Life & Work with Kelli Fernandez of Denver West

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelli Fernandez

Hi Kelli, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I graduated from University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point with a Bachelor’s of Science in Interior Architecture. From there, I landed my first job at Marc-Michaels Interior Design in Winter Park, FL. Working on high-end custom homes, I expanded my design skills in the Interior Detailing Department and learned the skill of creating full interior architectural sets that were used by all trades that worked on a particular project. Calling out and drawing every detail through projects of this scale, gave me the once in a lifetime opportunity to really push my creativity and learn the importance of client presentations, and seeing a scaled drawing come to life. My career then transitioned to a Bath Project Coordinator at the Waterworks showroom in Minneapolis. I learned all about plumbing from how the systems worked in a shower, to the beautiful fixtures, as well as endless tile choices and designs, down to the accessories in a finished bath. I used my prior skills to estimate tile quantities for projects, and assist the showroom Sales Associates as they worked with numerous designers and architects to create one of a kind bathrooms utilizing Waterworks’ luxury products. The opportunity to move to Colorado, which had been a dream of mine as a child, became available and I soon moved to Denver on another journey expanding my experience and knowledge. As an Architectural Designer, my role was to work on the interior details of the custom homes they built in Washington Park and surrounding neighborhoods. I worked closely with the carpenters, and cabinet makers, specifying trim packages, fireplace details, stair balustrades, kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, and custom built-ins through-out the home. My desire to live outside the busy city and amongst Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes, prompted me to start my own business and make the move westward. By 2013, I took the leap of faith that allowed me to build on the relationships I made through my design career this far, and create a life centered around what I love to do professionally, as well as growing my family, and enjoying the true beauty surrounding me.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest transition for me was starting my business. My roles were stretched way beyond just designing and drafting and I struggled with the non-creative side of things. Creating a business plan, understanding how to file taxes, and sales and marketing. With the help and patience of my husband, and given the opportunity to team up with a few colleagues, I was able to gain the experience I needed to be confident in this new adventure. After 7 years, I am fortunate enough to work with the same team today!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in architectural space planning, creating detailed drawing sets utilizing Auto-CAD for the use of communicating my client’s design to all parties associated with their project. The blueprints of their project, at an interior level. I complete a range of documents including, existing plans, demo plans, proposed plans, furniture plans, interior elevations, sections, millwork details, reflected ceiling plans, electrical plans, and interior schedules. I have enjoyed all the different paths I’ve taken in the Design Field as a creative, as it is truly what has shaped me, and created this niche I am proud to be in today.

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is loving what I do for a profession. The passion I have for design and architecture, pushes me to keep learning, and to empower others along the way. I continue to explore architecture and hope to design and build a home with my family someday.

Contact Info:

• Email: kellifernandez.design@gmail.com
• Instagram: kellifernandezinteriors