Last-minute Christmas gifts for the home under $50

Sometimes, it’s the tiny details that pack the greatest punch.

That’s why some of the most considerate gifts for the home aren’t confined to hefty price tags.

According to director of Studio Gorman Suzanne Gorman, when working with a small budget this Christmas, be thoughtful about the quality of the gift you’re buying.

“On a low budget I would try to go for something simple and high quality – don’t try to make the dollars stretch too far but seek out a gift that is the best in that category at $50,” she says.

Here, a handful of designers share their best picks for Christmas gifts for the home under $50, and one costing a bit more which was too lovely to resist.

Country Road Mera Brass Tray ($49.95)

This pick, courtesy of Suzanne Gorman of Studio Gorman, is “simple” but “beautiful”, the designer says.

“I love this simple tray from Country Road – it’s made of beautiful matte brass which gives a subtle glow and its use is versatile for the lucky receiver. It could be used in a bathroom to hold a candle, vase and pump soap dispenser. Or in the bedroom, it could be used beside the bed or to hold jewellery, or possibly as a desk hold-all.”

Dinosaur Designs Pipi Bowl ($60)

This pick from Suzanne Gorman is a little over the $50 mark, but the designer says it can be lovely to “receive objects that can be enjoyed for their beauty alone”.

“This resin Pipi Bowl in Ice Peach [oops, just over at $60] is a handmade sculptural piece that can find its way to a shelf or mantle and simply be enjoyed for its peachy luminosity and curvaceous shape. It would also cheer up any desk holding paper clips and Post-it notes, or as somewhere to place your watch and rings while you sleep.”

Oxfam Recycled Computer Box ($18.95)

According to Camilla Molders of Camilla Molders Design, one of her Christmas picks is this recycled computer box.

“This box is a really clever use of a materials, but it’s also a purchase knowing you have done a good thing in supporting the Oxfam shop and the charities they support. Boxes are great ways of keeping things in order but are also a great styling tool – they look great on a shelf or desk top.”

Marimekko hand towel ($37)

For Gorman, this towel is exactly what she means by “buying the best in the price range and category”.

“I would love to receive a boldly graphic Marimekko hand towel for the guest powder room. These items really do need refreshing every year and this one makes a fun statement that will bring a smile and style to the smallest room in the house.”

Safari Living Paper Vase ($35)

The Paper Vase by Safari Living acts as a skin-of-sorts to cover an empty glass or small bottle, turning it into a sculptured vase.

“A single flower in a beautiful sculptural vase makes a big statement for little coin,” Molders says of this pick. “Positioned on its own on a mantle piece with a single flower within, or the finishing touch on a side table full of books and ornaments, it’s a beautiful touch.”

Cool Cactus medium-sized cactus ($48)

According to Melbourne-based interior designer Meredith Lee, you can’t go past a good pot plant at Christmas.

“A potted plant – something easy to care for like a cactus or succulent in a terracotta or simple white pot,” she says of her choice, believing it’s “always a great styling accessory for any home”.

“Make sure it’s a real plant and not a fake!” she says.

Aesop Resurrection Aromatique hand wash ($40)

“A quality hand wash, such as Aesop’s hand wash,” Lee says, “instantly adds a touch of luxury to any bathroom and has widespread appeal.”