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There are plenty of gift guides for those with specific tastes: chocolate gift guides, gift guides for bakers. And for those on your list who you’re not quite sure about, there are home decor gifts. Because, for better or for worse, we’re all hyperaware of our homes (and their shortcomings) right now. Even your second cousin, who’s sort of a slob, has spent the past nine months becoming more acquainted with—and invested in—their home, and probably wouldn’t mind a little help sprucing it up around the holidays.
Don’t know your cousin’s specific taste? There are universal crowd-pleasers for that: linen napkins, an elegant pinched-top planter, a neutral-colored mohair throw. Less universal (and a little more of a treat) are the kookier items: wavy wine racks, a showstopping mirrored bar set, the pillow that’s been hand-embroidered with teeny snap peas. Read on for home decor gifts in both categories, any of which will make for a timely—and actually useful—present.
Plants
Everyone (everyone!) loves greenery. If you’re searching for a gift for a true gardener, look to this stellar gift guide from our resident green thumb, staff writer Wilder Davies. If you’re just trying to help a friend keep an easygoing ZZ plant alive (or maybe you know their plants are doomed and you want to introduce them to the dried variety instead?) read on.
Barware
For the friends and family members who have been documenting their nightly martinis on Instagram. While some of my favorite barware gifts hit in the $30 range (like these rainbow-edged linen cocktail napkins), there’s one extravagant gift here. The full Georg Jensen Sky Bar set, designed by Aurélien Barbry, will definitely become a family heirloom for a lucky someone this season. Each element of the set is also sold individually—I’ve got my eye on the corkscrew alone.
Decorative Accents
Sometimes the nice doodads steal the show. Consider a crowd-pleasing classic in an updated shape—like this curled, almost jewelry-like log holder, or these architectural candles from Areaware. Or find them a pretty thing that also tidies up the home: a patterned tray for keys, mail, jewelry, or masks that will help pull together a messy countertop.
Tableware
Beautiful serving vessels, linens, and glassware will always be appreciated—maybe even more so now that we have all the time in the world to daydream about having friends ’round for dinner again.
Pillows and Throws
It’s the season of coziness—especially if your giftee is trying to maximize their outdoor dining space a little while longer. Chunky knit throws, fluffy brushed mohair, and a whole manner of decorative, plush throw pillows will go a long way in making this winter as warm and comfortable as possible.
