Jake Arnold’s 9 Must-Haves for Upgrading Minimalist Spaces

AD presents the Clever Guest Edit, a shopping series in which our favorite design enthusiasts share the products and collectibles that bring their homes to life. This week’s special guest is Jake Arnold, an interior designer and cofounder of The Expert. Get the exclusive on what’s at the top of his wish list here and don’t forget to subscribe to the Clever newsletter to get these picks delivered straight to your inbox each month.

AD100 designer Jake Arnold brings a fresh point of view to modern spaces that truly feel lived-in. As he previously told AD, “My philosophy is to create spaces that are high impact but livable, timeless, and comfortable.” Attracting a roster of A-list clients that include Rashida Jones, Katy Perry, and John Legend and Chrissy Teigen, the interior designer understands how to make a space both inviting and enticing with decorative pieces and materials that have character and soul.

This week, Jake embarked on his first product design endeavor through an exclusive collaboration with Parachute. The limited-edition collection consists of 11 pieces that add another layer of depth to any domestic environment—from bedding and loungewear to home decor, the Los Angeles–based designer has every base covered with rich textures and subdued prints. So, we couldn’t think of a better idea than to have Jake share a few of his favorite things for pulling off an “updated take on a neutral home,” based on all of his signature touches.

“At our studio, and in my personal life, I gravitate toward neutrals, but it’s the subtle details—materiality, texture, and various tones—that make each individual piece interesting to me,” Jake tells Clever. “The collection I’ve created with Parachute is the neutral base that can be built upon and added to to create a beautifully layered home.”

“A perfect, simple, tableware addition with a subtle detail to make everyday dining more elevated.”

“A fresh alternative to a sconce in a dining room or bedroom.”

“The best add-on to any bed spread! It’s as easy to style as it is chic. Don’t overload your bed with pillows—making your bed should be an easy ritual, and a great bolster style can pull it all together.”

“I love these baskets for either a kids room or playroom as a refined and chic way to store toys or in a family den for throws.”

“Bring back the bed skirt! A bed skirt is an easy way to add a designer element to a space that feels custom.”

“We continue to use this specific light in a lot of our projects. It is versatile for a number of spaces, from kids rooms to poolside bathrooms. The wicker brings about a really nice glow.”

“A favorite that we use in a lot of our studio projects, and that I personally recommend to clients via The Expert. A natural textured, patterned rug provides an interesting first layer for all types of rooms.”

“I love this color combination as an update to a neutral bedding collection. The color palette is subtle, unisex, and can work in any bedroom.”

“Small vases like this are great additions for any space, a perfect vessel for florals, or equally as pretty empty on a wood shelf or console.”