A series of innovative celebrations highlighted the chapter’s 50th Anniversary.
By NKBA Staff
The NKBA Northern California Chapter marked its 50th anniversary this fall, celebrating five decades of community, volunteerism, and leadership in the kitchen and bath industry. For Chapter President Nureed Saeed, founder of Nu Interiors, the milestone was more than a party—it was a reflection on legacy, belonging, and the power of design to bring people together. “We wanted to celebrate our history, but also highlight the people and partnerships that make our chapter what it is,” said Saeed. “This milestone is truly about 50 years of volunteerism and connection.”
Honoring Excellence and Volunteerism
Over the past several years, the Northern California Chapter has been recognized nationally for excellence in leadership and programming—earning numerous NKBA Star Awards, including: Best President; Best Secretary/Treasurer; Best Membership Chair; Best Programs Chair; Best Student-Focused Initiative; and Best Community Initiative.
The chapter’s Student Design Symposium—created by past Programs Chair Sharon Washington—was later adopted by NKBA National as part of its learning initiatives. Its Community Initiative, developed with the Make It Home organization and Marin Foster Care Association, provides appliances to foster care parents in need through local dealers and manufacturers.
“These awards aren’t just a reflection on the council,” said Saeed. “They represent the hard work of volunteers who give their time and passion to keep this chapter thriving. It’s 50 years of volunteerism that makes this possible.”
A Year of Celebration
The 50th Anniversary Celebration on November 6 brought together members, sponsors, and friends at Lucky Strike in Alameda for a lively 1970s-themed evening filled with bowling, arcade games, dancing, a fajita and ice cream bar, and a raffle prize generously donated by SKS Appliances.
Miele provided an elegant coffee bar experience, while Luxus German Cabinetry, a Nobilia partner, served as the event’s Title Sponsor. Additional support came from Gold Sponsors All Natural Stone, Ferguson Home, and Miele; Silver Sponsors True Residential, Cosentino, Zephyr, and Kohler/Zurier; and Annual Chapter Sponsors IRG, DeWils Fine Cabinetry, Vadara, Zurier/Kohler, True Residential, BlueStar, Ferguson Home, Stoneville, and Rigg’s Distributing.
During the celebration, Saeed invited guests to contribute to a time capsule filled with member photos, notes, and mementos—symbolizing the enduring spirit of community that defines the chapter. The capsule will be hand-delivered to NKBA | KBIS Headquarters in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and entrusted to NKBA | KBIS Global President & CEO Bill Darcy for safekeeping until it’s opened at the 75th Anniversary in 2050.
The chapter also launched a digital storytelling series, “What’s Your NKBA Story?”, featuring reflections from longtime and new members—including an interview with Darcy on the meaning of community and the next era of NKBA leadership.
Looking Ahead
As the Northern California Chapter looks to its next 50 years, it does so with renewed energy and purpose. In 2026, the chapter will debut a new Design Competition in partnership with Zephyr and Modern Luxury, with winning designs featured in its Kitchen & Bath Issue next fall.
“Coming out of COVID, our goal was to rebuild connection—to make this the most inclusive, welcoming, and caring community possible,” said Saeed. “We now have more volunteers than ever. That says everything about who we are. Fifty years of volunteerism—that’s what this chapter represents. We’ve made it this far because people care. And that same love for this community will carry us through the next 50.”
