French-inspired and with a dash of art deco, this heirloom-quality furniture collection by Maison Madeleine will reside comfortably in nearly any home. Leah Cumming has designed each piece of her collection with a balance of intricacy and minimalism that gives them a classic yet whimsical feel, inviting you to take a closer look and consider the story behind it. Leah shares her journey from interiors to furniture and the inspiration behind her collection—read on for the full conversation.

Take us back to the beginning! How did you get your start in the design industry?

After working in the marketing industry throughout my early twenties, I discovered my true passion was design. Through design, I saw an opportunity to create visual experiences that evoke emotional memories and feelings. This drove me to return to school at the Savannah College of Architecture and Design, where I studied interior architecture. I then moved to Los Angeles and began working for Nickey Kehoe. During my time at Nicky Kehoe, I received an education in design and essential real-world experience working in the industry. My bosses, Tod and Amy, became my mentors and inspiration, and played a pivotal role in shaping my design perspective. I continue to admire and look up to them in many ways and love to see the business they have built. After working for Nickey Kehoe, I worked for a number of other brands and design firms in Los Angeles such as Jenni Kayne Home and Soho House which eventually led me to start Maison Madeleine.

What led you down the path of crafting your first collection?

After dedicating six years to interior design, I discovered that the most gratifying aspect of my work was rooted in creating custom furniture. There is a deep fulfillment in transforming an idea into a tangible product, while collaborating with local artisans to source materials and craft each piece throughout the process. This passion for creating unique, timeless furniture is deeply tied to my upbringing, where I often explored Paris flea markets with my father. Beyond just the aesthetic, integrating beauty and functionality in furniture is also crucial to me. Inspired by this, I launched my initial collection with ten pieces, which has since expanded to thirteen, all meticulously handcrafted in Los Angeles. I am sincerely thankful for the skilled artisans who contribute their expertise, making it possible to bring these designs to life.

How would you describe your collection and the values of Maison Madeleine?

At Maison Madeleine, we firmly believe that furniture must be both beautiful and functional. Our brand is rooted in skilled craftsmanship and the highest quality materials, which is why we stand by our products being handmade in the US. Our attention to the most intricate details make each piece truly special. Our designs draw inspiration from iconic French styles with subtle nods to the art deco period. My vision was to create a collection that was traditional and timeless, yet could be used in a classic or contemporary setting. We want each Maison Madeleine piece to endure the test of time, becoming cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. It is critical that each piece brings an emotional impact to a space, curating a whimsical, yet classic feel. At the core, we want our pieces to be rustic, yet refined, playful, yet functional. 

Tell us about your years in Paris and the time you spent traveling in Asia! How did these experiences influence your work?

I was fortunate enough to live in Paris for three years and, thanks to my parents’ love for all things French, spent a considerable amount of time there throughout my upbringing. Immersing myself in French culture instilled in me a deep appreciation for well-crafted products and intricate design details. The city has had a wide-ranging influence on my designs, from beaux-arts to Haussmannian architecture, and the French appreciation for traditional trade skills and craftsmanship–an art that is unfortunately fading. After college, I spent time working and traveling in Asia, where I was profoundly inspired by the vibrant colors and rich culture. While my collection doesn’t explicitly embrace Asian stylistic choices, the practicality I observed in Asian design greatly informed my collection. I like to think of my pieces as a balance of intricacy and minimalism. I am particularly drawn to the concept of wabi-sabi. Embracing imperfections as something unique, special, and beautiful is a guiding principle in my work, adding a distinct touch to each creation.

Are you planning any exciting travel for 2024?

When it comes to travel, I tend to plan trips at the last minute. Although my crippling procrastination can be a little chaotic, I find this spontaneity adds a sense of excitement and adventure to my trips. While I am trying to work on planning trips in advance, my plans for 2024 have primarily revolved around attending weddings–lots of them. Fortunately, many of them are taking place in exciting locations such as Lucerne, Switzerland. Apart from the extensive traveling for weddings, I hope to find time to visit Bhutan or Tangier this year.

This may be an impossible question, but – do you have a personal favorite in the collection?

Each piece in my collection holds a sentimental place in my heart. However, the first piece I launched in the collection, the Seaside Shell Stool, was the central piece from which I built the rest of the collection. My inspiration in designing this piece drew from an old Venetian Grotto Stool, steeped in rich history. I loved transforming this old-world piece into a contemporary, yet completely unique, version of itself. Aside from my nostalgic connection to the Seaside Shell Stool, I am also particularly drawn to the Vosges Sofa, which is named after the square where I lived during my years in Paris. From my perspective, the sofa exudes a sophistication and charm that feels inviting as if it were in a grand salon where people gather over stories and share a glass of wine.

Like what you see? Take a peek at the talent behind the story… Interiors & Furniture Design: Maison Madeleine, Inquire About Trade Pricing · Photography: Michael Clifford and Kate Berry · Stylist: Kate Leonard