The items, especially those we own and surround us, not only represent commodities, but also a tangible manifestation of our desires and needs. They hold value in themselves, but at the same time, they carry what we might call an “added value”, which can be emotional, symbolic or cultural. The importance of giving gifts at Christmas fits right into this context. Gifts, indeed, matter more for the value we attribute to them and it is the intentionality of the gesture that makes them truly precious. Here, a selection of items compiled by our editorial team.
Bollicine by Venini (on cover)
Elegant rose powder champagne glasses signed by Venini, the Bollicine are made using the ancient technique of blown glass. The perfect choice to grace the Christmas table with unique splendor, typical of Venetian glass art.
Espresso Manuale by Smeg
The Manual Espresso ECF02RDEU coffee machine from Smeg is a triumph of vintage style and modern functionality. Its characteristic 50’s Style aesthetic, combined with a bold red color, adds a retro touch to the kitchen. At an affordable price, it brings the quality of espresso coffee from the café at home.
Stocksessel by Gebrüder Thonet Vienna
At the same time a walking stick and a folding stool, this fascinating article returns in a reissue steeped in historical charm. Made of bent beech, a seat made of Vienna straw results, which connects three curved elements. The handle, modeled as a swan’s neck, serves as a backrest. History tells us that the object was purchased by Elisabeth of Austria, known as Princess Sissi, in the famous Strauchgasse, a symbol of Viennese shopping. From that moment, the stick has never left its travels in Europe.
“Echoes, Cassina. 50 Years of iMaestri” by Rizzoli
Edited by Ivan Mietton with the artistic direction of Nicola Aguzzi of Undo-Redo, “Echoes, Cassina. 50 Years of iMaestri” is a book published by Rizzoli. The volume offers an in-depth analysis of the world of design through the contributions of six international experts – Barbara Lehmann, Domitilla Dardi, Beatriz Colomina and Mark Wigley, Céline Saraïva and Jane Withers-, while the photos of Delfino Sisto Legnani, Mattia Balsamini, Tommaso Sartori and Scheltens & Abbenes and Sarah van Rij & David van der Leeuwi enrich the narration.
Oriente Italiano Gold by Ginori 1735
A bold table collection that blends the elegance of Antico Doccia Ginori lines and the floral charm of the Carnation, typical of Faenza ceramics, with the explosion of colors that characterizes the pieces of Ginori Oriente Italiano Gold. A gift for those who love to challenge conventions.
Ongo by Contardi Lighting, design Jessica Corr for Tzelan
The new edition of the portable table lamp Ongo Rouge, born from the collaboration with Jessica Corr and Tzelan, adds a Christmas and magical touch to any space. Thanks to a very competitive price (260,00 euro), it aims to satisfy a wide and attentive audience, making it the ideal Christmas gift for design lovers.
Dondolina by Bottega Intreccio, design Antonio Aricò
With its tobacco-colored reed base and metal reed backrest, Dondolina evokes images of ancient thrones and Mediterranean roofs. Light, solids and voids create an elegant design, while the slender armrest wraps the backrest gently, enriched by three artistic pillows created by Antonio Aricò.
Guframini Cactus® by Gufram, design Drocco/Mello
A miniature reproduction of the legendary Cactus®, an icon of radical design. Gufram has recreated the original designed by Drocco/Mello in 1972, including the 2165 creased areas that adorn the stem and arms of the coat hanger in the mini mold. The color reflects the original green, the result of a meticulous study. This reduced and limited edition version offers design addicts the possibility of having a historical piece, which is now sold out in original scale.
Metrochic by Villeroy & Boch
MetroChic is a cosmopolitan tableware collection in white, black, and gold. The modern and geometric décor adorns the refined Premium Bone Porcelain. The 20-carat gold finish, hand-polished, is made perfect thanks to innovative Inglaze Gold technology.
La Dieta Perfetta by Demoela, design Studiolabo
Published by Demoela and born from the synergy between Studiolabo and the Policlinico di Milano, “La Dieta Perfetta” (The Perfect Diet) is a smart board game for learning to eat better. By combining game design and scientific dissemination, the game aims to spread food knowledge in a fun and engaging way, confirming the innovative approach of the Policlinico di Milano, led by Monica Cremonesi. The game’s design is cared for by Studiolabo, with Cristian Confalonieri as the author and illustrations by Serena Mazzi.
Malmö by Lanerossi
A versatile blanket and ideal for a gift, made from 100% pure extrafine virgin wool. Its captivating geometric design and thin border adorned with an elegant saddle stitch pay tribute to color and form. Available in five color variants, it has a velvety and ultra-soft finish.
Crash Baggage
“Handle without care” and without fear of ruining them is the motto of Crash Baggage, a brand that expresses the creativity of fashion in the world of travel accessories. These suitcases must be indestructible and attractive despite ill-treatment during travels. They are a great way to wish friends a future full of new horizons.
Hevea by Pedrali, design Victoria Azadinho Bocconi
Ideal for a person with green thumbs, Hevea is a versatile pot holder consisting of a steel base and six polypropylene pots. The pots can be easily attached to the pot holder and can be placed in a spiral or opposite each other. All elements of Hevea are separable for ease of cleaning and proper disposal.
Filare 24 by Giorgetti, design Giancarlo Bosio
The latest addition to the Atmosphere collection, comprising unique items that explore the many facets of everyday life, the elegant leather wine bottle holder Filare 24 is made with a structure in ruthenium titanium and is internally divided into two compartments, each of which can contain a bottle, kept at a constant temperature thanks to the thermal interior. If personalized by printing the chosen name or initials of the desired person, it becomes a perfect gift.
“Norman Foster” by Taschen
A guided tour through the masterpieces of architecture giant Norman Foster: from the Millennium Bridge to Apple Park. The first part of this imposing monograph stands out for its rich assortment of unique images and sketches, personally selected by Foster, while the second part hosts eight autograph essays in which the architect reveals his sources of inspiration. For real connoisseurs.
