Leonora Birts Interior Design 

We are always in awe of those interior designers who have such a flair & talent to put together schemes which are elegant yet homely.  Leonora Birts is one such designer that we have admired from afar for some time and we are constantly inspired by her use of pattern and colour.  With a distinguished career already well established before she set off on her own fifteen years ago, Leonora has a brilliant eye when it comes to sourcing fabrics & furnishings and the finished article never fails to disappoint.  We recently had an opportunity to put a few questions to Leonora and hope you will enjoy the following Q&A and be inspired like us here at Pepper & Ink Home.  

What would be your best investment pieces for your home ?

I always think a beautiful painting that you love is always worth investing in or a unique piece of antique furniture.

What is your current colour combination obsession ?

I am loving dusty pink & olive green as a combination at the moment.  So many fabrics seem to work well with these colours.

What are the top three shops in your interior black book ?

Lorfords - they have a wonderful array of beautiful antiques along with a great bespoke furniture collection that I use a lot for clients.

Etalage - they always have such a great collection of antique oils & prints.

Samuel & Sons - I am always adding trimmings to everything and S&S is a go to for that.

What small luxuries do you love in your home ?

I always have a Dayelsford candle burning and lots of pelargoniums dotted around the house.

Best tip for styling your home ?

Cushions in as many places as you can and lamps on surfaces & in dark corners. Different levels of lighting I find so important.

Who is your interior design inspiration ?

John Fowler - I have a couple of his books at home and always go back to them for inspiration.

What is your favourite paint colour ?

Edward Bulmer and Cuisse de Nymphe

What is your favourite fabric ?

Colefax & Fowler, Bowood - A classic and one that I am always trying to get included in a scheme.

What is your favourite interiors shop ?

Penny Morrison - so many beautiful fabrics, lighting and accessories.  I always try and pop in when I am in London.

Last but not least, where do you like to escape when it comes to a holiday ?

We've been to some wonderful places in the past but Rock in Cornwall is always the favourite.  We've been for many years and it feels like a second home. 

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