Backgammon Boards, Cashmere Blankets, and 14 More Gifts Our Experts Swear By
Words by Kate McGregor
Photo courtesy of Rosie Seabrook
Interior designers may primarily be tasked with transforming lack-luster spaces into rooms you’d want to hang out in all day, but they also happen to be excellent shoppers.
This comes in especially handy during the holidays, while most of us are scratching our heads trying to find a selection of gifts that everyone on our list will treasure. “I approach gifting with all five senses,” says Jake Arnold. “I often think about what I love and the things around me that really add value to my life. I then translate that into finding similar items for my friends and family.”
Needless to say, our Experts know a thing or two about sourcing something everyone will love. Ahead, 16 gifts for everyone from the cousin who has everything to the perfect bulk-buy for coworkers. This year, don’t forget to put your own name on the list as well.
For the Home Chef
“This is definitely a splurge… But this March Kosher Salt would be a great gift for the chef in your life. In a chic dark glass apothecary jar, this is something you would want to keep on display.” —Michael Hilal
For the One Who Has Everything
“I have this candle lit everyday in the office and at home, but you can’t go wrong with any of Maison Margiela's options. They have the best scents.” —Jake Arnold
For the Black Thumb
“I love these single flowers from Casa Gusto. The tulip is great—it can stand alone or you can give a few to that extra special person and they’ll make a great sculptural moment on a mantle or window sill.” —Whitney McGregor
For the Collector
“The Gigli Bowl by Bettina Ceramica is our favorite gift for the home. All of her products are made by amazing artisanal Italian producers and they all have an interesting backstory.” —Buchanan Studio
For the Host With the Most
“Given that I cook quite a bit, I want everything in my kitchen to have a level of design and beauty to it. This piece offers a balance of great design and utilitarianism.” —Michael Hilal
For the Homebody
“A cashmere throw blanket is always a welcomed gift. I adore the patterns from Saved New York and this is one of my favorites.” —Nina Farmer
For the Organized One
“I keep catchalls everywhere—on my entryway console, coffee table, and nightstand—to avoid scratching surfaces with things like keys and jewelry. This tray is so beautiful, it doubles as a drop zone and decorative object.” —Michael Hilal
For the New Homeowners
“An Expert gift card is a no-brainer to help people make a transformative impact on their home.” —Jake Arnold
For the Wind-Down Convert
“These bath salts have become part of our Sunday night ritual and we couldn’t now live without them. They have the most relaxing scent we have ever used and come in a beautiful glass vessel with extremely pleasing branding. Absolute heaven.” —Buchanan Studio
For the Game Night Fam
For the Book Worm
“Books are one of my favorite things to accessorize with because they give a home depth and a sense of the person who lives there. I love to give ones that offer inspiration and tailoring my selections to what I think each person in my life would love. This Gio Ponti book is always a go-to.” —Jake Arnold
For the Dinner-Party Thrower
“I’m dreaming of a winter white and ice blue holiday table so I can incorporate these beauties.”—Whitney McGregor
For the Antique Enthusiast
“I love Match pewter. I have been collecting it ever since I registered for it for my wedding. Their pieces are handmade in Italy and have a beautiful heirloom quality about them.” —Nina Farmer
For Anyone and Everyone
“Everyone needs a good hand wash and, in my opinion, this is the absolute best.” —Jojo Bar, House Nine
For the Vibe Creator
“There is nothing cozier than soft, ambient lighting to make a space feel more inviting and warm. This is the perfect sentiment to give to a loved one.” —Leigh Lincoln, co-founder Pure Salt Interiors
For Yourself (You Deserve It!)
“I have been loving an impactful yellow this season, and this settee would be perfect for my new place.” —Jake Arnold