Leather is a style staple, as much at home in a modern loft as in a crumbling English country house. We get to the bottom of its universal appeal by taking note of some inspiring spaces. 


The home of Lucy Fenton from the Sept/Oct 2012 issue of Inside Out. Image – Felix Forest. Styling – Jason Grant.

The retro lines of the leather armchair tie in with the period fireplace and classical architecture and add weight to this quirky and playful space.  Tip – use leather as a neutral  in a room full of colour and pattern.


Stylist & blogger Emily Henderson's LA living room.

A vintage leather chair adds a masculine element to this light and pretty living room, and speaks of slouchy comfort. Tip – tone down leather with a colourful throw and delicate cushion.


A Spanish home by architect Tom Kundig. Image – Simon Watson for Architectural Digest 

Leather club chairs and a raw timber table add welcome warmth to a monumental double-sided hearth constructed from blackened steel. Tip – mix leather with other natural textures for a harmonious feel.


Paulistano chair by Bodie and Fou.

The whisky coloured leather of this 1957 design classic by Paulo Mendes da Rocha looks just right in the corner of an otherwise monochromatic room. Its rounded corners and curved seat contrast with the gallery of rectangular photos and art. Tip - avoid a clubby feel with clean lines and the most luxurious quality leather.


Image via Pinterest

The floral cushion, checked blanket and garden bloom speak of country comfort, while the repurposed side table has an industrial feel. Either way, the honesty and authenticity of distressed leather adds instant patina to the space. Tip - use leather to add a sense of history, especially if your space is lacking character.