Celebrating Women in Business: Meet Designer Lauren Feurich

At Drury Design, being a woman-owned business since 1987 is part of who we are. As we continue to celebrate Women in Business Month, we’re excited to shine a light on the incredibly talented women behind our designs. This week, we’re thrilled to introduce you to one of our newer designers, Lauren Feurich. 

Lauren’s approach blends creativity with genuine care, focusing on thoughtful designs and strong relationships with her clients. We recently had a conversation with her about her design experiences and what it means to be part of a woman-led firm.

What does working for a woman-owned business mean to you?

I think it’s awesome. Founder Gail Drury built such a strong, steady and dependable business. Gladys Schanstra is doing a tremendous job honoring that tradition while bringing new design perspectives to the table. Having the strong name that Drury Design does, and having it be backed by women owners, is something to be proud of. 

What excites you most about starting a new project?

A design finally starts to come alive after the rough stage meetings and the preliminary materials are pulled. You can see clients’ eyes light up as the vision becomes clearer – that’s such an exciting moment for me. It’s one thing to talk about ideas and concepts, but when those ideas start to materialize into something tangible – when the client sees the direction we’re heading – it becomes real for them. They start to get really excited about their new space, and that energy is infectious. That shared enthusiasm and anticipation is absolutely my favorite part of the entire process!

Lauren’s kitchen design showcases one of today’s leading trends – a hidden pantry or scullery – blending practical storage with a sleek, upscale touch.

How do you balance client needs with your creative vision?

I always like to take a few things into consideration when working with clients, especially their personality and their home’s style. Whether they know what they want or not, we collaborate to find their personal design direction.

What’s a small design change that can have a big impact in a home?

Lighting! It’s often underestimated, but whether it’s adding a new fixture or simply switching out a bulb to get the correct color temperature for the space, lighting can truly transform a room. The right lighting not only enhances the aesthetic but can change the entire mood of a space. It’s not just about brightness – it’s about creating the right ambiance, highlighting design elements, and making a room feel warm and inviting. Natural light is wonderful, but layering in task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting can make a space functional and beautiful at the same time. It’s a small change with a huge impact.

This main floor remodel project was the first project Lauren assisted on here at Drury Design with Designer Samantha Schoell.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the design field?

Don’t be intimidated by the thought of men ruling the construction field. We as women have a lot to offer, and every talent deserves to shine.

What’s a hidden gem of a design feature that you love incorporating into projects?

I absolutely love incorporating a client’s favorite color into the design in unexpected ways. It’s such a personal touch that can make a space feel instantly more intimate and connected to the individual. Whether it’s through accent pieces, cabinetry, or even subtle undertones in materials, it’s a great way to weave personality into the space without being overpowering. When a client sees those familiar shades in their home, it creates this emotional connection, a sense of ownership. I think it’s so important to see pieces of yourself in your space—it transforms a house into a home.

What’s one of the most fulfilling aspects of working for a woman-led company?

I am incredibly grateful that many of my coworkers have become like big sisters and best friends to me. There’s a unique bond we share – beyond just being colleagues, we genuinely support and uplift one another. It’s an environment where we encourage each other’s growth, both personally and professionally, which creates a positive, empowering atmosphere. Knowing that I’m surrounded by talented women who are just as invested in my success as I am in theirs is truly inspiring.

A fresh take on transitional design – this rendering showcases sleek black modern accents, light cabinetry, and a stunning custom hood. Lauren’s vision balances timeless elegance with contemporary touches.

Do you think there’s a unique perspective women bring to design? How do you apply that in your work?

It’s a common observation that women often spend a significant amount of time in spaces like the kitchen. We clean, cook, and gather there more than in any other area of the home. This hands-on experience gives us valuable insights into how to optimize and organize these spaces. We understand the practical needs for functionality, storage, and flow, allowing us to create designs that truly enhance everyday living. By considering how we use these areas, we can craft spaces that not only look beautiful but also serve our clients’ needs.

How do you help clients discover their own personal style?
Every client has a unique view on design. Some know exactly what they want, while others need help discovering their style. I consider a few key factors, like their personality, which often shows in their clothing and home decor. By observing these elements and talking about their preferences, we can go through inspiration photos and choose samples that fit. This teamwork helps us find a style direction that reflects who they are.

Lauren helped design the layout of this bathroom to include ample sink space and storage, a get-ready makeup vanity, and perfect ambient lighting.

How do you unwind or find creative inspiration outside of design?

In the design industry, I find it hard not to notice the details that make a difference – everything from subtle accents to striking focal points. Each element contributes to the overall atmosphere of a space. When inspiration strikes and I am out and about, I take notes on unique color schemes or innovative materials, creating a valuable resource to draw from for future projects. This practice keeps my creativity sharp and my ideas flowing.

Lauren’s connection to her team is a huge part of why she enjoys working at Drury Design. The sense of community and collaboration is a hallmark of the firm, and it’s something she truly values as she continues to grow in her career.