Kelly Wearstler Picks 13 Design Objects That Will Make Your Home the Main Character

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 Kelly Wearstler, the notable interior and product designer. Get the exclusive on what’s at the top of her wish list here and don’t forget to subscribe to the Clever newsletter to get these picks delivered straight to your inbox each month.

When high-profile individuals have a new space to design, they know to call Kelly Wearstler. The AD100 designer has worked with the likes of LeBron James, Elton John, Cher, Gwen Stefani, and Cameron Diaz. She’s also become a household name in the world of hospitality, commercial, and retail design, completing spaces such as the San Francisco Proper Hotel, Santa Monica Proper Hotel, Austin Proper Hotel, Four Seasons Anguilla, BG Restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman, and the Viceroy Hotels and Residences, to name a few. With an intuitive approach tailored toward evoking the senses, Kelly curates spaces with the experiential at the top of mind.

“Design is all about storytelling, and every space has a narrative to tell,” she explains. “I’m drawn to pieces that can hold their own dialogue, whether that is through color, shape, form, or function. When curating this selection, I wanted these objects to be able to live individually in a space, but also create a harmonious visual discussion.”

Kelly is inspired by everything from fashion and art to nature and travel, and her aesthetic is all about juxtaposition⁠; this is usually achieved by adding contemporary and classic materials and raw and refined details. She adds, “Vintage and soulful historical reference points lend such spirit to a space, so I am constantly revising and redesigning with these elements in mind to create a laid-back and effortlessly soulful vibe.” Here, the interior designer tells us all about the 13 products that she’s currently got her eye on.

“If you have an amazing candleholder, I say that deserves an amazing candle. These cone-shaped tapers really deliver that additional visual oomph.”

“Lighting is crucial when establishing an atmosphere, and these translucent votives do just the trick.”

“These architectural candleholders remind me of California. I would love to see them paired in a room with my Faded Terracotta paint from Farrow & Ball.”

“How playful and sculptural is this vase? I love how it looks with or without florals. It’s a fun accent for so many spaces in the home.”

“My Rarity Catchall bowls are hand-carved by artisans from poured concrete, so no two are exactly the same. I love this piece for keeping special jewelry in the bedroom or house keys by the entrance.”

“Every item in my household is considered. I cherish elevating the simplest tasks with thoughtful design, and these scissors do just that when I’m clipping herbs from my garden or arranging florals.”

“It may be low-key, but this kettle has attitude. It would definitely bring a little edge to any kitchen.”

“Mixing and matching textures and tones is at the center of my approach. These bowls feel both modern and elemental. It would look beautiful atop a stone or warm wood surface.”

“Fragrance really sets a mood and is often an overlooked element in the home. I love what Loewe does. Their Cypress Balls room spray is earthy and inviting, perfect for the changing season.”

“These cashmere throws are so luxurious. I can’t wait to spend evenings this winter wrapped up in one or to style them on a bed or tossed on an armchair.”

“As we enter the holiday season, I definitely have entertaining on my mind. These low-profile taper holders are versatile and modern, and can be placed in a tablescape or around your home.”

“I love incorporating historically important designs into my projects. This chess set by Man Ray is a total flex for any living room or den.”

“I have a large Rotganzen sculpture in my L.A. home, and I was lucky enough to partner with them to create pieces inspired directly by my hometown. It is incredibly rare for them to produce a smaller version of these disco balls. Their work is an inspiration.”