Carol-Anne Leyden

Director and Co-founder, CA Design

Carol-Anne Leyden started off her interior design business in a recession, after a trip to Asia inspired her to start importing mid-century-style furniture. Two shops later, an e-commerce store and an interior design consultancy business, CA Design is going from strength to strength. “There are sometimes where it is really tough and you might overextend yourself a little bit and kind of panic,” she admits. “But then you have to push yourself forward. It’s not always plain sailing, but blood, sweat and tears are all part of having your own business.”

Last year, CA Design broke into the commercial sector, working with high profile clients like Cairn Homes and Brazil Associates Architects.

Finding the right mix of staff can be tricky in any industry, but Carol-Anne has surrounded herself with a solid and talented team. “A couple of my girls are both, by complete coincidence, ex-Penneys. They’re interior designers and came from there with a strong work ethic. A lot of the colleges I go to, too, and I have older, more experienced people as well. I’m in a good place at the moment with my team.”

With the benefit of hindsight, Carol-Anne believes she wouldn’t worry so much if she were starting out again. “I wouldn’t stress too much because what will be will be. I worked so hard, and probably sacrificed a lot at the beginning, working through the night, but I think everyone’s starting out story is tough.”

She’s met great mentors along the way, including her aunt and father. “Both my parents are entrepreneurs, and I suppose I’ve developed my work ethic from seeing them growing up, working so hard.” Having opened a design studio in Portobello in the last six months, Carol-Anne is delighted with her new base, from where she intends to expand further into the commercial sector.