About Jamie
“Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life”. So that’s what I did.
Delve into the story of The Cabinet Nerd, where every precise measurement and thoughtful design choice stems from Jamie's passion for transforming houses into bespoke homes with kitchens that blend beauty, functionality, and the warm, personal touch every discerning homeowner deserves.
Meet your cabinet nerd, Jamie.
Meet Jamie, the heart and mind behind The Cabinet Nerd, where high-quality kitchen design meets unwavering dedication to client aspirations.
With years of experience and a sharp eye for both form and function, Jamie brings an unparalleled level of expertise to every project.
Guided by the philosophy that a kitchen is the heart of the home, she fuses innovative design with personalization to craft spaces that are not just beautiful, but also echo the unique lifestyle of each homeowner.
Her professional approach, enriched with a friendly touch, ensures that your design journey is as fulfilling and transparent as the end result.
Jamie is not just creating kitchens; she's meticulously building the backdrop of your family's cherished memories.
❝From 2012 - 2020 I have measured & designed more kitchens than I can count.❞
From the years 2012 - 2020 I have measured & designed more kitchens than I can count. In doing so, I noticed a pattern; all the kitchens I measured were “designed” to increase the efficiency of the installation crew aka (the builder’s bottom line) instead of being designed for your client’s functionality.
For example, the corner pantry closet that separates the fridge and the cooking area in the above builder grade kitchen is an easy solution. Builders install these to avoid the headaches of corner cabinet design, install and use to name a few. These corner pantry closets take up and waste valuable kitchen space.
Sure, the pantry closets have some shelves, but they are poorly spaced, are not adjustable and don’t even come out the full depth of the closet. This leaves a lot of function to be desired.
At Harrington Institute of Interior Design, the first rule of cabinetry design I learned was to start in the corners and build out from there. I explained to my homeowners what they would gain by removing the pantry closet. This was a no-brainer design decision.
When I replaced the corner closet with a swing- out base corner cabinet, (see photo on left), this added easy-to-find, easy-to-reach accessibility, an additional 8 sf of usable countertop space AND increased the “turn & step” work flow between the fridge and cooking zones.
By solving a design challenge with innovative products and 3-dimensional thinking, I hear my homeowner’s gratitude.
❝This is what drives me to space plan kitchens and design cabinetry every day. It's a rewarding & satisfying experience.❞
This is what drives me to space plan kitchens and design cabinetry every day. It is a rewarding & satisfying experience getting to know my clients, their struggles and the limitations in their current kitchen. I am very grateful to be able to transform their quality of life and day-to-day tasks with something that comes so easily to me.
It's my soul’s path to be surrounded by beauty, to create and to unite people; especially families.
While I play an important role in the success of your client's kitchen, you remain the star. I'm here to make you look good, really good.
The Cabinet Nerd's Design Philosophy
Client- Centered Approach
Every project is tailored to the individual, ensuring your kitchen is a reflection of you, your tastes, and your lifestyle needs for both today and tomorrow.
Balance of Beauty and Function
Designs that stand the test of time by harmonizing stunning aesthetics with practical functionality, creating spaces that are as usable as they are visually appealing
Quality without Compromise
Utilizing only the highest-caliber materials and the finest workmanship, to deliver a kitchen that not only looks remarkable but endures.
Seamless Integration
A belief that the kitchen should cohesively blend with the rest of your home, creating a seamless transition that enhances both the utility and the enjoyment of your living space.
Tool Box
2020
Design software For space planning and visualization to bring your client’s ideas to life.
Mydoma
For a streamlined process to communicate, pay invoices and manage our design files.
Bellmont
My go to cabinetry pick and partnership for designing modern custom cabinets.
Rev-a-shelf
My go to pick for specifying innovative storage & organizing accessories.
Accolades
NKBA Cabinetry Specialist
For professional development and focused knowledge in cabinetry materials, finishes, joinery and storage systems.
MyDoma Contest Winner
2nd Place Winner - Creative Category
NKBA Floorplans & Specifications
Knowledge in the components found on floor plans and drawings as a NKBA specification specialist.
Monogram - Training
2015-2022 attended Monogram Culinary Experience Center
Outstanding Member
Recognized as the Outstanding Committee Member from volunteers among NKBA's 71 chapters in America excelling in 2021
Canva Design Expert
200 Designs Milestone Badge in Canva Software
NKBA Women to Women Conf.
An honor & privilege to be hand-selected for the Women 2 Women Inaugural 2022 Leadership Conference.
Communication Chair @ NKBA
Responsible for communicating the mission of the NKBA, maintaining website & digital media to Chapter Members
MidContinent Cabinetry
1st Place Winner awarded by the esteemed MC Mid Continent Cabinetry for their Kitchen Remodel Category
Interior Design BA, Chicago Illinois
Experienced the art & architecture of Chicago, learned principles of design & hand-drafting. Studied abroad in Paris, France.
Staying up-to-date with kitchen trends, industry advancements & latest in software is a nerdy joy of mine.
Why am I the best designer for your kitchen project?
Choosing the best designer for your kitchen project is an investment in your home and your future. That's where Jamie, your Cabinet Nerd, comes in. With an unwavering commitment to high-quality design and meticulous attention to each minute detail, Jamie is dedicated to above-and-beyond service that ensures your kitchen not just meets, but exceeds your expectations.
With a strong belief that every homeowner deserves a kitchen that is as beautiful as it is functional, Jamie distinguishes herself by creating spaces designed to resonate with your unique lifestyle and tastes. Her precise, professional, yet warm approach means that you're not just investing in a kitchen but a collaborative partnership. By choosing Jamie, you are assured of a handcrafted design journey that skillfully marries aesthetics and utility while always prioritizing your vision. Whether you're an experienced design aficionado or embarking on your first design venture, Jamie is more than your designer; she's an unwavering ally on the road to your dream kitchen.
As a degreed kitchen designer, I use smart solutions to create unparalled storage & function in your client's kitchen.