distinctly designed

For A Beautifully Functional Home

Nothing like being stuck at home over the last several weeks to make one really take a look at their surroundings. Not only are we thinking about all of those updates we have been wanting to make, but more importantly, this time has many considering how their own personal environment is functioning for them as well.

Designer Andrea (Drea) Coleman, of Distinctions by Drea, has always believed that design should not only be beautiful, it should be highly functional with an emphasis on reflecting the personal style of every homeowner. For the past several years, Distinctions by Drea has operated in Fargo, Grand Forks and the lakes region, assisting clients in meeting their personal goals for their homes.

Although Distinctions by Drea has always been known for assisting clients with color selection, home furnishings, space planning and accessories, the business expanded when Coleman became the exclusive designer for Kitchen Refresh in the area. This collaboration allowed for Distinctions by Drea to not only assist in kitchen design, but it eventually grew to encompass full-scale remodeling projects. Current functional trends Coleman has been focusing attention on as of late are the installation of beautiful walk-in showers, cozy gathering spaces and kitchen updating. Although help in these specific areas is predominantly being requested, Coleman still loves to help clients with all aspects of their home. Sometimes clients need someone to simply help them pick out the best flooring to coordinate in their home, to assist in choosing counter tops, or help them find which organizational features will make their home environments more efficient.

Coleman has always felt that great design doesn’t need to break the bank. Unfortunately, many people overlook the financial advantage of having a designer assist in a home project, thinking they can’t afford the services. Not only does a designer help clients navigate through a project, maintain overall budget goals,

Without and offer creative alternatives to customize the design to their client’s own personal style and budget, but they also help clients avoid costly mistakes. One of the first things Coleman does when meeting with a client is discuss their goals in their home, then offer an estimate on her time to complete the various elements. Once this is done, the plan is created for the client. The great part about the plan is that it never has to be done all at once, and it can be tackled over time. “I have clients call me once a year to move on to the next project on their list, and I love it,” says Coleman. More often than not, clients love having a goal to work toward in their home because it eliminates the stress of not knowing what steps to take, and in what order those elements need to happen.

“I always smile and shake my head when clients tell me they don’t have a style,” says Coleman. “We are all creatures of habit and tend to make similar unconscious choices all the time in our homes because they make us feel comfortable. Everyone has a style, and one of the best parts of working with a client is when I see everything click for them, and once one area is functioning well for them, they are able to move forward with confidence about making selections for their home.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit distinctionsbydrea.com.