Tuckernuck Tastemaker:
Sara Ruffin Costello
April 9, 2026
Get inspired by the entrepreneurs and tastemakers we admire. In our latest feature, New Orleans-based interior designer Sara Ruffin Costello welcomes us into the historic Garden District home she shares with her photographer husband, three children, nine chickens, and cat.
Meet the Tastemaker
In her career, Sara has worn many hats—editor, creative director, and interior designer—each shaping her “classic, undone, artistic” style. The founding Creative Director of DOMINO magazine in New York City, she now designs homes across America and hotels throughout the South. Her inspiration comes from travel, movies, and interiors, but what she loves most is “putting things together in a pleasing way.”
ON STYLE
“I lean classic meets modern, with bohemian
moments in art and objects from my travels.”
ON COLLECTING
“If you're a sentimentalist, mementos take on huge importance in the life of your home. A personal layer creates nuance and imperfection. Perfection, all new, all expensive—is, to me, the least interesting route.”
Sara’s Entertaining Checklist
Sara says her home is a “revolving door of guests,” so she’s always ready to host. Here are her go-tos—for everything from elegant garden parties to casual ping-pong table buffets and front-porch hangs.
The Magic Three
Warm lighting, strong cocktails, and an interesting mix of people.
On-Hand Essentials
Pressed linens, coolers, a wine bucket, candles, serving bowls and trays.
No-Fuss Menu
Frozen pizza topped with basil, snacks like pecans, cashews, and chips, and a glass bowl of blueberries.
For More Inspiration
Follow @sararuffincostello for more design and lifestyle inspiration.
