Interior Design

is about enhancing people’s lives

"A home should provide a glimpse into the owners’ psyche"

Leo Designs, Ltd., a full service design firm specializing in residential interiors, was founded almost two decades ago by two Chicago residents, Georgeann Rivas and Stephanie Wirth. Their ability to work closely with clients and hone in on their desired aesthetic allows Leo Designs to create varied and refreshingly original spaces. The unifying thread in each project is their unwavering attention to detail.

From the onset of each project to completion, no design element is neglected. “Naturally, we devote a considerable amount of time to interior architecture. What distinguishes us is the attention we give to the finishing touches and the layering of accessories which we feel give the home soul,” says Rivas.

After all, Leo Designs believes that a home should provide a glimpse into the owners’ psyche by showcasing their personal style. Consequently, the firm’s aesthetic is as varied as its clientele. Both agree that the most gratifying part is exceeding their clients’ expectations. “Interior design is about enhancing people’s lives,” says Wirth, “and that really is our primary goal.”

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Stephanie Wirth

Principal & Co-Founder

Stephanie Wirth has been one of the principals and driving force behind Leo Designs for over 18 years. Her attention to detail and ability to capture her client’s vision while adding a fresh perspective are just some of her many strengths. By combining design elements from vintage to contemporary, Stephanie seamlessly creates the unexpected while maintaining a sense of timelessness.

Growing up in Europe instilled a deep and rich appreciation for art, fashion and design. While living in Vienna, she accompanied her artistic mother to antique shows and auction houses which continually exposed her to the grandeur and breadth of European art and design. Those roots have formed the designer she is today. "I’m passionate about design and I truly believe a beautiful, well designed home will transform your life."

The work of Leo Designs has been featured in such publications as CS Interiors, Chicago Tribune, Living Etc, Chicago Home & Garden, Martha Stewart Living and Luxe Magazine

Georgeann Rivas

Principal & Co-Founder

A warm and detail oriented designer, Georgeann Rivas is known for creating timeless, classic interiors in a wide range of styles. Her work has been featured in multiple publications, as well as having garnered the covers of Luxe Interiors and Design and CS Interiors. Georgeann currently leads multiple residential projects in the Chicago area, as well as an equestrian estate in Denver, a water front home in Florida and many vacation homes in Michigan and Indiana. She prides herself on not having a signature look but believes there is a common thread that runs through every project: a sense of serenity and timelessness.

Georgeann’s love of all things design began early. As a young girl she accompanied her artist mother to antique stores and art galleries. To this day, most of Georgeann’s weekends are spent going to vintage flea markets, estate sales, and antiquing. “I feel very fortunate that my passions aligned with what I do for a living. I am lucky to get to do what I love…to help create functional, beautiful spaces for people brings me joy.”

OUR TEAM

Rory Shaughnessy

Design Director

Rory joined the Leo Designs team as Design Director in early 2024, bringing over 18 years of experience in high-end residential design, with a particular focus on luxury kitchens and baths developed through her years at de Giulio Kitchen Design. During her time there, Rory managed intricate, large-scale projects across the U.S., from Aspen to Maui, and even as far as Guam. Her meticulous approach to custom cabinetry, countertops, and hardware selection set the foundation for her signature style blending functionality and timeless appeal, tailored to each client’s unique vision.

Before joining Leo Designs, Rory also served as a Senior Designer at Lecate/Leslie Schofield Studio and Frank Ponterio Interior Design, where she led large-scale projects and further refined her expertise in custom millwork, architectural drafting, and historic preservation. Guided by the belief that each project should be a reflection of its owner, Rory crafts spaces that are both beautiful and personal.

Raised in Mequon, Wisconsin, Rory embodies Midwestern warmth and authenticity. When she’s away from the studio, you’ll find her savoring a good book, experimenting in the kitchen, or cheering on her beloved Green Bay Packers. Her commitment to her craft ensures every client receives a space they’re proud to call home.

Olivia Huffman

Senior Designer

Liv grew up in St Louis, Missouri, surrounded by the clean lines and nature-infused designs of her family’s Mid-Century Modern home. There began her love for architecture and interiors, as well as the singular beauty of one-of-a-kind, vintage and antique pieces. After graduating from The University of Missouri-Columbia in 2019, Liv left St. Louis for Chicago, and joined Leo Designs.

Liv’s experience and expertise in social media and design has enriched the ways we share the design process with our clients, and has shaped the ways we share those design processes with our growing Leo Designs community in digital spaces. Offline, Liv’s talent for sourcing unique vintage furnishings and lighting has made her a vital part of our creative process. Outside of the studio, she finds joy in antiquing and curating timeless pieces for her own space, bringing her love for history and design into every aspect of her work.

Daniela Blanco

Designer

Dany’s journey into the world of architecture and design began in the culturally vibrant city of San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Growing up amidst rich architectural landscapes ignited a lifelong passion, which Dany pursued academically in both Mexico and Seville, ultimately graduating in 2022 with a degree in Architecture. This milestone set the stage for Dany’s next adventure: moving to Chicago to join the team at Leo Designs.

Now an essential part of Leo Designs, Dany bridges cultures and projects across Mexico and the United States, leveraging bilingual skills to foster smooth communication and collaboration. This role allows Dany to bring a uniquely Mexican perspective to every project, skillfully weaving cultural richness and innovative design into spaces that not only captivate clients and their guests, but function beautifully.

Inspired by the dynamic cityscape of Chicago, Dany constantly seeks to learn and grow, drawing inspiration from the city’s architecture and cultural diversity. Beyond design, Dany loves to explore the outdoors, savor Chicago’s culinary gems, and stay engaged with the community.

Natalie Braverman

Designer

A true Chicago native, Natalie’s journey with Leo Designs began in 2018 as an intern and evolved into a pivotal role as a designer in 2023. Natalie’s roots are in Old Town, and after earning her degree in Communications from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, her path led her back to the city, and into a creative career where craftsmanship and collaboration define her approach.

Natalie has a natural ease in managing the complexity of each project, guiding them seamlessly from concept to completion. Often found on-site, she works closely with contractors and subcontractors, ensuring every detail speaks to the client’s vision and runs smoothly. As she puts it: “My favorite part about working at Leo Designs is getting to be creative every day—whether working with materials, palettes, spatial planning, or discovering solutions to unexpected challenges.”

Lily Allspaugh

Junior Designer

From a young age, Lily’s creative spirit flourished through her study of classical ballet, songwriting, and the visual arts. In 2021, she graduated with First Class honors in English Literature at the University of Glasgow, while also engaging in the city’s vibrant arts scene. During her time in the UK Lily also studied and practiced textile arts at the renowned Glasgow School of Art. Alongside her degree studies, she completed a Fine Art Foundation at UCL’s Slade School in London, where she received formal training in color theory. Her foundation in color theory has become an essential tool in her work with Leo Designs, where she ensures that the use of color enhances mood, creates balance, and highlights each client’s unique character.

Following her deep artistic training, Lily began her professional career at Restoration Hardware on Chicago’s Gold Coast, where her passion for interior design took root. In less than ten months on the visual team, she was promoted to a design role where she learned and practiced the fundamentals that inform her work today. Drawing on her diverse international background and multidisciplinary skills, Lily creates designs that are both deeply personal and thoughtfully tailored to each client’s lifestyle, values, and personality.

Jeremy Lee

Design Assistant

Jeremy joined the Leo Designs team in January 2022, transitioning from the advertising industry to pursue a long-held passion for interior design. A University of Missouri graduate and Wilmette native, he returned to Chicago with an eye already trained on the city’s celebrated architecture. “The Aqua building by Jeanne Gang and the Tribune Tower are my favorites, each entirely distinct yet emblematic of the incredible range of design Chicago has to offer.”

At Leo Designs, Jeremy is our go-to problem solver and team collaborator—a “Renaissance Man” known for stepping in wherever needed. From client communications to project expediting, he ensures that no detail is overlooked. His favorite aspect of the role? “The collaboration—taking on challenges as a team makes every project more meaningful.”

Outside of work, Jeremy immerses himself in the city’s culture, exploring Chicago’s culinary scene, thrifting in unique neighborhoods, and seeking out live music. With his deep appreciation for architecture and creative eye, he brings a dynamic perspective to every space he helps shape.

Jenifer Coletta

Accountant & Office Manager

A 1983 University of Alabama graduate, Jenifer brings over 30 years of experience to her role. An accounting professional with vast experience in both for-profit and non-profit organizations, she oversees the management of our financial operations and maintains close relationships with our clients and vendors.

Her personal style, strategic thinking and razor-sharp focus are just a few of her invaluable traits. Jenifer is the mother of two as well as the wife of the Executive Chef and co-founder of Quartino Ristorante in Chicago.

The Office

Leo Designs
4011 N Ravenswood Avenue, Suite 103
Chicago, IL 60613

For project inquiries email
info@LeoDesignsChicago.com
T 872.829.3172