Exclusive: How Angela Harris Reimagined 101 Dalmatians in a California Home

Disney’s 101 Dalmatians provided the starting point for Melodia, a model home at Cotino in Rancho Mirage, California. Cotino is the first Storyliving by Disney community, a residential concept centered on Disney storytelling. TRIO partnered with Shea Homes on the interiors, with principal and CEO Angela Harris drawing from the film while keeping the home contemporary and livable.

Black and white appear throughout the home, from sculptural furniture and artwork to patterned surfaces and quieter finishes. Harris wanted the home to make a strong first impression while leaving smaller details to become more noticeable over time.

“We pulled from the film’s iconic black-and-white palette, playful sophistication, and sense of contrast, translating those elements into a home that feels elevated, unexpected and designed for real life.”

—Angela Harris, TRIO

The Dalmatians’ spots also informed the design. Harris was interested in how no two markings are alike, even though they work together as a recognizable pattern. In the office, she explored that idea through furniture, artwork, pattern, and texture.

“There’s a sense of play, but also restraint,” Harris said about the office design. “That became our approach throughout the home: we weren’t interested in recreating 101 Dalmatians; we wanted to capture its spirit.”

Cruella De Vil provided another reference point, with some of the home’s polished finishes and more dramatic details nodding to the character’s distinctive style.

Melodia also includes an open floor plan, gourmet kitchen, and indoor-outdoor living spaces designed for everyday living and entertaining. Harris carries the film’s influence into these spaces through details that draw from its characters and visual style without turning the home into an overt recreation of the movie.