Lisa Jackson LJ Cross

By: Isaiah Negron

With an eye for edgy design and the drive to make her visions come to life, designer Lisa Jackson is no stranger to success. Beginning her career as a private Art and Antiques Consultant, she traveled the globe in search of exceptional art and rare antiques. Having a knack for aesthetics and creating beauty, she took the next step and entered the world of interior design, working for clients including Vera Wang, Renee Zellweger, Michael J. Fox and Tory Burch. "It started when I was randomly asked if I could design an apartment. I always had a creative side so I said, 'Sure!' and, honestly, the guy was too cute to refuse!" she remembers. "It was this serendipitous moment in time and now I've been a residential interior designer for 15 years." Jackson capitalized on her taste and comprehensive knowledge on topics ranging from the finest bed linens to the latest in home technology and established a luxury design firm that provides the highest level of service in the demanding world of interior design.  She also owns Lucca and Co. at 306 East 61st Street, which offers an incredible, curated design experience.

This year Jackson took a step in a new direction and launched LJ Cross, a fashion-forward line of crosses featuring innovative designs and gemstones. "I had the urge to do something else creative," Jackson says. "This has been buzzing around in my head for a while and I decided to jump in headfirst. Now I'm in overdrive!" Alongside Design Director Ward Kelvin, who has worked with both Tiffany & Co. and David Yurman, Jackson utilized her signature minimalist style and eclectic design sense to create bold statements and unique looks for each piece. Using the highest quality gemstones, each piece reflects a keen sense of modernity while embracing timeless spirituality. Jackson began designing crosses as a tribute to her late brother Steven, who consistently wore multiple crosses. "For me, the cross is a spiritual symbol. It has nothing to do with religion," she explains. "I made the line to be feminine, chic, dramatic and a must-have item."

As a native New Yorker, Jackson owes much of her inspiration to city living. "I'm a minimalist at heart and growing up in Manhattan exposed me to all kinds of architecture and design," Jackson explains. "I've always been drawn to simplicity and feel very comfortable in my point of view." Her visual talent has allowed her to branch out in many ways, but Jackson says she is nowhere near finished, wanting to build LJ Cross into a broad luxury lifestyle brand. "We're not in a hurry, as we want to build a solid foundation, but the momentum is insane and I'm so thrilled." LJ Cross is sold exclusively at Phoenix Roze on 944 Madison Avenue.

ljcrossny.com