HENK Visits Chloé Leenheer
In the series “HENK Visits”, we visit inspiring people to take a look at their daily lives. This time, we are at home with multi-talented Chloé Leenheer. Chloé began her artistic journey in the world of ballet at the Royal Conservatoire. Nowadays, she shines in the theatre and on television, and you can hear her voice in commercials and audiobooks. She is also a photographer and has published a beautiful book, “The Last Dance”, featuring her own work. With a great deal of passion, Chloé works on what she loves most: telling stories. In whatever way she can.
Can you briefly introduce yourself?
My creative work really goes in all directions, but at its core, it's always about my love for the craft and storytelling. Whether I'm in front of the camera in films, directing behind the lens, or narrating children's books and podcasts, it all stems from the same passion. I believe that you never stop learning, and it's precisely the variety of my work that keeps me sharp and helps me grow. And honestly? It just gives me a lot of energy and pleasure.
Where do you find inspiration?
I actually get inspiration from everywhere. Interior design fascinates me – that balance between functionality and beauty. Art and museums give me the cultural depth I love, while films often evoke new images or ideas. But above all, it's the people around me who inspire me. My friends all have their own view of the world, and it's those differences that challenge me. Their stories, choices and beliefs often take my creative process to another level. That's what makes it lively and rich for me.
How would you describe your interior style, and what is important to you when decorating your home?
I would call my interior style eclectic. It is a mix of old and new: vintage finds, designer pieces, objects I have brought back from my travels, things with a story, that linger. There's also something playful about it, perhaps that's the actor in me. For me, a space doesn't have to be sleek or distant, but rather warm and a little unexpected. To me, an interior feels like something that is never completely finished. It grows with you, and you can always add or change something. For me, beauty lies in simplicity and in the stories you bring with you.
You do a lot: you're an actress, photographer and involved in creative projects. How do you make sure your house really feels like home?
For me, a house feels like home when it radiates peace and warmth. I often work from home and I notice that I get distracted quickly by too much colour – no matter how much I like it elsewhere. When I'm in a colourful interior, I often think: yes, I want this too! Every room a different shade, wonderful! But to be honest, I get tired of things quite quickly. A red stool can be my favourite for a year, and then suddenly it feels too present. That's why I prefer a calm palette at home – it helps me focus, and ultimately it's also a more sustainable choice.
You have a great love for art. Where does that passion come from?
Art nourishes me, it gives me energy. That's why I enjoyed being an ambassador for Amsterdam Art Week so much. My own art collection started with “Zwerfkunst” (street art) – a very accessible way to get started: affordable, but with character. I also attach great value to young talent. That fresh perspective, that raw beginning... sometimes you can see so early on that someone is going to be special. To then buy one of the first works by such an artist – that means something. For me, but certainly also for them.
What is your favourite (art) object in your home, and why?
I love contrasts in materials, shapes and structures. You can see that reflected in what I collect at home. One of my favourite objects is perhaps the Turtle bookend, designed by Marcantonio. It's a kind of functional work of art. But I also attach great value to things I bring back from my travels. These can be small items, but also furniture, lamps or a print. It's precisely because there's a story or feeling attached to it that an object becomes truly valuable to me.
Why did you choose the Turn table?
The Turn table has something playful about it for me. That's mainly because of its spherical legs – almost as if the table is standing on dancing shoes. The contrast between the sleek tabletop and the round shapes underneath makes it exciting and elegant at the same time. And I love it when you can feel the craftsmanship: the legs are carefully made, with an eye for detail.
View Chloe's Turn table here.
