Meet Elizabeth Leahy | Interior and Kitchen & Bath Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth Leahy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was never just about owning a company—it was about creating a career that aligned with my passion for design, relationships, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Throughout my career in the kitchen and bath industry, I discovered that the best projects are about so much more than beautiful spaces. They’re about listening to clients, understanding how they live, and designing environments that improve their everyday lives. I wanted the freedom to provide that level of personalized service while surrounding myself with talented professionals who shared the same commitment to quality and integrity.
Another driving force was my desire to give back to the industry that has given me so much. Serving in leadership with the NKBA San Diego Chapter has reinforced the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and building strong connections among designers, manufacturers, contractors, and showrooms. I believe our industry is strongest when we support one another, and that philosophy carries over into my business every day.
Starting my own business was certainly a leap of faith, but I believed that if I stayed true to my values, focused on building trust, and never stopped learning, success would follow. Every project is an opportunity to help a client realize their vision, and every challenge has helped me grow as both a business owner and a designer.
Looking back, the most rewarding part hasn’t been building a business—it’s been building lasting relationships, creating spaces that positively impact people’s lives, and helping elevate the kitchen and bath industry in San Diego through both my work and my involvement with NKBA. I feel incredibly fortunate to do work that inspires me every day while contributing to a community I’m proud to be part of.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business is built on one simple belief: great design starts with listening. Every client has a unique story, lifestyle, and vision, and I believe the best spaces are created when those elements become the foundation of the design. Whether it’s a kitchen renovation, a bathroom retreat, or a whole-home transformation, my goal is to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional, timeless, and deeply personal.
What sets me apart is the relationships I build. Design is an incredibly personal process, and I take the time to understand how my clients live, what inspires them, and what they hope to achieve. I don’t see projects as transactions—I see them as partnerships. I also value collaboration with architects, builders, contractors, artisans, and industry partners because the best results always come from a strong team working toward a shared vision.
I’m especially proud of my involvement with the NKBA San Diego Chapter. Serving in leadership has given me the opportunity to advocate for our industry, mentor emerging professionals, and create events that connect designers, manufacturers, and the community. One project I’m particularly excited about is our upcoming Kitchen & Bath Tour, which showcases exceptional residential design while celebrating the incredible talent and craftsmanship throughout San Diego. It’s rewarding to create opportunities that not only inspire homeowners but also support the professionals who make these projects possible.
Building my business certainly wasn’t easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced moments of uncertainty, difficult decisions, and unexpected challenges. There were times when I questioned whether I was making the right choices, but every obstacle taught me something valuable. I learned that resilience is just as important as creativity. Success doesn’t happen overnight—it comes from showing up consistently, continuing to learn, adapting to change, and never losing sight of your values.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that relationships are the foundation of every successful business. People remember how you make them feel. Trust, integrity, communication, and genuine care have opened more doors than any marketing strategy ever could. Those relationships—with clients, colleagues, vendors, and friends—have become the greatest source of both opportunity and fulfillment throughout my career.
If there’s one thing I want people to know about me and my brand, it’s that I genuinely care about the people behind every project. I’m not simply designing kitchens and bathrooms; I’m helping families create spaces where they’ll gather, celebrate milestones, and make lasting memories. That’s an incredible responsibility, and one I never take for granted.
At the end of the day, success isn’t measured by awards or completed projects. It’s measured by the trust clients place in me, the relationships that continue long after a project is finished, and the opportunity to make a positive impact—both through my business and through my work supporting the design community. If I can inspire others, elevate our profession, and leave every client with a home they truly love, then I consider that a successful career.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of the reasons I love living in San Diego is that there’s something for everyone. We have beautiful beaches, incredible architecture, amazing restaurants, world-class museums, and neighborhoods that each have their own unique personality. If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want them to experience all of it—not just the tourist attractions, but the places that make San Diego feel like home.
I’d start the trip with breakfast overlooking the ocean in La Jolla, followed by a walk along the coastline to watch the seals and sea lions. We’d spend the afternoon exploring the galleries and boutiques before ending the day with dinner and sunset by the water. There’s nothing quite like a San Diego sunset.
Another day would be dedicated to Balboa Park. It’s one of my favorite places because it combines history, architecture, gardens, museums, and creativity all in one location. We’d wander through the Spanish Colonial buildings, visit a museum or two, stop by the Japanese Friendship Garden, and enjoy lunch in the park. As someone who loves design, I’m constantly inspired by the craftsmanship and architectural details throughout Balboa Park.
Of course, Coronado would be on the itinerary. We’d spend the morning walking the beach, browse the shops along Orange Avenue, have lunch at one of the local restaurants, and finish with a stroll through the iconic Hotel del Coronado. It’s one of those places that captures the timeless charm of Southern California.
I’d also make sure we explored some of San Diego’s incredible neighborhoods. Kensington, South Park, and Little Italy are filled with unique homes, local businesses, coffee shops, and restaurants that showcase the city’s creativity and character. As someone in the design industry, I always enjoy noticing the architecture, historic renovations, and the way each neighborhood tells its own story.
Since I’m passionate about kitchen and bath design, I might even sneak in a visit to one of San Diego’s beautiful showrooms or a home tour if one happened to be taking place. I love sharing how thoughtful design can completely transform the way people live. It’s fun to see people’s reactions when they experience exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design firsthand.
For a little adventure, we’d take a harbor cruise or rent kayaks in La Jolla, followed by dinner overlooking the bay. Another evening would definitely include live music or an outdoor concert—San Diego has such a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes every night feel like a celebration.
And no visit would be complete without great food. One of my favorite things about San Diego is its diversity. From fresh seafood and authentic Mexican cuisine to Italian in Little Italy and neighborhood cafés tucked away throughout the city, every meal becomes part of the experience.
What I love most about San Diego isn’t just the scenery—it’s the people. It’s a city full of creative entrepreneurs, talented designers, artists, chefs, and makers who are passionate about what they do. That sense of community and collaboration is one of the reasons I’ve enjoyed building both my business and my involvement with the NKBA San Diego Chapter here. I truly believe San Diego is one of the best places to live, work, and be inspired, and I’d want any visitor to leave feeling exactly the same way.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There isn’t just one person I would recognize—my journey has been shaped by an incredible community of people who have encouraged, challenged, and inspired me along the way.
First and foremost, I have to thank my family. They’ve supported me through the long hours, the uncertainty that comes with owning a business, and the many demands of balancing work, volunteer leadership, and life. Their belief in me has given me the confidence to pursue opportunities that I may not have otherwise taken.
Professionally, I’m incredibly grateful to the members of the NKBA San Diego Chapter. Serving alongside such talented designers, industry partners, and volunteers has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. I’ve learned that the most successful people are those who are willing to share their knowledge, mentor others, and celebrate each other’s accomplishments. That spirit of collaboration has inspired me to give back whenever I can.
I’d also like to recognize the designers, builders, manufacturers, and showroom partners I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years. Every project is a team effort, and I’ve learned something from each collaboration. The kitchen and bath industry is filled with creative, generous professionals who genuinely want to see one another succeed.
Finally, I’d encourage anyone entering this industry to find a professional organization like NKBA. It’s much more than networking—it’s a community of people who are committed to education, mentorship, and raising the standards of our profession. Many of the opportunities I’ve had, the friendships I’ve built, and the lessons I’ve learned have come through those relationships.
Success is rarely the result of one person’s efforts. It’s built through the encouragement, trust, and generosity of many people, and I’m incredibly thankful to everyone who has been part of my journey.

Website: https://www.leahyinteriordesign.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethvleahy/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethleahyinteriordesign/

Twitter: https://x.com/LeahyInterior

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeahyInteriorDesign

Image Credits
Martin Mann – headshot
Rich Mino – interiors