DESIGN PROJECT: THE RESERVE AT LAKE KEOWEE

DESIGN PROJECT LOCATION: LAKE KEOWEE, SC

INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO: KCL-IDESIGN, LLC

PRINCIPAL DESIGNER: KIMBERLY C. LYONS

PROJECT GOAL: DESIGN A CUSTOM-BUILT HOUSE WITH ECO-FRIENDLY FEATURES

PROJECT OUTCOME: THE DESIGN PROJECT IS STILL IN DEVELOPMENT

So, here is the scoop. As usual, it was a beautiful day at KCL-IDESIGN, LLC. I am the principal designer on a major project that takes up most of my time. Sometimes I can't post, which makes me sad. But my face quickly breaks into a huge smile whenever I remember the joy and excitement this design project brings me.

Quick note: I met the client at a trade show and got hired on the spot; the rest is history. The images below are from the groundbreaking phase.

The project is a custom-built home in the beautiful Reserve at Lake Keowee, South Carolina. The homes throughout this community are enormous, detailed, beautifully designed, and truly exceptional. Through my involvement in this project, I've had a blast selecting materials and finishes and preparing the exterior. I'm eager to dive in and add my signature touch to the interior. I'm also eager to see the stunning outcome once phase one is complete.

I sometimes think back to the first time I met the client. We discussed the distinctive styles, as well as the exterior and interior.

That said, I am pleased to have implemented the client's initial request, despite the minor challenges. She had a vision, but she couldn't express it clearly. I listened, held onto her words, and the masterpiece began to evolve. I find it unique for this reason. I take pride in being an excellent listener, an essential skill for a designer. It helps bring a client's vision for their home to reality. Although we still have a lot to accomplish, the client and I are delighted with the outcome.

Since the groundbreaking, the client has been admiring the completed work. She is beyond adorable! I promised not to take any photos of her, but I couldn't resist.

Nothing is more important than giving a client exactly what they envision. Whether it's a revamp of one or two rooms or a custom-built home, my job as a designer is to make it a reality. I enjoy watching a project evolve throughout its various phases. A lot has happened during the first design phase, but the positives have outweighed the negatives. As I always say, sometimes you must break design rules to give the client exactly what they want.

The builder discovered these massive stones while digging. They discussed creating an Eco-friendly fountain.

Breaking design rules means being creative and going beyond expected boundaries. It requires thinking creatively, which, in my book, is what brilliant design is all about.

Credit: Photos by Kimberly C. Lyons are the sole property of KCL-IDESIGN, LLC®.

DO NOT USE PHOTOS WITHOUT PERMISSION.

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