TIMELESS STYLE Written by Abby Jeffers / Photography by James Henthorn
It is only fitting that the Grande Dame of women’s fashion in Columbus would have the house to match: Connie Leal Ballenger lives with her husband, Mike, in a timeless property highlighting her own eye for style and her impeccable taste, much like the clothing she sells in her upscale, high-fashion boutique, Leal, in Upper Arlington. Interiors at the french country-inspired property in Arlington are best described as bohemian, combining an original design by David Berg with the contents and design of two houses the Ballengers sold when they moved to this home: a large, old 24 slmag.net
Arlington residence and a charming Naples retreat. Berg’s penchant for sophisticated colors, traditional craftsmanship, and quality products provided the perfect backdrop for the Ballengers’ favorite pieces. The result seems effortless –– and possibly kismet. Ballenger’s style is a neat blend of old and new: upholstered furniture from Centner’s (a former Columbus staple) sits on top of rugs sourced from an old-school rug store on 5th Avenue (K.A. Menendian) and ABC Carpet & Home in New York. Artwork from the Muse Gallery adorns the walls. It is all very feminine without the fussiness –– a cool, comfortable chic.