It’s that time of year, when our cities transform into winter wonderlands, twinkling with lights and festive decorations, and we face one of the biggest challenges of the season: the perfect gift. It’s a task that’s especially tricky when you’re trying to impress that special someone with extremely discerning tastes.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From a rare vintage lounge set honouring New York’s most beloved street artist to sculptural candlesticks made in Paris, our design marvels will impress even the most demanding.
Cubist Bookend by Assouline
Assouline isn’t just one of the most prominent publishers in the world of art and culture; it is also an impressive source for household design. Its Cubist Bookends are perfect for a hard-to-please reader who also respects shelf-curation. Inspired by the eponymous art movement, the pieces have a modernist feel and a versatile function.
Backgammon board by Giobagnara X Poltrona Frau
Backgammon sets can be hit-or-miss. But this one reaches another level entirely. It’s designed by cult Italian brand Giobagnara with Poltrona Frau — the two houses joined forces on projects that turn everyday playthings into exceptional leather artworks, and this one is a collector’s dream. The board is part of a range that includes sets for Chinese checkers, mah jong and dominos, crafted in Pelle Frau leather.
Ettore Sottsass monograph, edited by Phaidon
Ettore Sottsass’s work continues to have a lasting impact, inspiring designers, collectors and enthusiasts. Philippe Thomé authored this monograph, reissued by Phaidon, offering an in-depth look at the Italian architect’s extensive body of work. It features archival drawings and sketches, and covers more than 50 years of his career, through his architectural projects, product designs and ceramic, sculptural and graphic art.
Perspectives candle holder by Christofle
Tetris, but make it design. This modular candelabra, conceived by artist Mathias Kiss for the Parisian silverware house Christofle, is an ideal present for people with a penchant for playful twists. Part of the house’s Perspectives collection, it offers multiple sculptural configurations, so you can create your own unique centrepiece.
Nordic Knots by Eagle & Hodges
The interior design power duo of Eagle & Hodges has lent its impeccable taste and flair for colour to the Swedish handcrafted rug designer Nordic Knots. They tell stories like tapestries and capture the poetry and lyrical beauty of British gardens with muted colours and super-soft New Zealand wool.
Loafer chair by Space Copenhagen for &Tradition
More than merely a chair, this is an extremely versatile piece that will pull focus and set the tone in pretty much any room and any scheme. Designed by the multidisciplinary studio Space Copenhagen for Danish brand &Tradition, it provides a show-stopping gesture and a masterclass in elevating even the most minimalist interior. It’s available in an array of shades, from creamy beige to navy blue and lively red.
Living Room Set by Keith Haring for Bretz
Not your average under-the-tree holiday present, this matching set is part of a longtime collaboration between the German upholstered-furniture manufacturer Bretz and the Keith Haring Foundation, which turns the artist’s distinguished designs into functional objects for the home. Dating back to 1998, the seating makes a striking addition to a living space and also serves as a powerful tribute to Haring’s artistic trajectory — much more than the street art he was known for.
