29 Gifts for Every Type of Design Lover You Know

Nov 20, 2024 By Vasia Rigou

In the inaugural IIDA gift guide, we share a spectrum of gifts for people who love design—from chic parents to history buffs to literature lovers

By Vasia Rigou Nov 20, 2024

Published in Articles

’Tis the season: Welcome to our first-ever holiday gift guide—the beginning of a new IIDA tradition!

Think of this as your go-to resource for finding the perfect gift for every design lover on your list. From budget-friendly finds to splurge-worthy statement pieces, we’ve curated 29 picks to satisfy even the pickiest recipients. From little luxuries for self-care to playful treats for little ones and eye-catching objects destined to elevate any space, this guide is packed with gifts that bring joy, beauty, wonder, and a hearty dash of good design into everyone’s life.

Below you’ll find stocking stuffers and show-stopping gifts we think are worth giving—and the specific type of design lover we believe each gift might delight.

For the puzzle enthusiast who loves a mindful moment

Mindfulness Puzzle by Jessica Poundstone

Looking for a daily meditative activity to keep you grounded—and that’s also kind of fun? Jessica Poundstone’s set of seven mini puzzles, inspired by color sensation, minimalism, and the “Light and Space” art movement, invites you to see art as self-care—just like the Portland, Oregon-based artist does herself.

$25, havenwellwithin.com

For the design aficionado who appreciates organic forms (and Alvar Aalto)

Iittala Aalto Moss Green Vase

Designed by renowned Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto in 1936, this famed glass vase’s organic form may draw inspiration from Finland’s watery landscapes, or from the leather breeches of an indigenous Sami woman (no one knows for sure). The moss green hue adds a natural touch and enhances its sculptural presence, making it a versatile statement of Scandinavian design.

$249.99, aaltousa.com

For the history buff who’s into graphic design

Graphic Classics, by Phaidon editors

Graphic design devotees, especially those who love history, will devour this collection of 500 incredible designs dating back to the 14th century. Featuring work from more than 400 designers across 33 countries, Graphic Classics, written by Phaidon editors, dives into designs ranging from the Gutenberg Bible to Joy Division album art.

$89.95, phaidon.com

For the host who thinks even their coasters should make a statement

MoMA Lily Pad Drink Coasters

Why settle for ordinary when your (or your loved one’s) tabletop can dazzle? Designed by MoMA-exhibited designer Aruliden, these tiny sculptures, crafted to nest and overlap, encourage you (or your guests) to experiment with shape and color. They blend practicality with a touch of whimsy—proving that even the smallest details in a home can make a big design statement.

$28, store.moma.org

For the pawsitively stylish pet

Zara Home Water-Repellent Pet Raincoat

Keep your furry friend dry in style with this sleek, functional, and oh-so-chic raincoat. Designed to help our four-legged loved ones brave rainy days with flair, it’s the perfect gift for dog parents who believe their pets deserve great design, too.

$49.90, zarahome.com

For the skincare lover who wants holiday magic, one product at a time

Typology Advent Calendar

This beautifully curated advent calendar, designed by Erwan Bouroullec, brings 24 days of self-care with clean, sustainable skincare treasures. From serums to creams and nourishing masks, each day reveals a new product crafted to enhance any routine—perfect for the skincare lover who deserves a season of pampering!

$279.90, typology.com

For the sporty soul who insists even their gear be chic

Jonathan Adler Eden Pickleball Set

Up your loved one’s pickleball game—or your own—with this pickleball set by Jonathan Adler. Featuring striking serpent designs and leather-wrapped handles, these paddles blend style and performance. Complete with printed canvas covers, it’s the ideal gift for the player who loves a touch of luxe on the court.

$175, jonathanadler.com

For the fiery friend who appreciates a spark of luxury

Archivist Gallery Luxury Matches

If you happen to know a matchbox collector—or just a friend drawn to flames—this tiger-adorned luxury matchbox from UK-based Archivist Gallery will add wild character to any space. Using traditional letterpress printing and collaborating with artists worldwide, the brand seeks to bring a creative twist to everyday items. Light ’em up!

$28, porta-nyc.com

For the chic parent who will not succumb to kiddie decor

Flensted Lundström 1932 Mobile

This elegant mobile from Flensted Hanging Art would bring a dash of minimalist style to any nursery, captivating little ones with gentle, mesmerizing movement. Designed by Philip Bro and Thomas Krause, it’s perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to baby’s first space (or any space). Did we mention that each piece is assembled by hand by craftsmen in Funen, Denmark?

$65.75, flensted-art-us.com

For the glow-getter who loves soft lighting

Lucienne Amber Glass Table Lamp by Goop

From the much-anticipated (and much-obsessed-over) Goop and CB2 collaboration, this amber glass lamp exudes modern Parisian-inspired elegance with its glass globe and solid unlacquered brass base, which will develop a patina over time. Character meets sleek style as the lamp casts a warm glow.

$149, cb2.com

For the host who knows variety is the spice of life—and drinks!

Traga Martini Shot Glasses

Serve up style with this sleek, bifunctional glass set—equal parts martini and shot glass! Hand-blown from durable borosilicate glass in bold color combinations—think blue/pink, teal/blue, and amber/lilac—this set by Milan-based designer Daniel Nikolovski adds Italian flair to every toast.

$173, traga.it

For the protein girlie who prefers her eggs served in style

Porta Natalia Egg Cup Set

Elevate any protein queen’s (or king’s) breakfast experience with this glazed terracotta egg cup set. Handcrafted in Portugal’s São Pedro do Corval—a region renowned for its rich tradition of wheel-thrown pottery—these cups add a touch of artisanal charm to any table.

$28, porta-nyc.com

For the entertainer who won’t stand for dull tableware

Selena Liu Serving Friends Spoons + Large Nashi Home Tortoise Shell Resin Bowl

Make every leafy meal a little more magical with this resin bowl and playful serving spoons. The pairing brings style and joy to the table—perfect for design lovers who see dining itself as an art form.

$40, areaware.com; $105 (large bowl), food52.com

For anyone who wants their caffeine with a side of visual interest

Alessi Pulcina Espresso Coffee Maker

Coffee lovers, this one’s for you. Designed by Michele De Lucchi, the elegant Pulcina (meaning “chick” in Italian) moka pot combines Alessi’s aesthetic with illycaffè’s coffee expertise. The coffee maker is crafted to enhance espresso’s aroma, while the beak-shaped spout ensures a precise pour.

$100, us.alessi.com

For the candle lover who craves a little whimsy

Cereria Introna Food Candles

Add a whimsical touch to any home with this handcrafted mushroom-shaped candle. Not into mushrooms? Don’t fret—Cereria Introna, the Italian, family-owned company with over 180 years of candle-making experience, also offers charming pear and egg-shaped candles. Safe to say, they all look delicious!

$20, store.moma.org

For the style icon who treats every second like a fashion statement

Chanel Première Sound Watch

For the gift-giver with a Kardashian-level budget, the Chanel Première Sound Watch—which manages to tell time, play music, and exude high style simultaneously—is sure to wow your intended recipient. The watch features a steel necklace coated with 18-karat yellow gold, black leather, a black-lacquered dial, and removable wired earbuds from Master & Dynamic.

$14,700, chanel.com

For the game lover who believes everything is better in color

MoMA Colorful Backgammon

Bring a colorful surprise to game night with this beautifully crafted beechwood backgammon set. Featuring sleek lines and premium materials, it reimagines a classic game as a work of art, inviting you to experience strategy and style in equal measure. A statement piece, no doubt.

$115, store.moma.org

For the fashion fanatic who secretly loves beanbag chairs

Bottega Veneta Animal Lounge Chairs

Is it an animal? A beanbag chair? High-end design? Check, check, and check! Bottega Veneta’s animal poufs draw inspiration from the iconic Zanotta Sacco; crafted in luxurious nappa leather with playful, artful details, this collection includes 15 animal and insect types.

$7,500-$10,000, bottegaveneta.com

For the literature enthusiast who likes to be on time

Author Clock

For the literature lover in your life—who also happens to be prompt, or striving for timeliness—the Author Clock is an ideal present. Designed by Jose Cardona and Luke Gray, the clock draws from thousands of quotes, with a new literary snippet for each minute of the day. It’s a lovely, literary way to approach telling time.

$199, authorclock.com

For anyone who thinks classic games deserve a celestial twist

Fredericks & Mae Phases of the Moon Dominoes

Who needs dots when you can have moon phases? This celestial take on classic dominoes brings a unique twist to game night. Fun fact: The oldest known domino set is said to have been discovered in Tutankhamun’s (aka King Tut’s) tomb—who knew ancient Egyptians loved games, too?

$40, fredericksandmae.com

For anyone who lives in a walk-up

Rolser Stair-Climbing Rolling Cart

Good design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function, too. For your loved ones living in a walk-up, life can be hard, especially when they’ve got groceries. Make their days easier with this roomy, stair-climbing(!) cart. It’s big enough to fit groceries, laundry, and other essentials, so they can say goodbye to schlepping—and hello to strolling (or rather, rolling).

$159 for the Essential Market Cart, food52.com

For the little dreamer who just might be the next Kusama

Yayoi Kusama Covered Everything in Dots and Wasn't Sorry, by Fausto Gilberti

It’s never too early to introduce little ones to the dynamic world of contemporary art, and what better way than with this book about Yayoi Kusama, renowned for her iconic dot-covered creations? With whimsical illustrations and clever storytelling, the book captures Kusama’s journey—and may inspire a young creative’s own adventures.

$17.95, phaidon.com

For the pal who’s into postcards

Marimekko Postcard Box

Brighten a beloved letter-writer’s day with Marimekko. This vibrant postcard collection celebrates the Finnish brand’s signature style, featuring bold patterns and bright colors that are perfect for sending personalized notes or framing as mini art pieces.

$22.22, amazon.com

For the style maven with a soft spot for Italian interiors

The Italian Interiors of Elsa Peretti, photographed by Estelle Hanania

Dive into the intimate world of hailed jewelry designer Elsa Peretti, known for her work with Tiffany & Co., through photography and essays. Step into the late Peretti’s two Italian homes—a stately penthouse apartment in Rome and a 16th-century watchtower overlooking the sea in Porto Ercole—with a book that captures the timeless elegance of an icon’s private world.

55 euro (approximately $58), apartamentomagazine.com

For the home cook who likes simple seasoning—and geometric shapes

Bodum Geo Salt & Pepper Grinder Set

This salt and pepper grinder set brings back a 1991 Bodum design in solid beechwood. With a natural wood cone for salt and a black-lacquered globe for pepper, each piece of the set features accents that mirror the other (take a close look at the handles). It’s the perfect gift for the friend or relative who loves to cook and excelled at geometry.

$49, store.moma.org

For the goal-setter, daydreamer, or anyone eager to begin their next chapter

Papier Wonder Hardcover Plain Notebook

More than just a journal, this notebook invites the writer to embrace fresh beginnings. With its pleasing design and high-quality paper, it’s the perfect canvas for thoughts, plans, and dreams. Plus the cheerful color combinations add a dash of positivity—who’s ready to turn over a new leaf?

$30, papier.com

For the Verner Panton stan who likes pink

Georg Jensen Glass Panton Tray

Whether used as a centerpiece or for serving (yes, it’s food-safe), this vibrant Verner Panton tray designed for Georg Jensen brings experimental energy to any setting. A reissue of the iconic 1988 design, it captures Panton’s daring approach to color, shape, and materials—plus it’s hand-molded and engraved with his signature. Need one in every color, please!

$209, georgjensen.com

For the candle fan who’s into seasonal scents and metallic tints

Boy Smells Holiday Votive Set

Set the holiday mood right! Featuring four unique scents—Broken Rosary, Incensorial, Holiday Smells, and Hinoki Fantôme—this Boy Smells candle bundle brings satisfying fragrance with a metallic gleam. Perfect for gifting or indulging in cozy, aromatic ambiance.

$85, boysmells.com

For the homebody who prizes a good throw—and a marble pattern

Ugg Home Duffield Throw II

Winter is coming, and cozy nights by the fireplace just got cozier. This ultra-soft, double-faced fleece blanket offers warmth, style, and softness—an essential for any design lover’s sanctuary. Bonus: It’s machine-washable.