Tell us about yourself & your company?
Andrea: I am the Owner and Creative Director of andreajae studio. We are a residential interior design firm that started about 1.5 years ago. We run the gammet of design for our clients – from curated hourly experiences to full service interior design. We are based in Port Moody, but have clients all over the lower mainland, and some internationally (ie: London, UK). We believe in transparency and have a 7 step design process that outlines a solid understanding of how we work. We take pride in designing meaningful spaces that are as much about aesthetic outcome as they are function.
How did you get into the residential construction industry?
Andrea: I have worked in the commercial design industry for over 11 years, mostly on large projects (think Museums, Science Centre’s, Universities and Community Centre’s). After such large projects, I decided to try out smaller ones during my second maternity leave and really loved being able to see the end of a project in months, rather than years! I was sold on the close relationship between designer and homeowner. Making people happy in the space they live in is just so rewarding.
What keeps you in the industry?
Andrea: Relationships + Design. I love being able to help clients bring their ideas to life. Being able to translate and filter their needs give me a sense of pride.
While navigating covid-19, what new opportunities have you discovered?
Andrea: That everyone is in the same boat. On the whole, everyone understands the compromises that need to be made and the alternative ways of working. I also discovered that you can design from afar – we completed a bathroom renovation and a kitchen design in London, UK!
It’s 11AM Saturday morning, what are you up to?
Andrea: Probably taking one of my children to a class!
What are your hobbies?
Andrea: Bike riding and yoga. When I used to have extra time on my hands, watercolor + acrylic painting, plus ceramics.
Proudest moment?
Andrea: Becoming a mother!
Best work perk at your job?
Andrea: Flexibility in being my own boss
What inspires you?
Andrea: Travel. Seeing how people live in different environments always makes for great design solutions. Although lately, with the lack of travel, Nature is my go to. I like to remind myself that there are so many colors, patterns + textures out there – we need not limit ourselves inside to boring ‘neutral’ palettes.
What are you excited for / looking forward to right now?
Andrea: Being able to grow andreajae studio by forming new relationships in the industry. I love seeing completed projects and being proud of the efforts of everyone involved.
Share an interesting fact about your life?
Andrea: I was featured in a Maple Leaf Hot Dog Commercial with my kids, that aired during the Superbowl.
Starbucks order?
Andrea: Chai Tea Latte – oat milk, 1/2 sweet
Song on repeat right now?
Andrea: Erykah Badu. Always loved her, always will.
Where were you born?
Andrea: Winnipeg, MB
Favourite holiday / destination?
Andrea: Europe. Especially Croatia…
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Andrea: I love salty and sweet together…so yes!
First concert?
Andrea: Embarrassingly, Bryan Adams! I was 12…
Last book read?
Andrea: Finding Dial. I love a true adventure story
Fun fact about you?
Andrea: I used to work for Nintendo. My 7 year old son never understands why I left…
What do you collect?
Andrea: eclectic drawer pulls. Niche, I know.
Netflix guilty pleasure?
Andrea: Narcos!
Andrea: instagram: @andreajae.studio linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaewanchyna/
