Kayla Lake Portfolio

Web DevelopmentWordPressUI/UX Design
Kayla Lake Portfolio Website

Overview

I developed a modern portfolio site for Kayla Lake with advanced CMS capabilities, enabling her to showcase her work and manage content efficiently. The project focused on creating a visually appealing design while implementing robust backend functionality.

Website Development

The portfolio was built with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality:

  • Created a custom WordPress theme tailored to the client's specific needs
  • Implemented responsive design ensuring optimal viewing across all devices
  • Developed custom post types for portfolio items with advanced filtering
  • Integrated performance optimization techniques for fast page loading

Design Process

The design process was collaborative and iterative:

  • Conducted detailed client interviews to understand her aesthetic preferences and functional requirements
  • Created wireframes and mockups for client approval before implementation
  • Developed a custom color scheme and typography system aligned with her personal brand
  • Established visual hierarchy principles to highlight important content

CMS Implementation

A key aspect of this project was creating an intuitive content management system:

  • Customized the WordPress admin interface for ease of use
  • Built custom fields and templates for portfolio showcase items
  • Implemented automated image optimization and resizing
  • Created detailed documentation and provided client training

Project Details

Timeline

4 weeks from concept to launch

Key Metrics

  • 40% increase in client inquiries
  • 95/100 PageSpeed score

Technologies

  • WordPress
  • Advanced Custom Fields
  • SASS / CSS
  • JavaScript

Project Link

View Live Site

Results & Impact

The portfolio website delivered significant benefits for the client:

  • 40% increase in client inquiries within first 3 months
  • Significant improvement in site performance with 95/100 PageSpeed score
  • Streamlined content management allowing client to update portfolio independently
  • Enhanced brand presence online with modern, professional design

Key Learnings

  • Performance Optimization Techniques:

    Refined my approach to web performance optimization, learning advanced techniques for image handling, code splitting, and asset delivery that resulted in a 95/100 PageSpeed score.

  • CMS Implementation Best Practices:

    Developed a deeper understanding of how to structure content types and editorial workflows in a way that empowers clients to maintain their own websites without requiring technical knowledge.

  • Visual Storytelling Principles:

    Gained insights into how portfolio layout, spacing, and interactive elements can enhance visual storytelling, allowing creative work to be presented in a way that tells a cohesive narrative.

  • Client Communication Strategies:

    Refined my approach to gathering requirements from creative professionals, learning to translate artistic vision into technical specifications while maintaining the integrity of the client's personal style.