Elizabeth Leahy, AKBD, ASID Allied

I’m Elizabeth, principal designer at Leahy Interior Design. I love projects where I take a home from concept to completion, ensuring every part—from furniture placement to the final styling of accessories—aligns with my client’s vision. I’m especially excited when clients trust me to design spaces that make sense for modern living without losing an ounce of charm. This is where my expertise shines: creating timeless, character-rich spaces that honor a home’s history while making it feel like a sanctuary for today. 

I’m absolutely in my element bringing historic homes back to life with fresh, functional beauty! My heart beats for the soul of older homes—Craftsman, Tudors, and charming mid-century spaces—where every detail tells a story, and every update enhances that character. I aim to preserve the bones of these classic homes while creating a modern, livable design. 

Imagine walking into a 1911 Craftsman I’ve transformed: the layout now flows seamlessly, the light fills every corner, and material choice respects the homeowners' vision and the home's era while adding comfort and functionality. From the tiling and custom cabinetry in the kitchen to the unique, hand-selected fixtures and even the perfect drapes, my team and I oversee every last detail.

My journey into interior design began with a simple decision to enroll in a Decorative Arts class at San Diego Mesa College. What started as an exploration of creativity quickly became a passion and ultimately led me to pursue a degree in Interior Design.

After completing my education, I had the privilege of participating in the San Diego Historical Society Showcase House—not once, but twice. These distinctive opportunities allowed me to showcase my creativity and develop my ability to interpret a variety of architectural styles and design aesthetics.

I went on to take and pass two national design examinations, strengthening my expertise in critical areas such as space planning, building codes, and professional practice. Along the way, I became actively involved with other design professionals who share my commitment to advancing the interior design industry through education, examination, and experience.

Today, I am proud to serve as President of the NKBA San Diego Chapter, where I am dedicated to supporting our local design community, creating educational opportunities, and helping consumers understand the value of working with qualified kitchen and bath professionals. I previously served as Communications Director for ASID San Diego, where I focused on educating consumers and promoting the importance of professional design services.

My commitment to design has also been recognized through industry honors, including the 2024 NKBA San Diego Star Design Award for Best Other Room. Every project is an opportunity to combine creativity, functionality, and thoughtful design to create spaces that truly enhance the way people live.

I believe great design is more than creating a beautiful room—it is about listening, solving problems, and transforming a vision into a space that feels uniquely yours. I look forward to bringing that philosophy to every project and helping clients create spaces they will love for years to come.