We all know at least one person – probably several – that just loves design a little more than others. They appreciate how things are made, who made them, the materials used, the quality… everything down to the last little detail. They gravitate towards up-and-coming designers and brands, as well as the established, iconic ones that have paved the way. They’re also sometimes the most difficult to buy gifts for because you really want to make them happy! So, for the aesthetes in your life, we’ve rounded up ten modern, design-focused gifts that are next level.
If you know someone who likes to switch out their wallets for different bags or likes to just carry something small to hold their ID and credit cards, this case in Issey Miyake’s iconic geometric design is a fun one, especially in this Orange Beige & Pink Beige color.
This limited edition set makes a great gift for anyone who loves to have people over for cocktails or likes to keep unique glassware on display. The sculptural pieces feature hand-painted platinum brushstrokes which add to the uniqueness of the design. Truly stunning in person and most definitely display-worthy!
As someone who was gifted a Block Shop robe last year, I can 100% vouch for how great they are. I especially love this one with its cobalt blue and white, hand block printed pattern that gives nod to Bauhaus artist and designer, Alma Siedhoff-Buscher.
Who doesn’t love new desk accessories, especially if they are in a primary colorway?! There’s just something about having a nice pair of scissors around that makes you feel like a true adult. While maybe not something you would splurge on for yourself, imagine gifting them to that creative person in your life – one who is always making things.
If you know, you know. For those that may not, Hellerware is a stacking, melamine dinnerware collection designed by Massimo Vignelli in the 60s. While originally available only in a bright yellow, white and other colors followed. Hellerware eventually went out of production but it can still be found secondhand. The good news is that Heller is bringing the iconic dinnerware back before the end of the year and it’s currently available for pre-sale. It’s the perfect gift for those design lovers that lean towards nostalgia or those that love clean, minimalist design.
For that person that lights up your life or anything else, this color blocked lighter is a great gift. Available in two colorways, this lighter is definitely one to keep an eye on from friends that tend to light up their preferred method of smoking and then pocket the lighter when done.
For the color obsessed design lover, this stainless steel tray features 210 possible color combinations that are easy to just stare at. The warped design is simple, making it the perfect catchall for keys, a wallet, or change, but with a spectrum of colors to elevate it.
From the founders of Sight Unseen, Jill Singer and Monica Khemsurov, this book is for those that are looking for a more accessible approach to interiors through objects. The pair shares inspiring interiors and will help guide readers through practical advice on how and what to collect. Besides being a book for someone to display on their coffee table, it’s great for those who love design and want to turn their house into a place they actually want to live.
Designed as part of a collaboration between Norwegian music duo Röyksopp and jewelry brand Tom Wood, this ring is bold enough to make a statement, but a refined, sculptural one most anyone would love to wear. Additional band rings can be added into the open slots for a more custom look.
While BZIPPY is known for their ceramic work, they partnered with Areaware to design their first piece ever made in glass. The resulting stacked hexagonal shapes pay homage to Brutalist design, making for a pretty unique vase to have around on display, empty or filled with flowers.
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