Designer Spotlight: Gladys Schanstra

Clients often walk away from a project with Gladys Schanstra saying the same thing — she just got it. Whether it’s understanding how a family really lives day to day, or knowing when a design idea needs more edge (or more restraint), Gladys brings an intuitive sense of balance to her work. As Drury Design’s owner and creative director, she leads with equal parts experience and curiosity, helping clients create spaces that feel like home, only better.

We asked Gladys about what inspires her most, how she approaches complex projects, and her tips for designing spaces that truly reflect the people who live in them.

Q: What’s your approach to mixing timeless design with current trends?
A: I ask questions that get to the heart of what a client truly loves — not just what they’ve seen a lot of on Pinterest. If it’s a forever home, we lean more timeless. If they love a trend and want to enjoy it for the next few years? That’s fine, too. The key is making sure the design fits the person and the plan for the space.

Q: Is there a trend you’re excited about right now — and one you’re ready to leave behind?
A: I’m into unique countertop profiles right now — fluted, reeded, scalloped edges, even metal inlays. There’s a lot of cool innovation happening. As for what I’m ready to leave behind? “Matchy-matchy” everything. Clients shouldn’t be afraid to mix things up. A space should reflect personality, not just a showroom set.

Drury designers use computer renderings to help clients explore ideas and visualize the spaces they’re building or remodeling. This rendering shows a possible design for a client’s fun-zone concession stand — complete with candy displays and movie-night vibes.

Q: Tell us about a project you’re currently working on that has you excited.
A: One of them is a lower-level space aimed at fun and relaxation. Get this – it’ll have an art-deco-inspired theater, a poker room, a golf simulator, a full bar, and even a concession stand. It’s totally custom and incredibly fun!

Imagine enjoying a meal in this gorgeous “front” kitchen” built for daily use and entertaining guests.

Another project I’m excited about is what my client calls her “spice kitchen” — which is really two kitchens. We’re designing the “front kitchen,” so to speak, for daily meals and entertaining. 

This second kitchen is just behind the front kitchen. Out of the way and built for handling large food-focused gatherings, the homeowner has plenty of room to operate in what is truly her dream foodie prep and cooking space. Note the easily accessible bulk spice storage.

Opposite view of the back kitchen. Instead of the all-stainless look often favored by serious home chefs, Gladys’ client opted for materials and finishes that feel elegant, warm, and inviting.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of being both a designer and a business owner?
A: As a designer, nothing beats seeing a finished space come to life and watching clients use it in ways that enhance their daily lives. That’s the best feeling. As an owner, I really value helping people grow. Watching someone tackle a challenge, learn something new, and elevate their role — that’s incredibly fulfilling. I also enjoy putting the right people in the right roles to build strong, creative teams.

Q: What’s a piece of wisdom from Drury Design’s founder, Gail Drury, that still guides your work today?
A: “Never give a feature without a benefit.” That stuck with me. Clients are constantly weighing design choices — materials, layouts, finishes. It’s our job to help them understand why a certain option might work better for them. We don’t just design for beauty’s sake — we want every choice to serve a purpose.

Comfort is a hallmark of Gladys’ work, a standout quality often overlooked in modern design. “My goal is for my clients to love their spaces,’ Gladys says. ‘When beauty and true comfort define a space, that’s the sweet spot I strive for!”

Q: What’s one design detail or innovation you’re especially proud of lately?
A: The Ketra lighting we installed in our showroom. It mimics natural daylight and changes throughout the day as the intensity and color temperature of the sun changes. It’s amazing, really — a true paradigm shift in how we think about the light in our homes and how that makes us feel. In fact, it taught me that I had grown accustomed to the extremely limited functionality of typical lighting. Once you see our demo in our showroom, you’ll see everything differently — literally! You realize how good it feels. It brings the outside in and completely changes the mood of a space.

Q: What’s your favorite part about designing in the Chicago and Glen Ellyn area?
A: People here really appreciate good design and invest in their homes. There’s a respect for architecture and craftsmanship that makes it a pleasure to work in this region.

Q: If you could design a kitchen for any historical figure, who would it be?
A: Jackie Kennedy. She was stylish and sophisticated, but also understood tradition. I’d be fascinated to see what design choices she’d make.

Q: What advice would you give someone just starting out in design?
A: Be confident — and stay curious. Keep learning.

Interested in working with Gladys on your next project?
Email gladys@drurydesigns.com or call 630-446-7647 to schedule a complimentary consultation.