The power of maximalism can go a long way when executed properly. For interior designer Isabel Ladd the idea of “more is more” comes all too naturally. From unique and bold prints to bright and effervescent colors, each space Isabel touches comes together effortlessly. She believes that having a design process that focuses on changing your client’s moods and mindsets has a deeper meaning, rather than just picking out furniture. Isabel has been featured in many publications such as House Beautiful, CC&SS, and now ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME. Introducing a maximalism queen, Isabel Ladd.
From the Stray Dog Designs lime chandelier, to the intricate John Robshaw textiles found on the tasteful twins, this room is just as energetic as the kids that inhabit it. Andrew Kung Photography.
Andrew Joseph: What’s your wake-up ritual?
Isabel Ladd: My day cannot start without reading from my daily devotional and affirmations book. I meditate and write down any insights on an index card, which I then tape to my bathroom mirror. If I don’t start my day with prayers and quiet, I need to stop at my first opportunity and “reset” with prayers and meditation; for the sake of myself and all those around me!
Andrew: How do you maintain a work/life balance?
Isabel: My divorce was a blessing in disguise as my ex-husband and I are best friends, making co-parenting a dream. My boys are happy and healthy, and co-parenting allows me to be super focused on all parts of my life – work and parenting. The quality time with my adorable boys is even more special.
Inspired by European design, this space provides an amazing atmosphere that instantly puts one into a jovial state. The delicate yellow chinoiserie walls were by Osborne and Little and perfectly tie the room together. Andrew Kung Photography.
Andrew: What is one thing nobody knows about you?
Isabel: I’m an open book, and there is so little that people don’t know about me. Ask, and then you’ll really have to try hard to get me to stop talking.
Andrew: What’s your dream project?
Isabel: My dream has always been to host my own home design TV show. The things I can get myself into are funny, and I would love to bring my friends, family, and clients along for the ride. We would meander design shows, home stores and teach the audience and future fans how to reinvent their homes. I believe that many people need to find ways to reinvigorate and LOVE their homes by committing to real maximalist design: patterned and colorful fabrics, art, accessories, and furnishings that elevate their mood every time they come home.
“You can never have too much” is the theme that drives this room. The amazing wallcovering is by Milton and King which is decadent in cacti and orange flowers. Andrew Kung Photography.
Andrew: What would you like to be remembered for?
Isabel: I want to be remembered as a luxury cruise ship designer. Y’all, this girl LOVES a cruise. I don’t sleep when I’m cruising: I’m always on the move, participating in all activities, and eating through every buffet. I go to every show. Cruise Directors LOVE me because I’m always giving them the energy they need from an audience. The dancers that perform nightly become my posse, when whoever I’ve dragged cruising with me has gone to “relax” (what does that even mean?) All the while, as I love my cruise-ship life, I’m totally judging the decor. Each performance grade fabric, each generic piece of art, each contract-grade wall-to-wall carpet are all begging to be revamped, replaced and leveled up!
The only request this Lexington family had was for an “explosion of color and pattern”. Ladd definitely made this dream come true in an effortless way. Pictured is the entrance to the couple’s home with unique tropical wallpaper. Andrew Kung Photography.
Andrew: Before leaving the house…
Isabel: I always look in the mirror and put one more thing on. I’m a Maximalist – I love stuff. Coco Chanel famously said: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror, and take one thing off.” I’m not trying to be contrary, but I practice the exact opposite. More is More!
Andrew: What is your affirmation for today?
Isabel: Beige is not a color. Beige is not a color. Beige is not a color.
About The Designer | You need to love your home, every single bit of it! As an enthusiastic maximalist who loves color, pattern, prints, and textures, Isabel has been creating vibrant and elegant interiors for happy clients. Her mix of old & new, antique & modern, high vs, low is a signature style, exemplifying that all good things go together. Design is not just about buying or arranging beautiful furniture. Nor is it purely a visual experience. Design is a thought process; it’s a skill. Ultimately, design is a tool to enhance our humanity—a frame for life. People behave differently in different spaces. Design is as much about the aesthetic as it is about creating an environment that can transform a mood or mindset. How things make you feel are just as important as how they look. A well-designed space can satisfy the subconscious when everything is orchestrated beautifully.
Andrew Joseph is a regular contributing editor for ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine. See more of his work here.
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