With the Woman Wednesday series, CatMax Photography introduces you to exceptional female entrepreneurs who have gone through the CatMax Personal Branding Experience.
Today, we invite you to meet Leigh Nicholson, founder of Three 11 Interior Design. Her early interest in the emotional power of a well-designed space has evolved into a career marked by a commitment to delivering seamless, deeply personal luxury interior design experiences. Known for polished, timeless interiors balanced with current trends, the IIDA and Allied ASID member has grounded her Atlanta interior design firm in the belief that impactful design begins with a rich understanding of each client’s personality and lifestyle.
What inspired you to become an interior designer and open your own firm?
I have always been drawn to the way a space can completely change how people feel. Even as a child, I would rearrange rooms, experiment with color, and imagine how to make spaces more functional and beautiful. My experience working with clients has truly lit a fire for me. I don’t want to just execute someone’s vision; I want to create a design experience that is deeply personal, creative, and seamless from start to finish. Opening my own firm allows me to combine my love for design with my commitment to serving clients in a way that reflects their style, tells their story, and makes their everyday life better.
Can you tell us the backstory behind the name Three 11 Interior Design?
1 Corinthians 3:11 states, “For no one can lay a foundation other than what is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” In design, every beautiful space begins with a strong foundation—structurally, aesthetically, and in purpose. This verse reminds me that everything I create, and the way I run my business, is rooted in integrity, service, and a higher purpose. For me, the foundation is more than materials and plans; it’s faith, trust, and that every space can be designed to bring joy, comfort, and meaning.
We’d love to hear about one of your all-time favorite projects.
I’m currently working with a professional athlete to create entertainment spaces in their basement. What makes this project so special is that we are telling the client’s story. They have trusted me with full creative freedom, which allows me to layer in custom details, unique textures, and meaningful pieces that reflect their achievements and lifestyle.
What’s something you wish you had known sooner as an entrepreneur?
I wish I had known sooner that saying “no” is just as important as saying “yes!” Learning to set boundaries, trust my instincts, and protect my creative energy has made me a better designer and a stronger business owner.
Why did you think a branding photo shoot would be beneficial for your business?
Design is a visual business, and people connect with what they see and feel. Professional photos allow us to showcase not just our finished spaces, but our personality, process, and values. It helps the client to see the faces behind the work and builds trust before they ever meet us in person.
All images by CatMax Photography
Makeup by Theresa Stone Artistry
How was your shoot with CatMax Photography different from similar photo shoots you’ve done?
Catrina made everyone feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. It felt less like a staged production and more like an authentic storytelling session of Three 11. She also took time to understand our brand aesthetic beforehand so every angle, composition, and edit reflected the look and feel we wanted.
Which photos from the shoot are some of your favorites and why?
I love the group shot! I feel it captures so much more than just our faces…it shows our personalities!
Stay up to date with Leigh and Three 11 Design on Instagram at @three11interiordesign. To learn more about the CatMax Photography Personal Branding Experience, click here.