Whether you're shopping for a professional designer or just a loved one who appreciates interior design, choosing a home décor-focused gift can be a difficult task. After all, you'll want to choose something that's thoughtful and design-friendly, and, of course, works in their home. Luckily, there are tons of options out there that fit the bill.
From interior design coffee table books to throw blankets and more, there's a range of gifts to choose from at different price points and styles. While you shop, just be mindful of the recipient's personal style, as well as the size and functionality of the piece.
Here, the best gifts for home décor lovers.
SIN Bacchus Bookends
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West Elm
A thoughtfully arranged collection of books can act as home décor, but bookends are a great way to take it up a notch, especially if they're SIN's Bacchus Bookends, which are sturdy enough to keep books in place while also acting as a decorative piece in the home.
The set includes two bookends that are made of glazed stoneware ceramic. Though they are a bit of an investment piece, the curved design of the bookends can even double as a piece of art, so it's like two gifts for the price of one.
Live Beautiful
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Amazon
New homeowners and interior design fans alike will love design expert Athena Calderone's book "Live Beautiful." This coffee table book offers a peek into Calderone's two residences, plus includes tips from design professionals on how to craft beautiful interiors, making it a delightful gift for anyone who loves some design eye candy.
One of the best parts about the 256-page book is that in addition to giving out design advice, the book itself can even double as home décor. Whether you're styling a home office, bookshelf, or coffee table, the neutral cover will sit pretty just about anywhere you place it.
Smeg Mini Kettle
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The Smeg Mini Electric Kettle is a dream come true for any tea lover. The '50s-inspired design is a smaller version of the brand's famous Retro Electric Kettle, with a 3-cup capacity that's perfect for small spaces. It's finished with a polished chrome base and handle, as well as a 360-degree swivel base. From a pastel green hue to a vibrant red, this kettle is offered in a range of colors that anyone would be happy to have in their kitchen.
If you're concerned about forgetting to unplug the kettle, don't stress—it has an automatic shut-off feature so they can enjoy their tea in peace. Plus, in addition to anti-slip feet, there's also a built-in cord wrap so they won't have to deal with overly long cords.
Karen Jai Home Bamako Coasters
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Coasters serve a practical purpose but that doesn't mean they can't be stylish, too. Take this set by Karen Jai Home, which includes two agate coasters that'll look like little pieces of art no matter where they're placed.
The coasters are made of agate, so each piece has its own unique characteristics. Available in a soft pink color, each one is finished with a metallic gold edge that offers a luxe touch to complete the look. They make for a great housewarming gift, but it's understandable if you want to snag a set for yourself too.
Urban Outfitters Rilah Taper Candle Holder
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Urban Outfitters
If your loved one has a more eclectic style, don't miss the Rilah Taper Candle Holder from Urban Outfitters. The ceramic style with a rounded carry handle makes for a subtle yet unique addition to any home, whether it's styled on a dresser or dining table.
The candle holder is offered in one size and two colors—blue and green. Each has a glazed finish and a round base that ensures the candles will have sturdy support. The holder is sold individually, but since it's pretty budget-friendly you should be able to purchase a set of two or more.
Pottery Barn Harrison 5-Piece Bar Tool Set
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Photo Courtesy of Pottery Barn
Your favorite hostess will love Pottery Barn's Harrison Bar Tool Set. The five-piece kit includes all of the essentials to make delicious cocktails at home and is sure to look gorgeous sitting on top of a bar cabinet or cart. The kit includes a stand, a double jigger, a strainer, a bar spoon, and a muddler. Whether they're a pro bartender or just practicing, they'll have everything they need for happy hour at home.
Anthropologie Rose Twist Acrylic Dominoes Set
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Photo courtesy of Anthropologie
Game night at home just got way more stylish thanks to Anthropologie's Rose Twist Acrylic Dominos set. The set of pink dominos will add a pop of color to any game table and can even serve as a practical piece of décor between uses.
The set includes 28 pieces, each of which is striped with different shades of pink—a welcome twist on the classic domino design. The set includes an acrylic case as well, making it easy to either store in a cabinet or keep on display between uses.
World Market Ring Ceramic Vase
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H&M
Any home décor lover will appreciate World Market's Ring Ceramic Vase. The on-trend design is budget-friendly yet will make a major statement in any space, whether it's on a dining room table or nightstand.
One of the best parts about the rounded, 100 percent ceramic vase is its versatility. In addition to having a white hue that'll match just about any space, the vase looks just as good with flowers as it does without, so styling is a breeze.
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2
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Amazon
If you've ever wanted to warm up your coffee with the touch of a button, you're in luck. The Ember Mug 2 ensures coffee stays at the right temperature thanks to a built-in battery that keeps the mug warm for up to an hour and a half (or all day if you rest it on the charging coaster). Once the mug is connected to the Ember app, users can set up the preferred temperature, as well as customized presets and notification settings. Plus, if for any reason your mug can't connect to the app, it'll remember your last used temperature.
Though it's a bit of an investment compared to non-smart mugs on the market, the chic design will look great in their home whether they place it on their coffee table or home office desk.
MoMa Design Store Architect's Cubes
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MoMa Design Store
Whether they're an interior design pro or have a newfound love for architecture, MoMa Design Store's Architect's Cubes are a great way for a loved one to further immerse themselves in the field. The set includes eight cubes made of different materials, so it's easy for users to learn all about different forms and compositions.
From cork to granite to maple wood, the kit offers a look into common materials used in home design. Though the cubes are meant to be rearranged, the set also includes a tray for them to sit on between uses—a practical piece that also allows the set to double as a decorative element.
Kate Spade New York South Street Wavy Frame
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Courtesy of Bloomingdales
For a gift that's subtle yet still makes an impact, consider a picture frame like Kate Spade New York's South Street design. The frame features a unique wavy design that will work with just about any home style.
The frame is 5 by 7 inches and is offered in gold and silver, so you'll have options depending on the giftee's preferences. It makes for a thoughtful yet stylish gift on its own, but you can even personalize it further by including a photo along with it.
Aelia Home Decorative Candle Set
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Etsy
Purchasing scented candles for a loved one can be difficult. After all, everyone has different scent preferences, from floral to fresh and beyond. Luckily, Aelia Home's Decorative Candle Set is unscented yet still offers all of the decorative benefits.
The candles are made handmade of soy wax and are designed in three different shapes. They're mainly meant to be decorative but also have a 30-minute burn time in case you want to light them. While the budget-friendly set makes for a thoughtful gift, you can also purchase each shape individually as well.
What to Look for in a Gift for Home Décor Lovers
Personal Style
Home décor lovers have an appreciation for all things design, but that also means they may have a specific style in mind for their space. If you're considering decorative items like vases and throws, keep in mind the recipient's personal style and if it'll work in their home. If you're unsure, it's best to pick neutral, versatile designs and colors that they can style how they see fit.
Size
While you shop, size is a key detail to be thoughtful of. Whether or not your loved one lives in a small space, it's best to go with smaller options that are decorative or easy to store—unless, of course, it's an item on a registry or something the recipient specifically asked for. Not sure where to start? Picture frames, napkin rings, and coffee table books are all smaller options that are useful yet aren't the focal point of a room.
Functionality
Not all gifts for a home décor lover have to be practical, but it's worth considering while you shop. For example, if someone recently moved they're more likely to appreciate picks like new appliances, vases, and barware—items that are functional but that they may not have already. If you're shopping for someone who's lived in their space for a bit, picks like coffee table books, dominos, and other entertaining items are a great place to start.
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Celine Macura is a Fall 2021 Commerce Resident at Dotdash, specifically working with the MyDomaine team on commerce content. She is currently a student at Northwestern pursuing a B.S. in journalism.