I thought you might like to see a project I have been working on all semester for my Space Planning class. I had to create a vacation/guest home for a client. Building A Vacation Home or What I Do in School.
Building A Vacation Home or What I Do in School
The first part of the design process is known as Schematics. It consists of research such as familiarizing yourself with the geographical area, client special requests~in this case the clients wanted sustainable design~ aka green,etc. The client also wanted a home that has elements of universal design (aging in place, wheelchair accessible). The project also required that you select and explain your inspiration. My inspiration for this project came from Thorncrown Chapel. I had the opportunity to visit this lovely chapel, located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, many years ago. I remembered the peaceful feeling I had while being in the space. You can go to the website to read the entire background story of why and how the chapel was built. But I remembered that the owner, Jim Reed, was inspired to build Thorncrown “to give wayfarers a place to relax in an inspiring way.” While other students in the class selected inspiration in other forms like a pinecone or a leaf, I wanted a deeper meaning. I found it in Thorncrown.
Design Development
Next came Design Development. This is the fun part of designing a space. Certain challenges presented themselves such as the square footage footprint could not exceed 567 sq ft. A loft space could be included if you so desired. (I SO desired, so I added an additional 252 sq ft on of loft space.)
The client had a wish list that included things such as a reading area, a craft area, a fireplace in the bedroom and living room, yadda, yadda, yadda. Think $$$$$$$$$$.
Did I mention that the entire budget to build AND furnish the entire home was $100,000? YIKES!
My concept based on how the client wanted the room to feel ( romantic, cozy, artistic) and look (lots of texture, earth tones) was “Rustic Elegance“. Which translates into vintage and antique found treasures being used in new and creative ways (Meeting the green requirement.)
So how do you turn pretty eye candy into reality? Hours and hours of work. I had to create design boards to present (and defend/support) all of my selections. This video is only 10 minutes of my 30-minute presentation.
First Floor
Loft Space
Who still thinks interior design is only glamorous and fun?
After several years of a grueling school schedule I now know it is also TONS of work and that love truly lives in the details, but happily, I still truly love to design.
Now, who wants to hire me? Because I REALLY need a job.
Laura
Awesome work, Laura!!!
Laura-You are working SO hard! I knew it was hard, but did not imagine all the hours involved! Seeing the Thorncroft Chapelis now on my “bucket list”! Love your inpiration pictures and presentation!
Wowwwwwwwwwwww!!! u have done amazing with this project!! wow!!! I would loveeeeeeeeeeeeee it if my checkbook could afford a designer…lol…and trust me…U would be the one I would call in a heartbeat! U amaze me! :):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):)
Your drawings and choices are great, Laura! The drawings are one reason why, when I decided “no regrets”, I took an interior DECORATOR course. The finish part is what I love. I don't care about moving walls, what the code is, and lots of other things that designers have to deal with. I'm sure you'll have the phone ringing off the hook before you know it!
This all looks so familiar, yet difficult as my daughter is in interior design school. I have seen her lose sleep over projects, or worse, work into the night. Kudos to you for all of your hard work. Your presentation was nicely done!
xoxo
Jane
Laura,
It's all beautiful! You did such an awesome job and your presentation was so polished! Good luck with the job search…I have no doubt someone is going to snap you right up.:)
Two words………..NAILED IT!
Great job Laura, I knew you would pull off the rest of the semester with style and grace! You can't take that out of the girl. Have a great weekend!
PS you are my idol !!!!!!!!!!
I have not had a chance to watch the video but will later. I love that chapel. It is truly amazing. What a great place for inspiration!
I do! I do!! But first, I need a job, lol! Very nice design/layout! I am sure you will do exceedingly well.
Laura, this is just one example of how hard you have worked to achieve your goals. I feel that anyone fortunate enough to hire you as their designer will be getting more than their money's worth. Your dedication, blood, sweat and tears are going to pay off in the end. You da Boss, Laura! Sorry- I'm still in SoBe and thus influenced. Have lots of Art Deco shots – waiting to get home as uploading takes forever here. You are all in our thoughts!
Your hard work paid off … great job, Laura. Be proud!
Have a great weekend.
TTFN ~ Hugs of love, Marydon
You did a beautiful job!! Everything looks wonderful and I enjoyed your presentation. I know you are thrilled to have this project behind you. I took some Interior Design classes in college and they were really tough. Lots of hard work. Love & blessings from NC!
The hours spent were spent very well, Laura. Your inspiration is a splendid creation. Amazing design with almost everything your client asked for, I think. Well done!!
Laura, finally back to regular internet connection and was able to watch the video of your presentation. Again, I am in awe of all the time and effort you have put into achieving your goals – with many recent obstacles in your path. I am glad you chose Thorncrown Chapel as your inspiration. What a beautiful place – I hope to one day see it in person as well as a Laura Ingalls Gunn designer space!
Laura, you must have such a sense of accomplishment and pride! You did a FABULOUS job! OH! I wish I had your talent. Good for you!
Looks like a project that was a challenge for sure. This is exactly why I could never be designer. Good for you!!
~Liz
Laura –
I am impressed! What a beautiful presentation, meeting all the client's expectations. I love your inspiration – breathtaking. Well done, my friend! I have no doubt you will be posting once a month because you are too busy with clients.
– Deborah
Forgot to ask, when is graduation?!
I had dreams of going to design school….
Love your post.
Beautiful job! I would certainly give you an A, but my specialty isn't exactly interior design, so my vote doesn't count. Sigh.
Still, I think a budget of $100,000 to build AND DECORATE a lovely little vacation cottage is remarkable. One of these days I may be knocking on your door!
I love hearing about your school projects. It's my dream to do what you're doing. But I'm living a different dream, so I'll live vicariously through you. Lisa~