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A D V E R T I S I N G
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IN FLU EN T I A L WO M E N O F D ESIG N | PACIFIC NORTHWEST
MENTORING GREATNESS Kricken Yaker on the people that showed her the way… “Having been raised in a family of three girls, my parents always told us that we could do anything we set our minds to,” Yaker shares. “When I moved to New York post-college and was starting out in fashion and PR, a family friend took me under her wing and showed me how to stand strong in a room full of men. And when I relocated to L.A. a few years later, I worked for an amazing woman who taught me about grit and perseverance as I helped her grow her company.”
A WOMAN DEFINED
VANILLAWOOD 503.305.8830 | vanillawood.com |
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A collaborative approach and exceptional listening skills are integral to achieving great design. As the principal and co-founder of Vanillawood, Kricken Yaker works alongside her husband James to deliver something truly special to their clients. “We offer complete design-build, architecture and interior design
•W hat motivates you? My family. •D escribe your typical workday. There is no typical workday, which is a big part of why I love what I do. •W hat’s exciting you creatively? Our mix of residential and commercial projects that have vastly different aesthetics. Every project is a new opportunity to grow and stretch our knowledge and expertise as a team.
services, all under one roof,” she says. “This allows us to hold our clients’ hands through the entire process, from start to finish, and builds a tremendous amount of trust.” The concept for Vanillawood was born from Yaker’s own renovation experience. What started as flipping high-end spec houses quickly turned into client-driven, custom projects. “After sixteen years, watching each client’s reaction when they see our designs come to life is still pure joy.”
“The distinct honor of being asked to create someone’s home is never lost on us.”
Above A custom, built-in desk and dramatic wallpaper make this office/drop zone a great addition to the adjoining kitchen. Top A Gaetano Pesce foot sculpture and an original work by Ron Giusti tells visitors that the vibe of this family home is surprising and fun. Left Clean lines, ample hidden storage and an expansive five-foot sink makes this chef’s kitchen perfect for entertaining. Photography Above & Left by Josh Partee; Top by Luke Lozano