Street Style: Danielle Steele

January 27, 2023 Kara Hill

Danielle Steele is a force to be reckoned with. You are probably familiar with the famous author, but in this case, that’s not who I’m talking about. I’m talking about Danielle Steele, the lead designer at Marks-Woods, who is making a name for herself in the design world. Danielle has been recognized as a top designer by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, has won dozens of design awards from the Professional Remodeling Organization, and has provided her insight and expertise for numerous local and regional publications. Oh, and did I mention that Danielle hasn’t even turned thirty yet?

I met Danielle just over three years ago, and we immediately bonded over our mutual love of our alma mater, Virginia Tech (go Hokies!). At the time, Danielle had been with Marks-Woods for just over two years and was already well-respected at the firm. She was the only in-house designer at the time! Since I’ve known her, Danielle has grown and evolved. Now, she serves as our lead designer, managing more than 40 projects at a time, simultaneously.

As the lead designer at Marks-Woods, Danielle is one of the first people you will connect with when you start your design process. She’s the one that will take your inspirational photos and ideas, and turn them into the design of your dreams. Danielle has a unique ability to just “get” what you are saying, no matter how vague or specific you are. She’s going to go the extra mile to find that perfect light fixture or super cool tile that you can’t really describe, but you will know it when you see it. She’s going to sit with you and take the time to figure out what those finishes are. She has an eye for perfection and never gives up on an idea, especially if it means our clients are getting the design they’ve always wanted.

I’m proud to call Danielle a colleague and good friend. She’s talented, driven, and caring. She’s accomplished so much before the age of thirty, and I can’t wait to see what she’ll achieve five, 10, and 20 years from now. Watch out, Alexandria! The next time someone mentions the name Danielle Steele, it won’t be in reference to that famous author. They’ll be talking our Danielle Steele, the renowned designer.

Photography by Renée C. Gage Photography.

Danielle is styled by The Hive | The Shoe Hive.

ABOUT YOU

Neighborhood: Penrose, Arlington

What is your hometown? Winchester, Virginia

What would surprise people about you? That I was a punk-rock kid.

Favorite book or movie: Forrest Gump

Guilty Pleasure: Singing Taylor Swift at the top of my lungs.

Latest binge-watch: Better Call Saul

Bucket list travel destination: Greece

STYLE

Define your style in three words or less: Relaxed, approachable, and classic

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Cheetah-print mules

Favorite trend: High-waisted anything

Beauty product you can’t live without: Glossier Super Glow Serum

Boots, sneakers, or sandals? My Birkenstocks

WELLNESS

Go-to way to de-stress: Wine, a bath, and a face mask

Most fun way to stay active: Weekend walks with friends for coffee, or a visit to the farmer’s market.

Wellness goal: Prioritize mental health

Want to try: Goat yoga

Proudest wellness achievement: Biking over 10 miles a day in college as my main form of transportation.

HOME

Favorite room in your home: Living room

Antiques, modern, or a mix? A mix—I love a collected look.

Last item bought for your home: A planter to house all my plant children.

Favorite way to entertain: Drinks and charcuterie

Clutter-free or well-lived in? Clutter-free

Next planned purchase: A bar cart

ALEXANDRIA

What do you love about Alexandria Stylebook? I love that it highlights small, local businesses.