The Gift of Modern

Design classics make great gifts. We love pieces that are just as relevant and inspiring now as the day they were first dreamed up. Here are a few modern yet timeless gift ideas for all the people on your list.

For the devoted host:
Heller Dinnerware by Massimo Vignelli

These were instant classics the day they were first made in 1964 by the Italian designer. Originally manufactured in Italy, they’re now made in the U.S. from the same original molds. Heller plates and bowls are loved for their look and adaptability; they’re equally at ease as casual breakfast staples as well as statement dinner-party pieces. And while, sure they will wow any guest, they’re most appreciated by their owner because of their stack-ability. Each fit right into the next, saving cabinet space.

Vignelli once said, “I like to design to be semantically correct, syntactically consistent and pragmatically understandable.” This is certainly true of Heller Dinnerware, one of our everlasting fan favorites.

For the coffee connoisseur:
EM77 Vacuum Jug by Erik Magnussen

First presented in 1977, this is still the jug of choice for design fans that love their hot drinks hot, and cold drinks cold. The glass vacuum bottle liner keeps its contents at an ideal temperature for up to 8 hours. And the airtight design includes a rocker stopper and screw cap for easy portability. We’re not the only ones taking note: This tall cylindrical stunner received the ID prize from the Danish Society of Industrial Design in 1977.

Copenhagen-born Magnussen was educated as a ceramicist and his products have several times received the ID-prize by the Danish Society of Industrial Design.

Available in Black, Chrome, Gold, Granite, and White.

For the tea expert:
Kaico Enamel Water Kettle by Makoto Koizumi

Tokyo-based Koizumi created a whole cookware series. But the standout is this simple and elegant water kettle made from enamel-coated steel, with a beechwood handle and maple knob. Its thermal-efficient design retains heat, while its semi-gloss finish is made for easy cleaning.

At work for some 25 years, Koizumi was known originally for his architectural projects, but shifted focus to industrial design as a way to influence lives on a more human level.

For the nature lover:
Gather Clear Vases by Sam Anderson

These shapely vases help bring the outdoors in. With three sizes (small, medium and large) there are opportunities to showcase all kinds of blossoms or bunches. While these clear vases look ever-so delicate, they’re constructed to last from borosilicate glass.

Anderson is a New York-based product designer. Her work explores the ways in which form and pattern affect the utility of the things we live with.

For the bold seeker:
Omaggio Vase by Ditte Reckweg and Jelena Schou Nordentoft

Manufactured by the Danish brand Kähler, this modern ceramic vase is a subtle re-imaging of classic nautical stripes. Black and white create yin-yang visual interest and meld well with any design scheme. They are, in effect, the new neutrals.

Reckweg and Nordentoft graduated from Denmark’s design school as production designers. Today they run their own store, Stilleben, while also designing their own product lines and products for other Danish brands.

Available in Black, Pearl, and Silver.

For the modern minimalist:
Mono Wall Clock and Plywood Wall Clock by Lemnos

Time keeping shouldn’t be overcomplicated. These Japan-made clocks are for those who agree, as they’re all about clean lines and simple framing. Some compare Mono, which has a striking aluminum finish to a keyboard. Plywood, on the other hand, is noted for receiving the Good Life Long Life Design Award in 2013.

Lemnos is a Japanese maker known for modern and minimal clocks. It began in Shirogane-machi, Takaoka, in 1947 as a brass raw casting manufacturer of Buddhist altar fittings for Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. In 1963, the factory was transferred to Hayakawa 511, Takaoka, the present site of the headquarters.

For the avid entertainer:
Grid Round Trays by Unison