Holiday Gift Guide

Gift Ideas from a New Homeowner

Assistant Photo Editor Alexis Tjian: At work I am constantly in front of my computer, doing photo research and working on stories. I've definitely scrolled through my fair share of blogs and drooled over the swag so wonderfully flashed in front of me! I recently bought my first house, so I am always on the lookout for the new, fun, cool item to enhance the space that I call home, and well... here is my list of the things I covet most and would be thrilled to receive as a gift this holiday season. I hope you enjoy my picks, happy shopping!

Plant Pod

Designed by: Amy Adams
Made by: Perch!
Price: $96.00
More Info: perchdesign.net

It drains. It holds. It’s two, two, two pods in one! Put your indoor plant in this hanging piece and water it without worrying about drip stains on the hardwood. Leather cords provide a classy update on Granny’s macramé.

Japanese Masking Tape

Available at: happytape!
More Info: happytape.bigcartel.com

I have been obsessed with this tape ever since I saw it on Oh Joy. Since then I found a great source for it in the US and have bought several sets; It is a great gift for a crafty person who likes to make cards, wrap presents and generally spice things up! Watch out...you will get hooked.

Diana Mini Camera

Available at: Lomography
Price: $60.00
More Info: usa.shop.lomography.com

This smaller version of the classic Diana Camera is a great gift for any photo enthusiast. It uses standard 35mm film but has the ability to shoot square format, half frames, long exposures, and can fit up to 72 frames on a single roll. I love the color and shape of the oversized flash head.

Lin Pod Bench

Made by: De La Espada
Price: $2,245.00
More Info: delaespada.com

I have been very into furniture/planters recently—especially eyeing mid-century modern pieces that go in the entry way—and I love this new piece by Leif.designpark for De La Espada. It is a gorgeous bench that is only enhanced by the addition of a beautiful plant—your choice of course! Would be great in an entry where you could plop down to take shoes on and off.

Dutch Door Press Calendars and Art Prints

Designed by: Dutch Door Press
More Info: dutchdoorpress.com

Mara Murphy and Anna Branning are local San Francisco designers who make up Dutch Door Press. I have been eyeing their wall calendars, state bird art prints and chinese zodiac prints. These colorful prints are hot off the press.

Penguin Classics New Clothbound Series

Made by: The Penguin Group
More Info: us.penguingroup.com

These brilliant books caught my eye back in August on Design Sponge, though at that point I was not sure how easy they would be to get in the US. The set of classic novels are beautifully designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith and bound in vibrant colors. With a little searching it looks like they became available on Amazon in late October, though individually and not as a set. They would make an incredible gift for someone, I know I want a whole row on my bookshelf. Time to catch up on the classics.

Wooden Glasses

Designed by: Shwood Eyewear
Price: $95.00
More Info: shop.shwoodshop.com

I am digging these wooden frames by Shwood. They are Ray-Ban-esque with a twist, available in 3 different types of wood. Reminds me of a 60’s surfer and his board....duuude.

The Sartorialist Book

Made by: The Penguin Group
More Info: us.penguingroup.com

Scott Schuman, otherwise known as the The Sartorialist, is my favorite blogger. His portraits of regular people on the streets sporting their own, wonderful fits are the highlight of my day. I am whisked away to a Milan street or a summer day in Brooklyn and see the beauty in people’s individual style. He has just put out his first book and I think this would be a great gift for a fashion or photography enthusiast.

Striped Onesie

Designed by: Marimekko
Price: $46.00
Colors: Black, White
More Info: marimekko.fi

Don’t know about you, but there is a serious baby boom going on in my world. This Marimekko striped onesie would make a great baby gift for any new parent and baby. Start them out in style.