Architectural Cases

United by Design: A Night of Inspiration and Connection

A Vision Realized: The Founding Principles of AAPIDA's First Gala

Will Nguyen, founder of Collective Form, showcased his freshly tailored Vietnamese áo dài, encapsulating the spirit of cultural pride that permeated the Asian American Pacific Islander Design Alliance's (AAPIDA) inaugural gala. Joined by fellow executive board members Eric Chang, Claudette McCarron, James Fung, and Noz Nozawa, Nguyen welcomed over 300 guests to the Audrey Irmas Pavilion in Los Angeles on May 6. This event marked a significant milestone for AAPIDA, an organization dedicated to fostering and celebrating Asian Americans in the design and home sectors.

Honoring Pioneers and Nurturing New Talent in the Design Industry

Established five years ago by designers Jessica Davis and Young Huh, AAPIDA has consistently provided workshops, tours, educational programs, and mentorship opportunities. The gala served as an important occasion for the community to connect face-to-face. The evening, skillfully hosted by comedian Dylan Adler, brought together attendees from across the nation, highlighting the broad reach and impact of AAPIDA's mission. Esteemed guests included AD100 designers Jamie Bush and Leo Marmol, celebrity designer Bobby Berk, Mikel Welch, and Sarah Jane Ho, all converging in the Shohei Shigematsu-designed venue.

Recognizing Excellence and Championing Diversity in Design

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of several prestigious awards. Master artisan Robert Kuo, renowned for his innovative interpretations of Chinese decorative traditions, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Emerging talents Calvin Ma and Loren Brittany Cruz received Student Scholarship Awards, acknowledging their potential in the field. Benjamin Moore was recognized with the Industry Ally Award for its commitment to supporting AAPI designers and advancing diversity and equity within the industry. All award pieces were custom-created by acclaimed furniture and lighting designer John Pomp, celebrated for his exquisite artisanal glasswork.

A Vibrant Celebration of Culture, Talent, and Shared Heritage

The gala's program was further enriched by captivating performances. Singer Milck moved the audience with her powerful hit "Quiet," sharing a heartwarming connection with co-founder Noz Nozawa, with whom she had been friends since kindergarten. The dynamic taiko drumming group Kishin Daiko delivered an energetic performance, adding to the festive atmosphere. Jessica Davis eloquently summarized the evening's essence, stating, "Tonight is a testament to the strength of community, the power of creativity, and the importance of representation across our industries." Young Huh humorously recounted her regret about not wearing her traditional Korean hanbok, which was inadvertently damaged by a relative.

Concluding Remarks and the Joyful Harmony of Community

The night culminated with poignant closing remarks from Eric Chang, whose words on struggle and identity resonated deeply with the attendees, leaving many visibly moved. True to tradition, the celebration extended into a vibrant karaoke afterparty that lasted until the early hours. As Will Nguyen aptly put it, "It's not an Asian party without karaoke," perfectly capturing the joyful and communal spirit that defined AAPIDA's successful inaugural gala, an event proudly sponsored by AD PRO.

As Memorial Day approaches, Serena & Lily presents an enticing sale, offering significant reductions of up to 40% on a wide array of home furnishings and decorative items. This event provides a prime opportunity to acquire signature coastal-inspired pieces, ranging from sturdy outdoor sofas to elegant bedding, accent furniture, and unique home accessories. Shoppers can take advantage of these deals until May 27, enhancing their living spaces with stylish and high-quality selections at exceptional values.

Among the standout offerings, the Pacifica sofa, celebrated for its durability and design, is available at an impressive 40% discount, with an additional 10% off during the Memorial Weekend promotion. Crafted from UV-resistant, all-weather wicker with a rustproof aluminum frame, this sofa is built to withstand diverse climates. A satisfied customer from Newport Beach, California, attested to its resilience after three years of exposure to coastal moisture, noting no signs of wear. Its robust construction and child-friendly features, as observed by a parent with a toddler, make it a practical and long-lasting choice for any outdoor area.

For those seeking to revitalize their bedrooms, the sale includes various bedding options at up to 30% off. The Hydrangea Percale Bedding Set, with its delicate floral pattern against a serene sky-blue background, evokes the tranquility of a Nantucket retreat. Made from over 300-thread-count percale cotton, these sheets are remarkably light and breathable, ideal for warmer nights. Additionally, the Baywood Quilt, featuring a distinct linen-cotton blend top with hand-stitched details and a silky pure cotton underside, offers both artistic charm and comfort. Its unique crumpled texture adds a touch of artisanal quality, complementing the Hydrangea bedding for a cohesive coastal granddaughter aesthetic.

The sale extends to a variety of other home essentials, including the Fouta Bath Towel Set, which provides a luxurious yet practical option for beach or poolside use. These Turkish flat-woven towels, made from 420 GSM long-staple Aegean cotton, are lightweight but highly absorbent, available in stripes of sky blue, fog, and navy. For interior updates, the Faux Grasscloth Removable Wallpaper, discounted by 39%, offers a simple way to introduce texture to any room, with options from traditional beige to seaglass hues. The Hyannis Port Linen Pajamas, now 20% off, and the Gingham print pajamas, with an even greater markdown, provide luxurious comfort for sleeping, featuring breathable European linen and elegant pearl buttons.

Decorative lighting and storage solutions are also part of the promotion. The Brooks Fluted Table Lamp, with its unique enamel-coated iron shade resembling draped fabric, offers about 10 hours of cordless illumination, controlled by a simple tap. The Rattan Wave Stacking Baskets, discounted by 25%, combine style with utility, perfect for organizing items from sandals to sweaters, or creating an artistic display. Furthermore, the Cornwall Spindle Bed, featuring a handcrafted bobbin design and a four-poster silhouette, brings a blend of natural wood-grain aesthetics and New England vintage charm to any bedroom, while the Ravello Mirror, inspired by 1960s Palm Beach Regency, adds a touch of contemporary minimalism with its authentic bamboo-like hardwood frame.

The Serena & Lily Memorial Day sale presents a fantastic opportunity to refresh and elevate your home with coastal-inspired elegance. From durable outdoor furniture to luxurious bedding, versatile accessories, and charming decorative elements, the diverse selection ensures there’s something to suit every taste and need. These limited-time offers make it an ideal moment to invest in high-quality pieces that blend functionality with timeless style.