29 Best Home Decor Gift Ideas in 2023, According to Experts
Photo illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Retailer
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Raise your hand if you have friends with impeccable taste and even nicer homes. Us too. Whether it’s the couple who just moved in together or your friend who successfully convinced you to try butterboards, you know that their coffee tables are covered in books and that they’ve easily managed a gallery wall to demolish.
We asked the experts to comment. Author and interior designer Athena Calderone loves the thrill of finding a holiday gift for someone special and recommends discovering new artisans, ceramicists, and vintage decor pieces 1. Dibs, Chairman, Etsyand even Instagram.
Once you’ve narrowed that down, there are a few other things you should pay attention to, according to the design entrepreneur and Colony founder Jean Lin are tableware, glassware or textiles such as a blanket or quilt. “I love finding special items from independent designers and stores, which makes somewhat ‘simple’ gifts feel really special and bespoke.”
What do all these pieces of jewelry have in common? You guessed it: they are functional And practical. A tip from the interior designer Kelly Wearstler Also highly recommended: “Meaningful table accessories like a chic lamp or ceramic bowl make the perfect gift.” They can be complementary, sculptural and useful!”
There you have it: The interior design pros have weighed in, and below are great suggestions for the mom whose house is always immaculate for the Gen Z-constantly mood-boarding generation on Pinterest.
An affordable yet luxurious option is the Maison Margiela Replica Candle. The scents fill the room even when not lit, and these minimalist vessels will complement any decor.
Photo: Courtesy of the retailer
Jean Lin’s favorite affordable option is the classic Le Labo candle. Whoever receives this will happily reuse the vase when they are finished.
This Athena Calderone favorite comes from Oliver Gustav. These candles are housed in colored glass jars and can be reused later.
“Everyone loves a scented candle, but especially one in a unique container that can be reused as a decorative item after it burns out,” says Calderone. “There is something so poetic about giving someone a scent you love or admire.”
This Loewe candle is almost too beautiful to burn. It’s a favorite of Michelle Li and adds just the right amount of color to her space.
Or give this slightly cheaper and seasonal option instead. You will be amazed at how good this candle looks in the amber glass and of course how good it smells.
The Cut’s resident fragrance expert Asia Milia Ware recommends this candle, which smells great and comes in a reusable jar. So if they like fresh and light scents, they will love flaunting these in their homes.
Yes, this is great for hot pots in the kitchen, but your design-minded friends will really make the most of this handmade trivet. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a table; Here you can leave freshly baked treats or a candle.
“As someone who loves to cook and hosts regularly, I always appreciate a nice bottle of olive oil,” explains Calderone. “It’s a small but very thoughtful gift. I’m currently loving Branche’s olive oils.”
A multi-purpose plate can be used for serving, but can also serve as a place to store small items if necessary.
Go abstract with this stoneware plate that looks way more expensive than it actually is. It looks cool on any coffee or dining table.
Although it’s technically a plate, we think it’s a little too pretty to keep in a cupboard until the next dinner party. So be sure to let him know that it also works well as a serving plate or tray for small things.
Fun And functional. These tiny bowls are perfect for storing ingredients and toppings for serving or midnight snacking. When not in use, the recipient can stack them and display them on the pristine shelves.
Paper napkins simply cannot compete with the elegance of embroidered napkins. This colorful set of cocktail napkins is sure to impress your guests and liven up a table.
Protect all your new tables and furniture with these coasters that you’ll love bringing out for guests.
You’ll love this surprisingly chic two-in-one paper towel holder and cleaner that’ll quickly clean up kitchen spills. It comes in a few color options, but we think the brass is a nice touch.
“I like a designer cell phone. I don’t think people would buy this for themselves, but it instantly adds a special touch to any room,” explains Lin. This rainbow mobile is an easy way to brighten up a dull corner of your home.
This Lin-recommended light serves as both mood lighting and an accent piece, adding a warm glow to any room.
Wearstler proposes this versatile marble tray that serves as a decoration and storage place for whatever you want – perfect for your friends with small apartments.
One thing they can never have enough of is blankets and throws. “My favorite gifts to give are my cashmere throws. There’s nothing better than curling up on the couch under a warm blanket in the winter, even in LA!” Wearstler explains. Her favorite throws are from Loewe and her own brand.
Opt for something more festive like this seasonal wool-blend throw, available in orange and dark red. It’s perfect for your friends whose Christmas decorations are more minimalist.
If you don’t need a throw blanket, consider this knot pillow to add some color to your neutral couch, chair or bed. It comes in a variety of colors and textures, but we particularly like this silver model.
Another thing you can give as a gift is a good book. “Whether it’s a coffee table book or a literary classic, they can be an amazing source of inspiration or an escape while learning something new,” says Wearstler. Our selection from Phaidon looks great on a coffee table but also features innovative designs spanning centuries.
However, be sure to find something personal that matches the interests of your discerning friends.
This edgy choice from Lin features arm accents and you can even add a small pocket accessory for a few dollars more. Gift this with a bouquet of her favorite flowers.
Give the gift of a vase that looks just as good empty as it does with your favorite flowers or plants in it.
Since they don’t need another standard vase, give the gift of this unusual way to display their favorite flowers.
Decorate a desk or table with this small ball that can be filled with a few flowers or plants.
Consider another sculptural option that is both a vase and an interesting decorative piece. Gift this along with a bouquet of dried flowers or plants.
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