Here at House & Garden, we spend all of our time looking at beautiful houses and the interesting things curated within them. From contemporary to classic, our archive spans so many diverging styles of interior, as well as the stories, designers and creatives behind them. With this in mind, we've put together a selection of delightful Christmas presents for around the home according to six different ‘interior identities’, enabling you to avoid being generic when it comes to gifting homeware this year. Think of it like one of those quizzes in a teen magazine to discover which personality you are, or which style you have. Considering somebody's specific tastes and decoration themes around their living space results in a more personal, thoughtful gift that will be appreciated and used or displayed, rather than gathering dust at the back of a cupboard, never to be seen again.
Bloomsbury romantic
For those who like a touch of whimsy and romance in their interiors, this edit is best suited to someone whose dream house is Charleston, the famed Sussex house where several of the Bloomsbury group resided. Think hand-painted elements, feminine pastel tones and a healthy dose of eccentric English country house charm.
.png)
.png)
At the other end of the style spectrum, Scandi minimalism is represented by pared back, cool tones, with materials such as stainless steel or chrome, wood and rumpled linen coming together to create spaces that strike a balance between utilitarian and cosy.
Maximalism
It goes without saying that maximalists feel at home amongst a riot of layered pattern and colour, knick knacks on surfaces and eclectic art on walls. Unafraid to be bold, a maximalist would appreciate a gift with a big personality - opt for something with a loud print, or a brightly coloured accessory with an interesting shape.
.png)
Mid-century
When thinking about mid-century style, it's easy to focus on architecture and designer furniture. Though there are many gifting opportunities to be had for a mid-century modern enthusiast, from coffee table books on key figures of the movement, to clocks, lamps and accessories for the kitchen. Some of these are inspired by mid-century design, while others, like the Vitra clock, were designed by key figures of the era.
Traditional
For those who like to keep it classic, we're thinking of smart and cosy gifts for someone who enjoys trekking to the best antiques fairs to uncover their next treasure, who looks to the likes of William Morris or Antoinette Poisson for their furnishing fabrics, and prefers rich neutrals and intricate prints.
.png)
.png)
For art lovers
This person may be an artist themselves, or simply likes to express their personality through a playful, creative and eclectic interior. Add to their gallery wall by gifting a poster or frame, or choose an accessory that subtly nods towards art history, à la Anglepoise and Paul Smith's de Stijl-inspired lamp.
