Housewarming Gift Guide

by Marianne Bahalla
An image of a housewarming party

We’ve all been there. A friend or relative shares the news that they’ve bought or rented a new home or are downsizing after years in the same place. Your initial reaction is excitement, followed quickly by the realization that you’ll need to buy a housewarming gift.

Chances are, you fall into one of two groups – those who love shopping for gifts and those who find it a daunting task. If you’re in the latter group, don’t stress. The perfect gift is out there and finding it doesn’t need to eat up a lot of your time and energy or break the budget. Here are some tips to help focus your search.

An Illuminating Approach
Giving a housewarming gift can be traced back to medieval times when firewood was given to literally “warm the house.” While a bundle of wood might still be a practical gift for some, giving a beautiful home accessory will likely be met with more enthusiasm and will serve as an enduring reminder of your thoughtfulness.

If you’re looking to continue the tradition of gifting a warm glow, consider a chic table lamp, like the Javan. This 26 inch metal lamp looks great paired with a vintage Edison bulb and has an industrial-inspired look that is right on trend.

Candles are another popular choice for housewarming gifts. To make plain pillar candles a little more special, and to give your gift more permanence, pair them with a beautiful tray. The Posy tray has a warm, metallic finish that reflects candlelight and adds a touch of glam to a coffee table or shelf!

If the recipient’s new home has an outdoor space, they’ll appreciate a pair of Dimtrois Lanterns to light up the night. With clean, modern lines and wind-blocking glass sides, these sleek lanterns look right at home, indoors or out.  

Creature Comfort
Soft, cozy accessories not only add texture and personality to a room, they make coming home – and staying home – irresistible. If you’re not sure of your recipient’s style or they lean towards the traditional, you can’t go wrong with a woven, neutral throw like the easy-care Yasmin in soft, waffle-textured cotton. For the more adventurous, splash out with the Ambrea – a luxe throw in sumptuous faux-fur that looks like a million bucks, but won’t break the bank.

And, if we’re talking about cozy, inviting accessories, we must talk about accent pillows. They are affordable, necessary and, like throws, make great housewarming gifts. If you’re having trouble choosing, select one that makes you smile – chances are, the recipient will smile, too. (Hint: We think that the Caiden sums up 2020 beautifully.)

The Practical Angle

If you’re a pragmatic sort by nature, you’re in luck – there’s still a whole category of gifts to explore: home organization. Practical, for sure, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still be stylish with your selections.

A large, heavily textured catch-all, like these soft-sided Braydon baskets in durable braided jute, are a simple, but attractive solution to kids’ toys, craft supplies, magazines and general clutter throughout the home. Similar in size, the Parish basket set takes it up a notch by combining indigo blue cotton with braided jute for a cool, Boho look.

Finally, here’s a housewarming gift idea that will hook you – a handy rack featuring five sturdy iron hooks that can be used to restore order to the entryway, bedroom or bathroom.Text

Above all, remember that it truly is the thought that counts. If you shop from the heart, your thoughtful gesture will be welcomed and appreciated.

For more great gift ideas, or maybe something to treat yourself, check out this selection of wall art and décor.