We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Courtney Otte. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Courtney below.

Alright, Courtney thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard

One of the key ways The Modern Hive diverges from the industry standard is in how we approach design through a completely comprehensive and deeply personalized lens, especially in new builds and remodels.

While many firms or drafting services focus solely on space planning or surface-level selections, we treat each project like a living, breathing experience tailored to the people who will live there. From custom cabinetry details to architectural millwork, tile layouts, lighting plans, and full furniture integration, we don’t just decorate, we design every detail with long-term functionality and aesthetic cohesion in mind.

A great example of this was a recent remodel project where a client initially worked with a drafting company to lay out their home, thinking they had all they needed. When they brought us in, we uncovered inefficiencies in the layout that didn’t align with their lifestyle; awkward traffic patterns, missed opportunities for built-in storage, and lighting that didn’t enhance the space. Our rework not only optimized the layout, but also introduced design moments they never thought possible, including a sculptural staircase nook, a furniture plan that created visual balance, and lighting that completely transformed how the space felt. They later told us it was the difference between a house they liked and a home they loved.

Another key differentiator is that we don’t layer in aesthetics after the fact, we lead with vision. Our clients receive a fully developed, intentional design plan before construction or furnishing ever begins. That may not be the industry norm, but it saves our clients time, money, and regret. It ensures every decision has a reason, and every element is in harmony.

Finally, we operate with the mindset that design is not one-size-fits-all. As a small business, we’ve built deep, lasting relationships with our clients because they feel seen, heard, and truly taken care of, not just “serviced.”

Courtney, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Courtney Otte, and I’m the founder and CEO of The Modern Hive Interior Design Studio based in Omaha, Nebraska. I started the business in 2012 at the age of 22, working from a small home office with a vision to build a design studio that prioritized both creativity and strategy. With a background in journalism and a formal education in interior design, I built The Modern Hive slowly and intentionally; investing only when it aligned with long-term growth, much like how we advise our clients to build their homes.

Today, The Modern Hive is a full-service luxury interior design firm specializing in new construction, large-scale remodels, and turn-key furnishing projects. We’re known for our comprehensive design plans that address everything from interior architecture to furnishings, all tailored to the way our clients live.

What sets us apart is our process. We don’t just select pretty things, we design with a purpose. Every project starts with a fully thought-out plan, ensuring aesthetic cohesion, functional flow, and a smooth execution from concept to completion. We solve the overwhelm and guesswork that many homeowners experience by providing clear vision, direction, and advocacy throughout the process.

What I’m most proud of is the trust our clients place in us and the results we deliver. We’ve been honored with industry awards, but the real reward is hearing clients say, “This finally feels like home.”

If you’re looking for thoughtful, elevated design that’s grounded in strategy and personal connection, that’s exactly what we’re here to create.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I bootstrapped nearly everything in the early years. I didn’t have outside capital or investors—I simply started with what I had and wore every hat myself. I built my own website, handled my own accounting, marketed the business, created graphics, wrote SOPs, and took on any role that needed to be filled.

Rather than trying to scale quickly, I focused on growing intentionally. I started with smaller projects, refining my process and building client trust. Over time, those evolved into larger, more profitable projects, which allowed me to reinvest back into the business. Every step was calculated and aligned with the long-term vision I had for The Modern Hive. Looking back, that slow and steady growth is what gave the business such a solid foundation.

Any advice for managing a team?

My biggest piece of advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale is to lead with trust, empathy, and flexibility. At The Modern Hive, we operate like a small, close-knit family. We care about each other as people first, not just as coworkers. If someone needs to leave early or take a day off, there’s no interrogation, just trust that the work will get done.

I believe when you treat your team with respect and give them the flexibility to manage their own time, they feel more empowered, valued, and committed. We also prioritize clear communication, celebrate wins, big and small, and make sure everyone feels seen and supported. That kind of culture doesn’t just keep morale high, it also leads to better work and a more connected team overall.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.themodern-hive.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themodernhive/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheModernHive
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themodernhive/

Image Credits

Carlee McKee Creative, Mandy McGregor Photography, Mitera Branding