Jake Arnold's dos and don'ts of decorating

LA-based aesthete and founder of The Expert Jake Arnold talks us through his design rules for good decorating

Jake Arnold's designed a visually exciting area that prioritises conversations in the kitchen of this Beverly Estates project.

Michael Clifford and Yoshihiro Makino

Do shop vintage

Find unique pieces that not everyone has. Have fun searching for items that are meaningful and add character to your space.

Don't make things look too perfect

Aim for a casual, lived-in look. Avoid overly arranging pillows or stacking coffee table books too perfectly. A bit of messiness shows more character.

Do play with textures

Mix and match different textures to add depth and interest to your interiors.

Instagram content

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

Don't rely solely on the internet for inspiration

Travel and find inspiration in good books. The older the book, the better.

Do create conversational areas

Arrange furniture to facilitate gatherings and conversations, which is key for a good party. Provide areas where people can comfortably gather and talk.

Michael Cliffod

Don't overcrowd your space

Simplicity is often better. Avoid overcrowding your couch with too many pillows or trying to fit too much furniture into a room.

Do invest in lighting

Use unique lighting, such as sourced sconces and floor lamps, to bring life into a space. Ensure overhead lighting can be dimmed to set the mood. Don’t invite me over unless you have dimmers.

Don't forget about comfort

Ensure your space is comfortable, with furniture and decor that are not only stylish but also inviting and functional.

A comfortable dining area draws the outside in, in this project by Jake in Fort Lauderdale

Do use durable materials

Choose materials like mohair that are long-lasting. Investing in high-quality materials ensures that pieces can be enjoyed for years without tarnishing.

Don't ignore scale and proportions

Invest in furniture that grounds your space. Avoid buying an expensive rug that is too small for the room. Instead, consider a larger, more affordable rug that ties the space together. Nothing is worse than furniture that looks off scale.