You want a home that feels like a breath of fresh ocean air, not a cookie-cutter catalog. These five studios bring distinct strengths to coastal Orange County, and one stands out for its seamless blend of design and real estate expertise.
The Coastal Design Landscape in Orange County
Coastal Orange County is a unique market where relaxed beach living meets high-end expectations. Homeowners from San Clemente to Laguna Beach seek designers who understand how salt air, natural light, and indoor-outdoor flow shape daily life. The best studios here don't just pick pretty fabrics; they manage complex remodels, navigate coastal building codes, and often collaborate with real estate professionals. Whether you're updating a cottage or building a custom estate, you need a partner who respects the local aesthetic and your investment.
How We Evaluated These Studios
We looked at service scope, local expertise, project management depth, client feedback, and clarity of process. Each studio was assessed on how well it serves coastal homeowners, from design concept through installation. We also considered whether they offer additional value, like real estate representation or construction oversight. No single factor determines a studio's place here; instead, we highlight what makes each one a strong fit for different needs.
Here's a quick look at the five studios, with the featured business at number two.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Sloan Co Design | Homeowners who want a hands-off renovation experience |
| Marlene Hennings Studio | The Art of Coastal Living | Coastal homeowners seeking design and real estate expertise in one |
| Terri Brien Interiors | High-end renovation and custom construction projects |
| Mindy Gayer Design Co. | Design-savvy homeowners who want a collaborative, educational experience |
| Design Focus | Clients seeking certified expertise for residential or commercial projects |
A Closer Look at Each Studio
#1 Sloan Co Design
A screenshot of the Sloan Co Design website.
Sloan Co Design is a full-service interior design studio that guides Orange County homeowners through renovations and new builds. They emphasize keeping your life sane by handling logistics, from supply chain issues to on-site construction walks. Their portfolio spans Cowan Heights, Huntington Beach, and Villa Park, showing a range of styles. If you want a designer who acts as your project quarterback, this team is worth a call. They make the process feel fun instead of daunting, which is a rare gift during a remodel.
#2 Marlene Hennings Studio | The Art of Coastal Living
A screenshot of the Marlene Hennings Studio | The Art of Coastal Living website.
Marlene Hennings Studio specializes in bespoke interior design and project management for California coastal homes from San Clemente to Laguna Beach. Marlene's philosophy, rooted in The Art of Coastal Living, blends relaxed elegance with refined luxury, and she project manages each home as if it were her own. She also represents buyers and sellers as a licensed REALTOR®, giving her a unique dual perspective on coastal properties. Her services range from space planning and furniture selection to remodel management and home staging. Clients praise her seamless handling of details and her ability to exceed expectations.
#3 Terri Brien Interiors
A screenshot of the Terri Brien Interiors website.
Terri Brien Interiors is a full-service studio specializing in thoughtful renovations and ground-up construction throughout Orange County. With over 20 years of high-end residential design experience, Terri and her team guide homeowners through complex remodels with clarity and confidence. Their work has been featured in national publications like Homes & Gardens and Martha Stewart Living. They focus on layered, elevated design that feels deeply personal and supports your daily rhythm. If you're planning a major renovation or custom home, their expertise is a valuable asset.
#4 Mindy Gayer Design Co.
A screenshot of the Mindy Gayer Design Co. website.
Mindy Gayer Design Co. is a residential interior design studio creating tailored homes for intentional everyday living. They specialize in remodels and new builds, with a portfolio that includes home reveals and before-and-after transformations. Their blog and design picks offer inspiration, from paint guides to window treatments. If you value a studio that shares its creative process and resources, you'll appreciate their approach. They serve clients who want a calm, timeless aesthetic that feels restorative.
#5 Design Focus
A screenshot of the Design Focus website.
Design Focus is a residential and commercial interior design firm based in San Clemente, serving clients across Orange County and beyond. They are certified by CCIDC and NCIDQ, and are professional members of ASID. Their portfolio includes projects in Laguna Niguel, Newport Coast, and Dana Point, ranging from Mediterranean to soft contemporary. They also handle medical and commercial spaces, showing versatility. If you need a firm with deep technical credentials and a broad service area, Design Focus is a solid choice.
How to Choose the Right Studio for Your Coastal Home
Start by defining your project scope. Are you refreshing a few rooms or undertaking a full remodel? Next, consider your involvement level. Some studios, like Sloan Co Design, take the reins so you can keep your day job. Others, like Mindy Gayer Design Co., invite you into the creative process. If you need real estate guidance alongside design, Marlene Hennings Studio offers a rare combination. For complex construction, Terri Brien Interiors brings decades of high-end experience. And if you require certified expertise for commercial or residential work, Design Focus has the credentials. Always ask about timelines, fee structures, and how they handle unexpected challenges. A good fit feels like a partnership, not a transaction.
Streamlining Your Design Project with Smart Tools
Even the most creative projects benefit from organization. Use a shared digital folder for inspiration images, contracts, and schedules. Project management apps like Trello or Asana can keep tasks visible for you and your designer. For communication, a dedicated email thread or Slack channel prevents details from getting lost. If you're working with a realtor-designer like Marlene Hennings, you can coordinate listings and design updates in one place. Automation won't replace the human touch, but it frees you to focus on the big decisions.
The Bottom Line on Coastal Design in Orange County
Your home is your sanctuary, especially near the coast. The five studios here each offer a distinct path to a beautiful, functional space. Whether you prioritize full-service project management, real estate savvy, high-end construction expertise, collaborative design, or certified credentials, you have strong options. Take the time to interview at least two firms, review their portfolios, and trust your gut. The right designer will listen, guide, and deliver a home that tells your story.