Giving gifts is an art. Like all art, it can be beautiful and thought-provoking—or go horribly wrong. The perfect gift should both show that you know the recipient very well and serve as a reminder of you each time it’s seen or used. Presents for the home can be particularly difficult as each home is so personal and sacred, but I have some ideas! Let’s break it down by room.
FOR THE LIVING ROOM
My favorite throw blankets are from Denis Colomb. The colors and patterns are stunning, and the quality is excellent. They also offer a nice variety of price points depending on how much you like the giftee.
Obviously, ashtrays and lighters are for a very specific type of friend, but smokers of all kinds will appreciate them. 1stDibs is an excellent place to find ashtrays; I like Art Deco ones in silver. For a contemporary option, Sophie Buhai makes a stunning lighter case and joint holder, both of which are beyond elegant.
Incense is a lovely way to clear the smoky air. Kaori at Ogata in Paris is an underground “pharmacy of scents” and has the best incense in the world; if you can’t make it to Paris, I recommend Astier de Villatte’s incense. There’s only one incense holder worth your time: the Abalone Incense Burner by Lisa Eisner.
Picture frames holding a photo of you and your friend are always nice. Christofle has a beautiful selection, as does Hermès.
Another choice is a vase filled with fresh flowers. If budget is not an issue, go with a vase by Buccellati; it will immediately become a family heirloom. Puiforcat makes beautiful silver vases, which won’t hurt your wallet quite as much … Just a little bruise.
FOR THE KITCHEN
Lorenzi Milano is the best brand for kitchen accessories; their bamboo pizza slicer is stunning and funny.
Glassware is a staple gift and one can never have enough. Josef Hoffmann for Lobmeyr is timeless and classic, while Marcantonio Brandolini d’Adda creates playful and elegant glasses for Laguna~B; I use them daily, and they always make me happy.
Serving dishes are another great gift. Moda Domus offers wonderful baskets, bowls, and platters in many different materials and styles.
I also love collecting and giving napkins and tea towels; you can never have too many. Heather Taylor Home makes really nice ones, which are simple and classic.
Teacups are always a nice gift, especially when presented with a beautiful set of teas. I love the Ginori 1735 Antico Doccia Tea Cup and Saucer.
FOR THE BEDROOM AND BATHROOM
There’s nothing nicer than a lovely bed blanket. I sleep with Yves Delorme’s cashmere Nymphe every night.
What better way to remind friends how much they mean to you than with beautiful sheets? I sleep on Norte sheets by Olatz. They age perfectly and come in a variety of colors. I also like Sferra’s 1,020-thread count sateen sheets.
Another great bedroom gift is a water carafe and glass. R+D. Lab has simple, classic sets; they’re luxurious essentials.
D. Porthault makes the absolute best towels. Between the solids and prints, you can find something that any friend would love; the solid-black scalloped ones are my favorites. For a less expensive option, look to Coyuchi.
Candles are always safe, but choosing a scent requires you to combine your knowledge of the recipient with something that will remind them of you. I like to give candles by Frederic Malle (my go-to is Cafe Society), which also has wonderful room sprays.
A nice robe is a perfect gift, especially if it’s from Charvet’s Place Vendôme store. Their cotton ones are the absolute best, but if you really want to spoil the recipient, opt for one of the incredible silk patterned robes.
Luxurious hand soap is a must. Santa Maria Novella makes lovely liquid soaps and accompanying creams. My favorite scent is Tabacco Toscano.
FOR THE OFFICE
A leather desk blotter is always useful. Celine makes a natural calfskin pad that’s perfect.
Attractive wastepaper baskets are few and far between but necessary next to any desk. I highly recommend Deborah Needleman’s baskets, which she handcrafts from harvested river rush.
Tissue-box covers are crucial for completing a desk setup. D. Porthault has great ones in fun patterns, which immediately brighten up any table-scape.
Small trinket boxes are imperative, too. Tiffany & Co. offers a variety of leather options designed by Elsa Peretti.
Desk trays are also important to stay organized. The Etrivière tray, from Hermès, is the best choice.
I use Post-It notes far too often, so having a nice holder is key. Scully & Scully makes a great chrome-plated one.
Michael Bargo is a New York–based interior designer
