Story by Micaela Arnett / August 22, 2024

After assisting this Summerville couple with the furnishings and accessories in their main living spaces, Iola Modern’s owner and principal designer Steven Ortego worked alongside his trusted supply partners to collaborate on the redesign of this once unfinished and unused space into a colorful and welcoming casita.

The homeowners envisioned the casita as a gathering place for family and friends, while also functioning as a guest suite with everything anyone might need to feel welcome and comfortable. “We incorporated a kitchenette, handicap accessible full bathroom, and a laundry room to service the open concept casita,” Steven says.

Specializing in daring designs that suit the everyday, Iola Modern provided an array of products from the West Montague showroom to complete the remodel with contemporary comfort and durability. Core elements like light fixtures, furniture, and accessories were hand-selected by Steven after having developed a close-knit relationship with the homeowners on previous projects. Because of his dedication to understanding his client’s wants and needs, he was able to select the items he knew this couple would adore.

The design is further emphasized through the use of striking color and material combinations that speak to the upbeat and vibrant scheme. Kelly Wearstler District Wallcoverings feel casually decadent with an elevated sense of artistry and uniqueness of scale. With a nod to Cubism, this hand-painted print features oversized geometric shapes in a rhythm of color and form. Sourced from Amsterdam, the wallcovering in the newly designed bathroom is one of the homeowner’s favorite elements.

Custom cabinetry by Mulberry Millworks creates functional storage for the kitchenette and bathroom with custom terrazzo countertops made from recycled glass by GlassEco Surfaces fabricated and installed by The Granite Guys. Steven adds, “We loved working with Elizabeth Fisher of EcoGlass Surfaces to create custom-blended countertops throughout the casita.”

Per the homeowner’s request, he introduced even more color into the space with vibrant paint shades by Farrow + Ball along with striking tile statements. The kitchenette boasts retro-style with Smeg appliances also sourced from Iola Modern. Sophisticated plumbing fixtures from Gateway Supply Co. allow these spaces to function with great style and practicality.

Above all, what sets Iola Modern apart from its competitors is Steven’s inherent posture of unique and modern design collaborations. Not only does his business provide clients with light fixtures, furniture, and accessories, but he also brings his vast knowledge of the design world to clients who want to take their style a bit further than the norm. 

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Photography by Ruta Smith

For more information call Iola Modern at (843) 225-5460 or visit iolamodern.com.