Lisa Jackson, owner of LJ Cross on Madison Avenue, has a cool, collected, minimal aesthetic that is apparent in everything from her personal style, to the interiors of her homes—a glass and light-filled rooftop aerie on Park Avenue and a picture-perfect Southampton retreat— and the items she carries at her store. The jewel-box boutique showcases her collection of fine jewelry and her edited selection of indie brands that she discovers while traveling in search of the world’s newest and most original designs. Visiting the store, one can expect to find a handsome assortment of apparel and accessories in pure whites and warm neutrals, with colorful accents such as Yves Klein blue rattan clutches and chartreuse cashmere scarves. We sat down with the tastemaker to learn about her design inspirations, travel favorites, and entertaining go-tos.
Describe your aesthetic in five words or less.
Luxe and informal always modern with a twist.
Color or neutrals?
I lean towards the pure but love florals and that often involves lots of color.
What design "rule" do you think is made to be broken?
There are no rules when aesthetics are involved. Proportion, texture, and color are all subjective. Sky’s the limit— I’m always tweaking things and creating something new and exciting.
What's a place you've visited that has most inspired the design in your home?
Axel Vervoordt’s Kanaal in Belgium
Name your three favorite design hotels.
Nobu Ryokan in Malibu, Amanzoe in Port Heli, and Il Pellicano in Porto Ercole
Favorite book you've read this year?
Re-reading Tom Wolfe The Bonfire of the Vanities
"It’s always a summer-supper -buffet-style-alfresco with weathered teak picnic tables, lots of candles, and white flowers of the season."
Do you collect anything?
Furs, shoes, and ceramics
What's your go-to hostess gift?
LJ Cross Japanese Umbrellas. Their pattern, vibrance, and hues are original and practical.
Where do you entertain the most?
Hands down Bluehaven, our home in Southampton, is our favorite. It’s always a summer-supper -buffet-style-alfresco with weathered teak picnic tables, lots of candles, and white flowers of the season.
What songs, artists or genres are on your go-to playlist for a get-together at home?
I love a litany of musicians From Brett Dennen to the Rolling Stones. It’s always about the beat and the lyrics.
What are 2-3 key ingredients to a successful dinner party?
Warm evenings with a gentle breeze, mixing up the peeps and the libations.
What's one item you'd never entertain without?
Pink Champagne—Cristal Rosé is my go-to.
Go-to hors d'oeuvres to serve at a party?
I like to have a theme...often fresh seafood in the summer time: Crudo of halibut with limes, chilies, and cilantro; miniature fish tacos with tomatillo salsa and pickled radish; and mini lobster rolls on homemade brioche buns.
What are your dinner guest pet peeves?
I could tell you about my pet peeves… thankfully my guests always deliver style, fairytales, and great humor.
Any go-to candles you like to burn at home when entertaining? Or relaxing?
Nest’s Grapefruit Candle— the bigger the better.
What Instagram accounts do you follow for design inspiration?
@trey.laird, @the_barngirl, @figtny, @stellenevolandes, @archdigest, @christianelemieux
To me, home is...
The Riot House.
