When it comes to my holiday gift list, I always put a lot of thought into each item to make sure its something Id truly enjoy and use especially in my cozy (i.e. small) apartment. I think the same way when picking out a gift for someone else. I want any gift to feel purposeful, rather than adding clutter, and Id hate for anyones hard-earned money to go toward something that might go unused. With that in mind, my list of recommendations is a mix of practical essentials and a fun splurges I would be thrilled to gift or receive. Below, youll find a curated selection of ideas that have made it onto at least one of my wish lists over the years happy gifting!Arc Alarm Clock by Nanu \\\ $235Everyone needs a clock and some of us still require an alarm other than our phone to wake us up in the morning and this one does the trick. Merging analog, since they say the light on digital clocks can affect sleep, with the needs of modern times, this clock is a great option for any aesthete. It has a mechanical chime that gradually wakes you up and a hidden digital display to make setting the clock a breeze. Even though its made from premium materials, its also repairable making it built to last.Symmetry Dinnerware Collection by Studio/ JIALUN XIONG \\\ From $65Whether you know someone whos really into cooking for their family or loves hosting guests for dinner parties, chic dinnerware is a must. Not only does it make the food appear more appetizing, but it sets the tone of the space its being served in. This minimalist collection, which includes a plate, bowl, and cup, is adorned with dots, lines, circles, or squares resulting in symmetrical patterns juxtaposed on naturally flawed porcelain. The versatile pieces would work alongside a monochromatic tablescape just as easily as it would one adorned with lots of color.Great Jones x Fellow Kettle \\\ $195If this collaboration had been out a couple of years ago when I bought my Fellow electric kettle in black, I would have jumped on it. Its perfect for making hot tea or pour-over coffee, as it heats the water to the perfect temp in less than a minute. Its limited edition so if you know anyone who needs to up their coffee or tea game, this blueberry colored (plus pops of Raspberry and Mustard) kettle is such a great gift.Juno Carafe by NUDE Glass \\\ $118I may not need a carafe, but this one from NUDE Glass makes me think I do. The entire Juno Collection, which includes the carafe, a cake dome, mini serving plate, serving plate, and a set of glasses (sadly the glasses are sold out), is incredible all handmade from lead-free crystal in shades of opal grey, clear, and apricot. The carafe features an interlocking cylindrical vessel with an apricot colored top thats designed to look beautiful sitting on a kitchen counter, shelf, or on a bedside table whether in use or not.Essential Chrome 5-Piece Flatware Set by Sabre Paris via Unison \\\ $50Along with elevating the dinnerware, adding complementary flatware is a must. If you know anyone like me who had the same IKEA flatware for 15 years, this modern set is the perfect option to replace it. When I upgraded to this exact design, it made cooking and eating the prepared food feel so much better. The contemporary shapes work for takeout or weeknight dinners, but they also are stylish enough to be used at a dinner party.Chunky Cup + Saucer by Gustaf Westman \\\ $68 (Standard) $48 (Mini)Ive been in love with Gustaf Westmans Chunky series since I first spotted it on social media last year. The oversized silhouettes and curves are so playful and unique and I want them all, especially in pink. If you know anyone that loves fun ceramics or that enjoys a special cup for their morning brew, this one will definitely become their favorite.Polaroid Hi-Print 46 Photo Printer \\\ $150Do you know someone who misses actual photographs outside of their smartphone? This printer delivers postcard-size photos to anyone wanting to post friends and family on their fridge, add to a frame, or to catalog memories in a photo album. Its compact and makes printing easy direct from your phone. Theres even a free Hi-Print app where images can be personalized prior to printing.750-Piece Cake Puzzle by Piecework \\\ $42We all have at least one person in our life that loves puzzles and is always looking for a new one. This one from Piecework, who makes a ton of really cool puzzles, is colorful and super cute. If only it would magically become three dimensional and edible!POLSPOTTEN Multi Mix Caps & Jars Set of 3 \\\ $280Organization can be your best friend and when things are neatly contained in beautiful objects, suddenly its more than just storage. These colorful jars from Amsterdam-based POLSPOTTEN do just that by leaning more toward objets dart. Each mouth-blown piece comes in a different vibrant color creating a decorative set that your loved one will find joy using every day, whether in the kitchen for dry goods or in the bathroom for cotton balls. The set also comes in a more muted two-tone option for those that prefer it.Case Study Ceramics Birdhouse by Modernica \\\ $75For those that love watching birds or just enjoy spending time outside, this organic modern birdhouse would be an ideal addition to anyones outdoor space. It comes in four fat lava glaze colors Avocado, Blue, Orange, and White so theres an option for everyone, whether they want it to blend into the surrounding greenery or pop against it.Follow along so you dont miss any of our2024 Gift Guidesthis year!This post contains affiliate links, so if you make a purchase from an affiliate link, we earn a commission. Thanks for supporting Design Milk!