It can be hard to find good gifts that align with someone’s hobby. If they’re super into something, they are going to know the great products better than you. Make it easier on yourself and, next time you’re over their place, take a look around and see what they could use or add to their pad. Deciding to give a gift for around the home opens up a world of possibilities. If you want to trim that list to just some of the awesome stuff, check out the picks below.
POP Home Switch
This simple looking device is actually a powerful and clever way to power a home. The POP Home Switch sticks to a wall or a flat surface and allows any homeowner to turn on the lights, put on some music, lock the doors and more. The Logitech gadget works with devices from Philips Hue, Sonos, Harmony, and other manufacturers to allow users to turn on/off the smart products in their home. Consider it a futuristic lightswitch.
$40+
3D-Printed City Chess Set
Chess is the thinking man’s game, and a board on display in someone’s home says something about that person. Problem is, while one says “Hey, I’m a clever dude,” it doesn’t always say “and I have an eye for style.” That’s why we’re fans of these City Chess Sets. Each of the sets is 3D-printed and features playing pieces based on buildings from around the city. Choose from Philly, Portland, San Fran, and more. If they like to play and have a love for the architecture where they live, this one is a no-brainer.
$96+
Flip Clock
These days, when we want to check the time, we unlock our smartphone or flip on a computer. It works, but we’re losing something with all this screen staring. One of the things we’re losing is the beauty of the classic flip clock. This holiday, give them the gift of that old school charm with this Flip Clock from one of the original manufacturers. It will keep precise time and look good on display.
$99
New Mac Candle
There are a million candles that will make a home smell like some combo of flowers and clean towels, but how many will make their home smell like a brand new computer? Answer: one. The New Mac Candle, as the name suggests, smells like a freshly purchased Apple device. If all their gadgets are pearly white, this is the candle they’ll want in their home.
$24
Vitra Toolbox
From desk accessories to DIY necessities, every homeowner could use more attractive storage options for their small gear. Give them one with the Vitra Toolbox. Designed by Arik Levy, the eye-catching toolbox allows someone to keep tabs on their tiny supplies. Easy to transport but also sharp enough to just leave on a shelf, the Vitra Toolbox is a welcome alternative to the kitchen junk drawer.
$60
EverBlock
Let’s call a spade a spade; these are LEGO blocks for adults. And you know what? That’s awesome. With the EverBlock system, people can build whatever they dream up. Sure that can mean a table, desk, or other functional item, but it could also mean whatever fun stuff you tried to construct with everyone’s favorite toy brick when you were a kid. Okay, so there are no wheels, because these are meant for professionals, so your car models are out, but EverBlock is still pretty awesome and plenty of fun.
$40+
Best Made Belgian Dart Set
Darts is the quintessential bar game. If you know someone with a home bar, give them a set that doesn’t look like it was pulled from the wall of a dive. The Belgian Dart Set from Best Made Co. is where it’s at. All handmade in the USA, the set is inspired by traditional Belgian sets from the 18th century. The board features an attractive brass frame and a basswood surface, while each of the balanced darts boast solid steel tips.
$128
Restoration Hardware Polished Marble Box Collection
The problem with most storage boxes and cases is they look only marginally better than leaving the contents strewn about. That’s not the case with these cases. Made from polished marble, each holds some of your gear and looks good doing it. Available in three different sizes, the Polished Marble Box Collection from Restoration Hardware will spice up any bland bookshelf.
$95+
The Casper Dog Mattress
PARTNER Everyone knows someone with a pooch they love more than just about anything. For that person, the Casper Dog Mattress is such an awesome gift. Just like Casper’s classic mattress—which is designed for humans, FYI—the Casper Dog Mattress boasts pressure-relieving memory foam and durable support foam. Since pups spend more than half their lives sleeping, the build offers the kind of comfort their tired bodies need. On top of that, the Casper Dog Mattress features foam bolsters to help dogs feel safe, it stands up to teeth and claws, and it features excess material on top to mimic the surface of the earth so they can dig in. It’s the dog mattress a pup parent would love to have.
$125
Faribault Woolen Mill Vintage City Map Wool Throw
Faribault Woolen Mill Co. has been crafting seriously warm and stylish blankets and throws since the 1800s. Their Vintage City Map Wool Throw collection is yet another reason we love them. If you have someone on your list who likes to brag about the pizza in New York, the views in Paris, or the perfect weather in San Francisco, let them put that pride on display. Each throw is made in the USA and ready to tackle the cold months ahead.
$180
Juniper Ridge Topanga Canyon Incense
For too many, incense brings to mind a group of hippies chatting over a passed joint. Incense doesn’t have to mean nag champa filling your nostrils. These sticks from Juniper Ridge fill someone’s home with the intoxicating aroma of the Pacific coast. When they fire some up, their pad will be filled with the scents of wildflower meadows, hidden swimming holes, and rain-soaked oak. When the snow is falling and they’re stuck indoors, Topanga Canyon Incense will remind them of an epic hike.
$15
Wood & Faulk Leather Desk Pad
This Leather Desk Pad from the folks at Wood & Faulk adds some sophistication to any workspace. Available in three different sizes, each is cut from English bridle leather that was tanned in the USA. If they just need a mouse pad, gift them the small. If their entire desk could use some refinement, go with the large. No matter which size you choose, it will transform their work area into a space any gentleman would be proud of.
$55+
Tivoli Audio Cube
What we love about the Cube from Tivoli Audio is how effortlessly it blends in with its surroundings. While other speakers look cold and uncomfortable on wooden bookcases and atop clean desks, the Cube looks right at home. Now that wouldn’t matter if it couldn’t perform, but this tiny Bluetooth speaker packs a punch. It boasts Spotify Connect, a fabric speaker grill, and the ability to pair with others to fill any space with music. On top of that, it even hides capacitive touch wood so the user can simply tap it to play and pause music.
$200
The Switchboard
The standard coat rack is a space-eating eyesore. For an apartment-friendly option that actually looks good, give The Switchboard. The 30” long rack boasts 25 wood hooks that can be flipped down to hold coats, an umbrella, or random accessories. Built from solid beech wood, The Switchboard is an awesome gift for anyone on your list who appreciates clever design and could use a little more floor space in their New York City studio.
$65
Adam Ambro Auto Prints
Buying artwork for someone is tricky. If you aren’t completely in tune with their tastes, we’d suggest you steer clear. That said, if they’re someone who loves vintage cars and trucks, we can’t imagine them not loving one of these prints from Adam Ambro. Each features a newspaper backdrop and a bit of car porn. Choose from an old Jeep, a vintage camper, and many more.
$20+
Anglepoise Paul Smith Edition Desk Lamp
The iconic Anglepoise Desk Lamp has provided light for those who burn the midnight oil for decades. Already stylish, the legendary desk lamp has been given a new colorway thanks to legendary designer Paul Smith. If you know a writer, a late-night tinkerer, or just someone who appreciates timeless design, gift them this lamp. Clad in bold colors—like everything Paul Smith touches—the desk lamp is set to be the new focal point of any workspace.
$240
