Design Community Celebrates SF Design Center’s 50th Anniversary in Style

On August 15, the iconic San Francisco Design Center Galleria was transformed for a swanky soiree sponsored by San Francisco Magazine, to celebrate 50 years of design innovation. San Francisco Design Center’s (SFDC) 50th birthday was celebrated by area designers, artists and design students, who came out to support its contribution to the city’s creative community. 

The night got off to a rollicking start with a live performance by Lavay Smith and Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers, sponsored by SFJAZZ. Guests toasted the occasion with libations provided by Champagne Lallier, Materra Cunat Family Vineyards and Hotaling & Co. Partygoers also rubbed shoulders with some of San Francisco’s VIP Designers, including Jay Jeffers of Jay Jeffers Design, Jon de la Cruz of de la Cruz Interior Designs, and designers Tineke Triggs, Noz Nozawa and Lisa Straprans.

The night was more than just a good party–it was also for a good cause. Proceeds from the celebration benefited the Interior Design Department at San Francisco State University, supporting scholarships and programs for emerging designers. SFDC’s Michael Moore highlighted the center’s role as a community hub, and as an investor in the future of design in San Francisco. 

“The San Francisco Design Center has always been more than just a place—it’s a community, a catalyst for creativity, and a home for designers,” he said. “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we’re not just looking back at the incredible designs of the past; we’re also committed to nurturing the future of design in our city, ensuring that San Francisco remains at the forefront of global design innovation.”