Celebrating Women in Business: Meet Senior Designer Samantha Schoell

At Drury Design, our legacy as a woman-owned business since 1987 is a source of pride and inspiration. As we continue to honor the contributions of women in business, we’re excited to highlight Senior Designer Samantha Schoell. With an architectural degree and a passion for creating stunning spaces, Samantha brings a unique perspective to the design process.

Her approach is collaborative, and she thrives on transforming clients’ visions into reality. Here are some insights from our recent Q&A with Samantha, where she shares her thoughts on design, creativity and the significance of working in a woman-led environment:

What does working for a woman-owned business mean to you?
I love that Drury Design has been a woman-owned business since the beginning! Throughout my schooling, I often found myself in classes with mostly men. While that never discouraged me, it made me stronger. Stepping into my role at Drury and being surrounded by amazing, hardworking, and successful women is an indescribable feeling. It’s empowering to be part of a team that supports one another and breaks down traditional barriers.

What excites you most about starting a new project?
A new project means new design challenges! I love the creative freedom that comes with working with a client. The drawing board is a blank slate, and that’s when the creative juices really start to flow! The excitement of transforming a space into something the client will love for years to come is what makes my job so fulfilling. I strive to make the design journey fun and engaging for everyone involved.

This popular kitchen feature is here to stay! Samantha skillfully incorporated this beverage fridge into a space next to the dining area, enhancing both functionality and style.

What’s a design trend you think will stand the test of time?
I believe incorporating a beverage refrigerator into the kitchen or adjacent space is a trend everyone should follow! It provides a convenient place for bottled water, soda cans, or even adult beverages, freeing up space in the main refrigerator. This setup allows guests to grab their drinks easily, especially during parties, without crowding the kitchen workspace. Additionally, spa-like showers are becoming increasingly popular. Your primary bath can offer a five-star hotel experience with steam units, body sprays, and rain heads, making luxury accessible every day!

What’s a small design change that can have a big impact in a home?
One small change that can have a significant impact is the addition of a fresh coat of paint or new hardware. These simple updates can completely transform a space without the need for a full renovation. Additionally, thoughtful lighting choices can alter the mood of a room, making it feel more inviting and spacious.

Samantha and Drury Design owner/creative director Gladys Schanstra recently went to the Galley Workstation headquarters in Tulsa, OK, to check out the company’s latest innovative products.

How do you balance client needs with your creative vision?
When designing a space, I emphasize that it’s a collaborative process. Each client has a specific wish list and vision, and I aim to bring that to life while incorporating my insights on design and functionality. I use mood boards and colored 3D renderings to present my ideas, and we discuss the pros and cons of different design solutions together. As a designer, it’s my role to educate clients while also finding the right balance of function and aesthetic materials that showcase their style.

What’s your favorite material or finish you enjoy working with?
Quartzite is one of my favorite countertop materials! I am always in awe when browsing slabs and reminding clients that quartz and quartzite are different—quartz is man-made, while quartzite is a natural stone. The beauty in these stones is truly a work of art!

What’s one of the most fulfilling aspects of working for a woman-led company?
Working for a woman-led company allows me to contribute to an environment that breaks down traditional gender stereotypes. I find that Drury fosters a collaborative workspace where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and voicing opinions. It creates a dynamic atmosphere that encourages creativity and teamwork.

Do you think there’s a unique perspective women bring to design? How do you apply that in your work?
Absolutely! Female designers often bring a fresh perspective to the table. Women tend to have a more emotional connection to design, which can influence their eye for colors and materials. It’s been shown that color blindness is significantly more common in men than women, which is why I believe women should have a strong presence in the design industry. This unique viewpoint allows us to create cohesive designs that truly fit the client’s needs.

Samantha recently oversaw a townhome remodel in downtown Chicago, transforming an open layout that combines the living room, kitchen, and dining area. Her designs revitalized the space, providing each zone with a distinct character while enhancing the overall flow.

How do you unwind or find creative inspiration outside of design?
I’ve had a creative mind since I was young. I love spending weekends at museums, going to craft fairs, and exploring new places. Everyday outings inspire me, and I find that the more I expose myself to different art forms and cultures, the more ideas I can bring back to my design work.

Samantha’s insights reflect not only her expertise in design but also the empowering culture at Drury Design, where collaboration thrives. As we continue to celebrate women in business, we invite you to connect with Samantha and explore how her innovative vision can transform your space.

Stay tuned for more designer profiles as we showcase the incredible women of Drury Design!