If you’ve got a friend who’s moving house, or know that a relative has been yearning for the perfect ornament to put on her side table, you’ll have to venture into the difficult arena of the house gift. The house gift isn’t ephemeral – it’s not a box of chocolates that will be scoffed, or a bottle of fizz that will be gulped down. The house gift is something that will adorn the recipients house for many years to come – so it’s got to be just right… Here’s how to buy the perfect house gift.
AESTHETIC OR PRACTICAL?
Although giving your friends gifts that you found on your last weekend antiquing might be a sweet idea – the reality is they might not be needed/wanted at this stage of their lives. How old are the people you’re buying for? If they’re a young married couple don’t be afraid to buy something boring but practical; appliances, fine bed linens, soaps, candles etc. If those that you’re buying for are older and will have all of that sort of stuff, buy something more unique and more heartfelt.
KNOW THE PERSON THAT YOU’RE BUYING FOR
It might sound obvious but it’s essential to know the persona that you’re buying for really well. Does he love animals? He’ll almost certainly enjoy anything animal themed that you give him. Did her geography teacher give her the creeps? Perhaps it’s better not get her that antique map. Do your research and you’ll reap the rewards when the delight shows on the face of the receiver(s).
MAKE SURE YOU’VE SEEN THE INTERIOR OF THEIR HOME
An early 19th century mirror with a gilded frame might seem like the most fabulous present in your eyes but it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’ll fit into the aesthetics of the home you’re buying for. These days people often maintain a certain theme or style within their home and so it’s important to visit just before you buy your house gift, to get inspiration from the theme of the home. Likewise, it’s also important to understand the dimensions of the home – a life-size replica of the statue of David won’t go down well with a pair of Londoners who live in pokey flat in Shepard’s Bush.
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
Often imagination, or lack thereof, is the biggest obstacle to getting a decent house gift. Those with too much money are often inclined to get something opulent but unsuitable – while those short on money buy things which are a bit well… rubbish. A quick perusal of the ever informative internet reveals a plethora of the best left field and quirky house gifts; everything from a personalised cutting board to a QR code for the house’s WiFi password, it seems like there’s no excuse for buying a gift which isn’t up to scratch.
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