5 Decorating Questions with LeeAnn Yare

LeeAnn Yare in her home, styling by LeeAnn & photography by Larnie Nicolson

Today I’m so pleased to have writer and interior stylist, LeeAnn Yare visiting to answer my 5 decorating questions. LeeAnn is much loved here in New Zealand and rightly so, she’s charming and approachable and where you go to keep up to date with what’s going on here and internationally. Earlier this year she opened Collected, an interior concept store with a mixture of high end and affordable design pieces, it’s bright and beautiful and very hard to not walk away with something, even if it’s just a little thing. She has also recently begun her own interior-decorating segment Friday mornings on TVNZ’s Good Morning program.

Over to you LeeAnn…

What is a beautiful home to you?

A home with soul. I love walking into a home and really feeling who lives there, regardless of their personal style.

Do you have a particular era in design that speaks to you the most?

I’m a big fan of mid century design, but in all honestly I love all sorts.  From pretty vintage floral paintings and mismatched china, to covetable mid century Scandinavian furniture, to modern design regardless of whether it’s recognized or simply a clever and affordable high street find.

If setting up house on a limited budget, what do you suggest to concentrate on so that it looks complete, but also with personality?

Paint and wallpaper. The biggest easiest and most affordable interior transformation is made with colour. Invest in items you’ll have for a long time, such as a great sofa or a quality rug, then get creative with the walls and accessories.

LeeAnn Yare’s office on cover of Urbis magazine. Styling by LeeAnn & photography by Larnie Nicolson

Any tips for people to follow the trends without being a victim to them?

I believe in doing what you love, regardless of trends, and if you stay true to that you’ll create your own personal style.  That’s not to say that trends won’t open your mind to something you may not have previously considered, use it as inspiration but execute in your own way.

Great style …

Is always achievable regardless of budget.

Thank you so much LeeAnn, it’s been great having you!

If you haven’t done so already, you should pop over to LeeAnn’s Facebook page which is just bursting with ideas and inspiration..

I’m heading on a little midweek break so I won’t have anything for you on Wednesday but will be back Friday – see you then and enjoy your week :)

Both images courtesy of LeeAnn Yare. Photography by Larnie Nicolson & styling by LeeAnn Yare.