doing some drafting

Lately I've been so busy with my new venture in photography that I haven't shared with you all my love for design as well! Since resigning from my job, many of you know that I have started my own business-

Heather Ann Design & Photography

It is a creative design business that mainly entails, but is not limited to, interior design concepts & journalistic photography. Interior Design services offered include, design consultations, custom floor plans, specialty electrical plans, interior kitchen & bathroom mill work, custom furniture design, residential furniture & finish specifications, and personal client shopping at Houston & Dallas markets. Photography services include engagements, bridals, seniors, babies, kids, families, weddings, & various social events. I'm currently in the works of developing a website that will showcase my portfolio and pricing. But don't let me get sidetracked with photography today, because this post is dedicated to some of my beloved design work, particularly a kitchen update I'm currently working on.

The Kitchen that I've been working with is in an older house. The floor plan is very functional, yet some areas are slightly tight on space in regards to the breakfast table. The client wants granite counter tops around the kitchen's perimeter and a custom island centrally located to serve both functionally for storage and aesthetically for a formal kitchen feel.

We started with pictures of inspiration and took note of elements we liked and could evolve our design from.

Above is a schematic floor plan of the existing kitchen. The main importance of this plan is to determine the perimeter cabinet dimensions so we can then verify the final size that our island can be (based on standard kitchen design & spacing regulations).

The first option I drafted is a more formal look with decorative corbels & fluted pilasters that offer a "bookend" look to the island. Two false panels surround an operable storage cabinet that features a decorative monogram stenciled in the center for a custom element.

The options for a custom island are truly limitless and any design could be evolved to no end. However this island is slightly smaller due to the space constraints of the kitchen. Regardless I drafted four options for the sides of the island (which will both be treated with the same design).

Above is the back view of the island. It features the fluted pilasters & decorative corbels, as well as three drawers that will serve as storage for kitchen linens.

The second design option I drafted offers more of a cottage or "farmhouse" feel with the decorative wooden posts serving as the island's knee space support.

Once again, there are limitless options as for the spacial design and functionality of each side of the island. That is where it takes good communication with the client to determine what their main needs for the space will be. Every one has a different cooking style in their kitchen and it's so fun to create a space that is conducive to each user's needs.

Finally, the last design I drafted was the back view for the second style. Depending on the client it could have three drawers for kitchen linens and table accessories or could have one cabinet for large cooking appliances (kitchen aid mixers, pots & pans, blenders, etc).

Also, wine cellars (refrigerators) are all the new rage and custom islands can be made to house those as well. That's the fun part about design, there is never an end to what you can do! I'll keep you guys posted on the rest of my design projects! I have a lot coming up that I'm excited to show and get your feedback on. If only there were 4 more hours in each day :)

Also keep checking back to see more photography, design tips, & what Ryan and I are up to! Sign up to follow us on the right hand side if you like what you see!