In case you missed it, local interior designer Isabel Ladd was recently listed on House Beautiful Magazine’s Class of 2022 Next Wave of rising designers. That got us thinking, what does one of the biggest names in the design world love about Lexington?

We spoke with two interior designers, who gave us a peek into their vision board and shared their dream project, favorite street in Lexington + more.

Isabel in her kitchen. | photo by Andrew Kung

Isabel Ladd

Describe your design style in three words
Vivid. Saturated. Curated.

What has been your favorite project + why?
My home is my absolute favorite project because it is a direct reflection of all the things that bring me joy. It is just the right mix of explosive patterns and colors, and intriguing shapes and objects. It’s a reflection of how I dress and live: vividly.

If you could work on any house in Lexington which one would it be, aka your dream Lexington project?
I work on dream projects every day; I have incredible clients. But I would love to design for a boutique hotel one day, where I can pull out all the stops.

What is your favorite residential street to drive down?
Second Street. I love the big, historic homes, especially those that are itching to be renovated and brought back to all that glory. I will drive out of my way to drive down that street and daydream.

What is your favorite thing about living in Lexington?
It’s vibrancy! I love knowing so many people and their colorful stories. I don’t know if I’d have that intimacy living in a larger city. And it’s not too small either. Lexington feels inviting and cultured to me.

Sarah Marks sitting in one of her favorite projects, her own home. | photo by Linzay Marks

Sarah Marks

Describe your design style in three words
Charming, Playful, Inviting

What has been your favorite project + why?
If I'm being honest, my own home. Of course, it is the most genuine expression of my style but also where I challenge my creativity. I often try out new ideas in my home, which has led to some of my favorite design moments that I can now implement in my client's homes.

If you could work on any house in Lexington which one would it be, aka your dream Lexington project?
Any home in Gratz Park, I love that area so much!

Favorite residential street to drive down?
Market St.

Favorite thing about living in Lexington?
I love the ability to drive 10 minutes out of town and see some of the most beautiful farms in the world.