Before & After: Project Steele - Organic Modern Meets Cottage in Orange County
When our clients first contacted Strand Interiors, they had just purchased this Coto de Caza cottage from a “flipper” who had updated it using cheap finishes and a gray color palette - stripping away most of its charm. Our role was to highlight architectural strengths, create a family-friendly space, and infuse some much-needed personality back into the space.
Interior Design Goals for Project Steele
Incorporate a soft, neutral palette to create warmth, cohesion and visual flow
Use furniture to create zones and separation of spaces in an open concept
Play up architectural details such as beams and the large fireplace
Update the kitchen while keeping the majority of existing cabinets
A Refined, Family-Friendly Living Room
We reimagined the main living space with a low-profile sectional, keeping lines of sight in mind. The dual-sided fireplace is a natural focal-point, creating separation of spaces and serving as a visual anchor. To the fireplace we added an arch detail and soft plaster finish that ties in with the range hood in the kitchen.
Design tip: Mirroring the design of your fireplace and range hood is a great way to create cohesion in a home. Even if you’re not working with an open concept, repeating design elements creates continuity.
A Modern Dining Room That Feels Effortless
In the dining area, we introduced a clean-lined oak table paired with mixed chairs, a minimalist chandelier, and art from a local artist - elevating the space without overpowering it. A muted palette keeps the room feeling airy and open, perfect for both everyday meals and easy entertaining.
Creating Symmetry in the Kitchen
Would you remove a window to improve both form and function in your kitchen? For the clients at Project Steele, the answer was a resounding “YES.” We relocated the sink to the island, closed up the window, and did away with the mis-matched upper cabinets. In their place, we added a beautiful pair of oak cabinets in a rich stain that sit directly on the countertop - hiding small appliances while still keeping them within reach. The star of the show is the plaster range hood, with its soft curves and a tactile texture. The original white cabinets make the perfect backdrop for the beautiful quartzite countertop and aged brass hardware.
Entry Moments & Natural Transitions
From the dutch door to the breakfast nook, we focused on intentional transitions between spaces. Window treatments soften hard lines, wallpaper and art adds personality, and greenery and natural light play an intentional role in this Southern California cottage.
The Result: Livable, Light-Filled Interiors
Project Steele is a reminder that modern design can be warm, personal, and practical. The home now breathes easier - with muted tones, clean silhouettes, and a sense of harmony between spaces - it’s the perfect backdrop for this growing family.
Looking for an Interior Designer in Orange County?
At Strand Interiors, we specialize in creating interiors that evoke a sense of laidback luxury for everyday living. Whether you're refreshing a single room or redesigning your whole home, we design with real life in mind.
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