Catching up with Manhattan Beach interior designer Noelle Isbell.

When considering hiring an interior designer to help you live your dream, it’s always a good sign to discover that they are very much living theirs. With a sunny disposition that could raise anyone’s vitamin D levels and a sea-facing design studio and showroom in Manhattan Beach, Noelle Isbell is definitely living the dream and as one of Southern California’s most sought-after, and well liked, interior designers and furniture creators. 

Hard work and deep experience collaborating with architects, builders, and clients on countless residential and commercial projects have kept this self-described social butterfly and nature enthusiast’s star rising steadily for the past fifteen years. We sat down to get the details on how she’s built her business and what she’s dreaming of next.

Snyder Diamond: What did you want to be when you grew up?

Noelle Isbell: Oddly enough, it wasn't until I was filling out my college applications that I chose Interior Design as my major. It turned out to be the best decision I ever made!

SD: What advice do you have for young people who want to be interior designers?

NI: Embrace your creativity, observe the world around you, and never stop learning! Take inspiration from everything - nature, art, architecture, and all the experiences you encounter while traveling. And most importantly, stay consistent in your decisions to achieve the goals you set for yourself. Reach for the stars!

SD: You have a very strong bond with your Manhattan Beach and South Bay community―why do you think community is so important?

NI: Having lived in the South Bay for 20 years, I've cultivated relationships through networking with architects and builders. Our tight-knit community has grown stronger over the years, fostering repeated collaborations with the same architects and builders. My affection for the South Bay community stems from the profound connections formed with each homeowner pursuing their dream projects. I take great pride in sharing that numerous clients have evolved into cherished friends throughout the process of designing and building their dream homes. It brings immense joy to witness this transformation, solidifying the bonds created during the collaborative journey of realizing their vision.

“Working alongside my incredible team of designers is not just a profession—it's a shared journey of creativity and innovation.”

SD: What do you see as being some of the key ingredients to your success as an interior designer?

NI: Education, experience, passion, and a focus on collaboration and client relationships have been key elements of our growth.

Holding a bachelor's degree in interior design has provided me with a solid foundation and comprehensive understanding of design principles. Before opening my own practice 15 years ago, I worked alongside an architect for nearly four years—which gave me valuable insights into the design process and enhanced my ability to organically integrate architectural elements into my designs.

The passion I bring to my work is a driving force; working alongside my incredible team of designers is not just a profession—it's a shared journey of creativity and innovation. I thrive on the energy of collaborative efforts, drawing inspiration from diverse perspectives to create truly exceptional designs.

This industry is built on relationships—fostering real relationships and trust with folks in this industry has been critical to our success—networking and staying connected helps me on top of the latest trends, technologies, and materials—all of which contribute to the continuous evolution of my design approach.

Above all, my general love for designing and creating is the heartbeat of my success. It fuels my commitment to deliver not just aesthetically pleasing spaces, but environments that resonate with the unique needs and aspirations of my clients.

SD: What do you do in your spare time?

NI: I love dining in Manhattan Beach. It's all walkable, no reservation needed, and being on a first-name basis with the bartender is a bonus! 

“While I have a deep love for residential projects and the personal connections formed with homeowners, there's a unique satisfaction in creating designs for restaurants and bars.”

SD: It’s a bit scary to say it out loud but here we are, in 2024―what are your plans and goals?

NI: I'm enthusiastic about 2024, particularly as we embark on more restaurant projects. While I have a deep love for residential projects and the personal connections formed with homeowners, there's a unique satisfaction in creating designs for restaurants and bars. Experiencing the direct impact on the business and the positive reception from the general public is genuinely gratifying, and becomes the privilege of sharing firsthand with my friends and family. Brace yourself for the unveiling of our newest restaurant project this spring in Manhattan Beach!

Website: www.noelleinteriors.com & www.shopnoelleinteriors.com