MEET THE INSTRUCTOR
Heather Kirk
Owner & Principal, Kirk Riley Design
A Southern California native, Heather studied Business Administration at Cal State University Long Beach before completing her design education at The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM with a degree in Interior Design. After gaining experience working on some high-profile projects, Heather ventured out on her own and in 2004 founded Kirk Riley Design.
Specializing in vintage residential renovations, Heather strives for the long life of remodeled spaces and uses color, pattern and a creative mix of materials to create award-winning designs. She works on whole home projects, kitchen and bath remodels, and custom furnishings. When it comes to the kitchen, she loves selecting appliances. “It’s like buying small cars – shiny with cool features.”
Heather has remodeled homes in and around Seattle, the Puget Sound region, and Southern California. Her work has been featured in magazines and television, both locally and nationally. She is a member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).
THE EXPERIENCE
WORKSHOP DETAILS
Understanding Materials, Relationships, and Professional Practice
This portion of the workshop takes place inside two premium showrooms at the Seattle Design Center: DFG and Holland & Sherry. Participants gain real-world exposure to how materials, vendors, and designers work together throughout a residential project lifecycle.
FOCUS AREAS INCLUDE:
- In-depth review of materials, finishes, and product applications
- How designers evaluate quality, durability, and appropriateness for residential projects
- Understanding how showrooms support designers from specification through installation
- Trade-only products versus retail offerings
- Professional etiquette when engaging showroom teams
- What industry partners look for when building long-term relationships
OUTCOME
Participants leave feeling comfortable navigating trade showrooms, asking informed questions, and understanding how material decisions are supported behind the scenes.
Design Practice, Business Reality, and Career Growth
Following the showroom immersion, participants gather for an open-format, candid conversation with Heather Kirk. This portion is intentionally unscripted, creating space for real questions, honest discussion, and practical insight drawn from lived experience.
DISCUSSION TOPICS MAY INCLUDE:
- Building and maintaining vendor relationships
- Lessons learned from owning and operating a boutique design studio
- The realities of residential design practice beyond design school
- Working effectively with contractors and trades
- Client communication and expectation management
- Career pathways in residential interior design
- When independence makes sense and when it may not
- Common early-career challenges and how to navigate them
OUTCOME
Participants gain clarity, reassurance, and perspective, leaving with greater confidence about their professional direction.
LATEST WORK
