Today’s design trends aren’t just fluff. Designers are getting more creative than ever to give homeowners functional spaces that work for them. Homeowners can look at online resources, magazines, and Instagram all day and find countless design options, but they still need to have help narrowing down what they can afford and ultimately, what will make the biggest impact on the function of their space. When the cook steps in the kitchen, the experience should be like a symphony, with graceful movements utilizing each workspace to compose an edible masterpiece, even if it’s only a grilled cheese. There are endless opportunities to enhance the function of your client’s kitchen with purposeful placement of every piece of equipment one could have in the kitchen.

When I start to work with a client, I focus on their needs in the kitchen and the way they like to cook or host. Then, we focus on their design desires to incorporate style with the function of the space. Every client leaves our first appointment with homework. In order to move forward and receive the best finished product, I ask they take the drawings and assign their belongings to each cabinet unit. Sometimes, this is the most overwhelming aspect of a layout. Then we start to make lists and take measurements of specific items and find places or create spaces for them. This ensures that when the design is completed their kitchen will be thought out, and they will have adequate storage for their needs. Storage is the foundation for function in a kitchen. Using pullouts, dividers, lifts, and aftermarket units to create specific space for every cabinet can create a unique space that is developed for an individual’s needs. I tend to guide my clients to spend more money on function than fashion to add value to their experience. If we can cut out steps in the cooking and cleaning process, the kitchen experience will be more rewarding. If the heart of the home flows and is easier to maneuver, the time spent in the space will be more productive with less effort.

Once the function is established, the fun can begin! I like to discover people’s colors and styles by laying out multiple pallets and see which way they are naturally inclined. Usually, people have a warm or cool color pallet and modern, traditional, or transitional taste. Once we have some direction, I like to take doors in multiple colors and style to look at countertops. I like to tell clients we can select multiple colors and door styles but not get caught up in the color selection until we have countertop slabs in front of us. I love working with Francini’s staff and know I can send clients without me, and they still receive exceptional care. The slab selection is always exquisite and diverse. Depending on budget, there is an option for every need and style. I’m confident in our selections when we leave. With the help of my trusted fabricator, Dynamic Marble and Granite to lay out the slabs, there are endless combinations of cabinet color, countertop selections and back splashes to fit every style of home. Usually, the countertops are the glue in the joint of the design and can bring all the material selections together into a beautifully orchestrated work of art.

About Amber Rose Williard

I am passionate about creating spaces that function for all stages of life. With a culinary background, I look at kitchen spaces with function on the forefront of my mind. I’m drawn to warm inviting spaces, and always want my clients to see a reflection of themselves in the results of our design. Clients should feel comfortable in their space and find solace in the aesthetic created. Midcentury design will always have a special place in my heart, but I love all styles. Colors, neutrals, monochromatic space all have a home they belong in, and I enjoy working with homeowners to find what fits their style. I have worked in residential and commercial construction for nearly 11 years. Creating a space where people will be able to enjoy one another has always inspired me.

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