Stylemaker Lee Ann Thornton

Bringing together style influences from cities as diverse as London and Los Angeles, the work of designer Lee Ann Thornton is an awe-inspiring blend of color, pattern and texture. Despite the sophistication of the spaces she creates, her goal is always to make a home feel comfortable and lived in. Her ability to achieve this delicate balance of form and function while still creating looks that are nothing short of stunning has made her a beloved and sought-after designer with rave reviews from a wide variety of prestigious publications including House Beautiful and Coastal Living and receive awards such as Connecticut Cottages and Garden 2015 Innovation in Design Award for Interior Design.

Photo by Francesco Lagnese

She also manages to find time to dedicate to the Decorator’s Club (an organization of professional women interior designs and industry executives in the New York area) as a board member. We caught up with Lee Ann to discuss her love of antiques, the era she can’t get enough of and her tips on mixing pattern and color for a show stopping room.

Photo by Francesco Lagnese

One of the striking elements of Lee Ann’s designs is the way she seamlessly blends styles to create a completely unique look for every space she touches. Her design aesthetic draws influence from the places she has lived, from London to Los Angeles as well as Connecticut. From her time in Los Angeles, she has been inspired by nature.

Photo by Karyn R Millet

In Connecticut, she loves the coastal New England charm: “warm inviting rooms, centered around the heart of the home – bringing people together…” and from London she adores “the English textiles, the countryside, overstuffed comfortable furniture with big floral patterns, and checks – all so inviting and comforting.”

Photo by Karyn R Millet

It is clear when seeing the homes she transforms that her favorite elements have come together to beautiful effect, so it will be exciting to see her upcoming tableware collection – perfect for pulling together a gorgeous and welcoming meal.

Photo by James Merrell

In addition to the beauty she finds in the environments around her, she is also inspired by many of the iconic designers to come out of the 1980s. “Sister Parish, Albert Hadley and Diamond Baratta were creating a lifestyle.” Looking at the work of these designers, “without even knowing it, I was formulating my future aesthetic.”

Photo by James Merrell

The outcome of her designs often involves eye-catching colors and masterfully mixed prints in a blend that feels effortless (though it most certainly is not created without serious talent and skill). “We find most clients are initially timid in mixing patterns but we feel our best results are when we take those bold initiatives. I also recommend taking advantage of all aspects of the room including painting a beautiful high gloss color on the ceiling which immediately elevates the design. No canvas wasted!”

301 Valley Road | Cos Cob | CT 06807
203.409.7245 | [email protected] | thelocalvault.com

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