Selecting A Design Expert

You may be one of the many people that start your project with some general ideas of what you like and what you want. Often there are also one or two specific elements the new design must address but you can't quite figure out how to make them work.

You could call a contractor and he would likely give you a practical solution. His information would be based on his construction knowledge and products he's used in the past. But that would be addressing only half the equation. What about the design? What about that special touch, those elements that help to make this new space YOUR space?

What you need is a Design Expert--someone who knows how to convert your ideas and dreams into a real design plan. Someone who knows the latest products available and whether they are appropriate for your particular application. Someone who can provide you with a full service design experience, managing your project from start to finish.


Karen Ray, designer and owner of Bull Valley Kitchens

karen Prior to Bull Valley Kitchens, Karen worked for several high-end custom cabinetmakers, honing her skills of cabinet construction and product knowledge. Over the past two decades, she has worked in many facets of design, both commercial and residential, designing retail stores for Sears, offices for many types of businesses (3M, Seagate, Homart, Prairie Stone in Hoffman Estates to name a few), as well as residential spaces which include kitchens, master suites, entertainment centers, and offices. This diverse portfolio of accomplishments helps bring a holistic approach to her design work.

Of course, probably her most practical expertise for designing kitchens comes from her love of cooking. Whether it's an elegant five-course meal, school treats for the kids, or hot soup on a cold day, you can find Karen in her kitchen, using her kitchen. She knows how a kitchen functions, what works and what doesn't. Many of these things are common sense, others or not. And that's where she comes in.

Your kitchen should inspire and delight your senses and Karen Ray is the design expert that can get you there, for a kitchen exactly as you always pictured it. Bull Valley Kitchens has been a member of the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) since 2005 and remains involved in member activities and educational advancement opportunities. Bull Valley Kitchens is also actively involved in the community, sponsoring many charitable events and a member of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce.