Located at 117 N. 4th Street in the Heart of Downtown Quincy, District Designs is more than just a shop—it’s a collaborative marketplace built on creativity, community, and connection. Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturdays from 8am to 4 pm, this ever-evolving space offers something new with every visit.
District Designs is home to more than 15 vendors, each bringing their own unique style and story to the space. From artists and florists to collectors and small business owners, the shop showcases an eclectic mix of new, gently used, vintage, antique, repurposed, and handmade items. Shoppers can browse everything from furniture and home décor to glassware, collectibles, custom clothing, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Owner Jeff Leech says the heart of District Designs lies in its people. “We truly operate as a vendor family. Our vendors pitch in time and/or money to staff and supply the shop—it’s a shared effort, and that’s what makes it special.”
That sense of collaboration has been part of the business from the beginning. What started as a vendor booth marketplace—open just a few weekends a month—quickly grew into something more as both customers and vendors wanted expanded hours and accessibility. “Ownership listened from the start,” Leech explains. “We evolved into a space where vendors support each other, even when they’re not on-site. That’s really when the family atmosphere was born—and we realized we genuinely enjoyed working together.”
Leech, who spent 35 years in the medical field before returning to the Midwest, saw District Designs as the perfect opportunity to tap into his creative side. “It has been my plan all along to get involved with a small business that allowed my creativity to show. The previous owners laid the foundation of a successful business—this business—and we’re proud to continue building on that.”
“If you believe in your product and surround yourself with the right people, then anything is possible.”
Jeff Leach, Owner/District Designs
Customer experience is at the forefront of everything they do. Every visitor is welcomed warmly and treated like a friend, whether they make a purchase or not. “We want our customers to feel like our friends,” says Leech. “We listen, and where possible, we make changes or compromises to meet their needs.”
In a time when rising costs impact everyone, District Designs is committed to keeping items affordable and accessible. “We recognize the high cost of living,” Leech shares. “People should be able to have nice things without having to break the bank or sacrifice other necessities. Our team is made up of people who care.”
As the business continues to grow—just over a year old—District Designs is expanding its offerings and partnerships, including a recent collaboration with Shut Your Piehole Cheesecakes out of New London, Iowa and Dave’s Coffee Cakes out of Rock Falls, Illinois. New vendors and products are continually being welcomed into the fold, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover.
With a loyal following—fondly known as “District Designers”—and a strong commitment to community, District Designs is a shining example of what can happen when creativity and collaboration come together.
“If you believe in your product and surround yourself with the right people,” Leech says, “then anything is possible.”
District Designs
117 N 4th St. Quincy, IL
(217) 231-6810
M,Tu,Th, F 9-5pm
Sat 8-4pm
(Closed Wednesdays)