A Southern California native, Heather studied Business Administration at Cal State University Long Beach before completing her design education at The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM with a degree in Interior Design. After gaining experience working on some high-profile projects, Heather ventured out on her own and in 2004 founded Kirk Riley Design.

Specializing in vintage residential renovations, Heather strives for the long life of remodeled spaces and uses color, pattern and a creative mix of materials to create award-winning designs. Heather has remodeled homes in and around Seattle, the Puget Sound region, and Southern California. Her work has been featured in magazines and television, both locally and nationally.

A self proclaimed Design Nerd, Heather's love of design has extended to her West Seattle 1940's cottage-style home where she lives with her family, including her beloved rescue mutts.