Interior Designers’ Favorite Gifts for the Home
Finding the perfect gift for someone's home can be a challenge. Here's a curated selection of items that Southern interior designers swear by for gift-gifting!
Given their profession, it’s no surprise that interior designers tend to be exceptional gift-givers. We asked a handful of respected interior designers throughout the South to share their top home decor gifts recommendations, and boy, did they pull through! Below, you’ll find a selection of fabulous items perfect for everyone on your list — from new homeowners to seasoned hostesses who seem to have everything.
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Pura Diffuser
Emily Forman of Moda Designs in Southaven, MS, loves gifting the Pura Diffuser. “It makes a perfect gift due to its customizable fragrance options and smart technology,” says Emily. “You can personalize your scent experience through the app, which offers a range of high-quality, long-lasting fragrances.” Its sleek design and ease of use also make it both stylish and practical.
Neutral Leather Coasters
Marcelle Guilbeau of Nashville’s Marcelle Guilbeau Interior Design believes that the best home gift is one that considers the receiver’s tastes, needs, and preferences. “If you’re unsure about their needs or style, I recommend keeping it neutral, natural (unscented!), and soft,” she advises. “One of my go-to gifts for clients is a set of neutral leather coasters.”
Rechargeable Table Lamps
Kristin Kong, from Atlanta-based interior design firm K Kong Designs, recommends a rechargeable table lamp as a top gifting choice. “Rechargeable table lamps are fantastic for adding ambiance to outdoor entertaining spaces, particularly at the center of outdoor dining areas,” she shares. “Plus, since they are rechargeable, there are no cords to manage, and they can be easily moved to suit your event.”
Linen Cocktail Napkins
Another suggestion from Kristin Kong is a set of unique linen cocktail napkins.”This set of Magic Mountain Cocktail Napkins from Schumacher is not only practical but also adds a vibrant pop of color and an element of fun!” she exclaims.
Engraved Pitcher
The team at Providence Interiors in Nashville, TN, shares that a favorite gift idea is this Jarron Girasol pitcher adorned with intricate sunflower engravings. “Add a touch of freshness by filling it with vibrant flowers, and complement the set with matching margarita glasses. The combination creates a lovely and useful gift,” says Corrie Hayes, Providence’s marketing and special events coordinator.
Rattan Wine Coaster
Mallory Mathison of Atlanta’s Mallory Mathison Inc. adores gifting this scalloped rattan wine coaster alongside her favorite bottle of wine as a summer-appropriate hostess present. “This elegant rattan wine coaster not only enhances the decor of any room but also adds a touch of eco-friendly style. And, it looks particularly chic when paired with a bottle of chilled rosé,” she says.
Luxury Candle
Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors in Nashville, enjoys giving others the Aix en Provence candle from etúHOME. “The sophisticated scents of rosemary and sage are the perfect blend, and the aroma stays consistently strong while not being overwhelming. When the candle has run its course, the hand-blown glass vessel can have a second life as a beautiful home accessory,” he tells us.
Personalized Coffee Table Book
A thoughtfully chosen coffee table book remains a classic for good reason. According to the Memphis-based City Hill Design team, selecting a book that aligns with the recipient’s interests — whether in travel, food, or nature — is key. “It’s about discovering the ideal connection between their passions and a crafted book that ignites their senses and inspires creativity,” Designer Amy Mobley explains.
Rimmed Vase
Anna Still of Birmingham, AL, design firm Still Johnson loves gifting one of her favorite home styling items: a pewter-rimmed vase. “The material and shape of this vase are timeless, yet the detailing is subtle, making it a perfect fit for both traditional and modern homes. We always include a simple arrangement of fresh flowers when presenting it as a gift,” she shares.
Book-Shelf Sized Art/Pottery
Consider gifting small, bookshelf-sized art from a small artist or ceramicist. These options not only last forever, but they support an artisan. Anthropologie has great gifting options, such as this storm cloud painting by creators Sara Beckley and Laura Else. Beth Haley of Nashville’s Beth Haley Design also highlights that each art piece holds a memory. “I always recall the story behind each piece in my home,” she shares.
Personalized Charcuterie Tray
Tavia Forbes and Monet Masters of the Atlanta-based interior design firm Forbes Masters love giving gifts that inspire entertaining, such as this personalized charcuterie board from Etsy. The handmade board is both cost-effective and thoughtful.
Keep these picks in mind next time you’re refreshing your home or looking for the perfect gift!
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Anne Henley Walker
Anne Henley is a University of Georgia graduate (Go Dawgs!) currently based in Atlanta. She's perpetually on the hunt for her new favorite restaurant.