Create a custom Joomla 1.6 template for given layout

I have a graphical website design that I need converted into Joomla 1.6 template. Take a look at the attached image representing parts of the layout. In short, website has a fixed width of 1000px, on right and left of the content there is a map fading into background color (black or close enough). There is a graphical element at the top, menu bar under it and a content frame with one (or two, depending on module) columns underneath. Final layout design will be delivered once project is awarded.