The best holiday gifts, in my opinion, are the ones that make people say, “Oh my gosh, how did you know I needed this?”even when they definitely did not need it, but now can’t imagine living without it. I’m forever drawn to gifts that feel thoughtful and timeless, the kind of beautifully made pieces that quietly upgrade someone's daily routine without screaming for attention.

As an interior designer, I firmly believe a great gift should bring a little more warmth into the home, spark a tiny burst of joy every time it’s used, and ideally make guests say, “Wait, where did you get that?” These picks are perfect for the design lover who appreciates craftsmanship, a curated lifestyle, and the thrill of owning something that feels just a little too nice for everyday life yet will absolutely going to use it anyway because they’re just that good.

Handblown Murano Glass Tumblers

Handblown Murano glass is one of those pieces designers love because it instantly makes a home feel traveled and intentional. The color variations, the weight of the glass, the artistry behind each piece bring a collected, European sensibility to any tablescape. These tumblers from Rebecca Udall look beautiful stacked on open shelving or set out for cocktails, and they offer that perfect balance of functional and special. A gift that reads as personal, not generic.

Luxury holiday gift guide interior design european tumblers — *Courtesy of Rebecca Udall*

Elevated Decorative Boxes

Designers constantly reach for shagreen because it adds quiet texture without overwhelming a space. AERIN’s version feels elevated and sophisticated which makes it perfect for styling a console, vanity, or nightstand. It tucks away remotes, jewelry, or keepsakes while still feeling sculptural. This is the kind of gift that makes a home look instantly more tailored and thoughtfully layered.

Luxury holiday gift guide interior design aerin lauder — *Courtesy of AERIN*

Italian Marble Trays

A marble tray is a foundational styling tool we love to use when designing a home. They can easily anchor a bar setup, corrals bathroom essentials, or even elevates everyday kitchen items. The weight and veining in this piece by Williams Sonoma give it a luxe feel, and because it’s such a clean shape, it plays well with practically any design style.

Luxury holiday gift guide interior design williams sonoma — *Courtesy of Williams Sonoma*

Cashmere Throw

A neutral cashmere throw is a designer go-to because it softens a room and immediately adds warmth. Draped over a sofa or folded at the foot of a bed, these Williams Sonoma throws come in a variety of colors depending on your recipient’s home and can create that effortless, layered look clients always ask for. Cashmere also ages beautifully, which makes it a timeless, investment-level gift that feels both luxurious and useful.

Luxury holiday gift guide interior design cashmere blanket — *Courtesy of Williams Sonoma*

Framed Vintage Artwork or Small Landscape Paintings

Nothing adds soul to a home faster than vintage art. The patina, the muted tones, the sense of quiet history give even the most modern room depth and character. A small landscape is incredibly versatile, whether layered on a shelf, hung in a hallway, or styled above a dresser. Chairish offers multiple options that feels personal, thoughtful, and decidedly designer-approved.

Luxury holiday gift guide interior design framed chairish — *Courtesy of Chairish*

Luxurious Scented Candles with Ceramic Vessels

Designers love pieces that do double duty, and this candle from Le Labo delivers. The fragrance is elevated, but the real win is the concrete vessel. Its architectural silhouette adds structure to a coffee table or console, and once the candle is finished, it becomes a chic container for matches, pens, or florals after being a sculptural upgrade from the typical holiday candle.

Luxury holiday gift guide interior design candle le labo — *Courtesy of Le Labo*

Sculptural Serving Pieces

Sculptural brass and gold has a way of making even the simplest objects feel storied and glamorous. This serving set from Hudson & Vine bring that European, collected energy to any dinner party. It’s the kind of piece that turns a simple salad or pasta dish into a moment and feels far more special than standard tabletop gifts. A choice for a host who loves beauty as much as good food.

Luxury Server Wear holiday gift guide interior design — *Courtesy of Hudson & Vine*

A Coffee Table Book with Strong Visual Style

Assouline books are a staple in designer styling for good reason. The bold spine, richly printed imagery, and overall presence layers beautifully on coffee tables, consoles, and built-ins. Italian Chic adds an extra touch of romance with its travel-meets-luxury aesthetic. A go-to for anyone who appreciates design, color, and escapism.

Coffee Table Book Gift Guide Assouline — *Courtesy of Assouline*

Interior Designer Approved Holiday Gift Guide