was simple but powerful: unite our community and show our unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community across Northern California. For the second year in a row, our members, allies, families, and friends gathered to march, rally, and celebrate who we are — not just as individuals, but as one inclusive design community.

A Tradition in the Making

It all began with a simple idea: what if we, as IIDA NorCal, marched together at SF Pride?

That seed of inspiration led to a conversation between IIDA member Damien Watson, IIDA Assistant VP of EDI, and Paul Fogg, IIDA VP of Philanthropy, — and just like that, the wheels were in motion. Last year was our first time walking as a chapter. This year, it was clear: this is something special, and we’re just getting started. We hope to continue this tradition year after year, building momentum, building community, and building pride.

Pre-Party With Purpose

The day kicked off at the Andreu World Showroom (shout-out to our incredible hosts!) with a vibrant pre-party. It wasn’t just a get-together — it was a gathering of allies, advocates, and families. Children painted rainbows on their cheeks, members personalized their Pride shirts, and the energy in the room was electric.

We don’t call our supporters “sponsors” — we call them Allies, and that word carries meaning. These are the people and companies standing with us in full solidarity. It was a joy to see so many faces — old and new — showing up, not just for the party, but for the purpose.

We heard from a few inspiring voices, too:

Paul Fogg, Regional Manager at Andreu World, gave a heartfelt welcome.
Kristin Guindi, IIDA SF City Center Director and Made By Pair National Brand Ambassador, gave thanks to all of our Allies and the dedicated committee behind the scenes.
and Damien Watson, Market Development Manager at two, delivered a fiery rally cry, getting the whole group energized and ready to take on Market Street together.

Marching With Meaning

At noon, we gathered at Folsom and Beale for our official time slot to march in the parade. From the moment we stepped off, the energy was palpable. We weren’t just walking — we were marching in protest, in pride, and in unity, representing not only ourselves, but everyone who couldn’t be there.

This wasn’t just about being seen. It was about standing up, speaking out, and showing the world who we are and what we stand for.

As a chapter, IIDA NorCal represents professionals from every corner of the design industry — from architecture firms to furniture manufacturers, large companies to small studios. But when we march together, those lines disappear. We are one chapter, one community, walking with one purpose.

Our Mission on Full Display

IIDA’s mission is to advance Commercial Interior Design as a profession — but that mission is rooted in more than just beautiful spaces. We advocate for healthy, sustainable, and equitable spaces, and that work begins with the people in them.

SF Pride gives us a chance to not only support LGBTQ+ individuals, but also to educate others about who we are, what we do, and why it matters. Many people don’t know what IIDA is, or how we impact the spaces where people live, work, and gather. Events like this give us a platform — and a very visible one — to share our story.

With many proud members of the LGBTQ+ community, this event means everything. Creating a safe and celebratory space where others can network, show their pride, and grow their confidence is what it’s all about.

Looking Ahead

We are so proud of what we’ve built, and even more excited about where it’s going. SF Pride has become more than an event for IIDA NorCal — it’s a statement. A celebration. A tradition. To everyone who joined us, supported us, or cheered from the sidelines: thank you. Your energy, love, and presence help us move our mission forward — one step, one march, one rainbow at a time.

Until next year — stay proud.

Want to get involved with IIDA NorCal or join us next year? Keep an eye on our events calendar, and follow us on social media for updates and opportunities. 🌈

Check out the full photo album for all the fabulous memories!

Designing for a Better Planet

Posted on May 27, 2025May 27, 2025 by Heather

May 2025

How IIDA NC’s Climate Action Committee is Leading Change

Mobilizing the design community for bold, collective climate action.

In 2021, a group of designers from our IIDA Northern California Chapter came together to form the IIDA NC Climate Action Committee, with a shared goal: to take real, actionable steps toward addressing climate change within the interior design industry.

Laying the Foundation

In its first year, the Climate Action Committee supported critical decarbonization legislation at the state level, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable built environment across California. One of the committee’s foundational achievements was the creation of the IIDA Northern California Position Statement on Climate—a bold and unapologetic call for the design profession to lead in creating positive change. It was the first statement of its kind from any IIDA chapter.

Introducing the Climate Crawl

To engage the local Bay Area design community, the committee launched the Climate Crawl—a simple idea with powerful impact. The goal: gather design firms across San Francisco to share their climate journeys, successes, challenges, and resources. Every firm is at a different point in its journey, and there’s so much we can learn from one another.

Each month, a different firm hosts the group, sharing how they’re rethinking materials, processes, and priorities to combat climate change. Now in its fourth year, the Climate Crawl continues to grow. It’s become a model for how knowledge-sharing can drive real progress—especially in an industry where every project has the power to shape a more sustainable future.

Building a Climate-Conscious Design Community

The IIDA NC Climate Action Committee serves as the working arm for all things climate-related within our chapter. Our mission is to inspire, educate, lead, and foster a design community that is both socially and environmentally responsible. We believe interior design plays a critical role in the climate conversation. From the materials we specify to the carbon footprint of our spaces, we have the power—and responsibility—to make better choices. And we know we’re stronger together.

“We challenge interior design professionals and industry partners to take an integral role in tackling climate change and restoring our communities and planet.”

Join the Movement

We’re just getting started. The committee continues to host panels, collaborative events, and the Climate Crawl to keep climate action at the forefront of our profession. With every conversation, every crawl, and every commitment, we move closer to an industry dedicated to designing a regenerative and resilient future.

We’d love for you to join us! If you’re passionate about climate and ready to take action, we welcome you to get involved. For more information, reach out to: verda@o-plus-a.com

Pioneers in Design – Jill Dineen

Posted on May 15, 2025June 9, 2025 by Heather

May 15 2025

Event Recap

Pioneers in Design – Jill Dineen

SF Jazz, San Francisco

Read about all the details of the 2025 Pioneers in Design event!

On May 15, the Northern California design community gathered once again at SF Jazz to celebrate innovation, leadership, and the power of creativity at the 2025 Pioneers in Design event.

This year, we honored Jill Dineen, Executive Director of Leap Arts in Education, whose tireless advocacy and leadership have brought transformative arts experiences to thousands of Bay Area students. Under Jill’s guidance, Leap serves nearly 10,000 public school students annually with a range of visual and performing arts programs, architecture workshops, and its signature Sandcastle Classic—a beloved event that brings together designers, builders, and young minds in a joyful celebration of creativity.

The evening began with a lively hosted reception, as IIDA members, design leaders, educators, and students filled the SF Jazz lobby with conversation and connection. The energy in the room reflected the spirit of the event: warm, collaborative, and inspired by a shared belief in the role of design to make a difference in our communities.

2025 Pioneer – Jill Dineen, Executive Director, Leap Arts in Education

2025 Distinguished Achievement Honoree, Lunny Lundstrom (middle left) and his daughter with Corinda Wong and Melissa Pesci.

As the program opened, Lunny Lundstrom of Interface was recognized with this year’s Distinguished Achievement Award in honor of his decades-long contributions to sustainable design and inclusive interiors. His remarks set the tone for an evening grounded in purpose and impact.

Taking the stage next, Jill shared her personal and professional journey—moving between stories of her work with Leap and reflections on the essential role of the arts in education and society. A gifted speaker (and a celebrated blues and jazz vocalist in her own right), Jill inspired the audience with her vision for how design and the arts can foster resilience, creativity, and opportunity for all students and even shared her beautiful voice with the audience.

Following a thoughtful Q&A, the evening continued with a celebratory reception where conversations sparked by Jill’s message continued late into the night.

IIDA Northern California extends heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors, including our Five-Star, Four-Star, and Three-Star partners, and to our Patrons, whose ongoing support makes this event—and the broader mission of IIDA NC—possible.

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, and supported this year’s Pioneers in Design. We invite you to browse the gallery below to relive a few highlights from this unforgettable evening.

If you are interested in being a part of the Pioneers in Design committee for 2026, please reach out.

Event Photos

Full photo album