With time and creativity running out, my one fail safe gift for even the most modest of design enthusiasts is a gorgeous design book. I, for one, am actually quite excited to unplug over the holidays and I’ll most certainly be flipping back through my design books for some fresh ideas for the new year.

Scroll to find eight of my favorite titles below – all still available to arrive in time for Christmas. Thank you Prime.

8 Design Books You Can Get in Time for Christmas 8 Design Books You Can Get in Time for Christmas8 Design Books You Can Get in Time for Christmas 8 Design Books You Can Get in Time for Christmas

1.  Interior Portraits. Tour the eclectic homes of pioneers in art and design.

2. Perfect Imperfect. A perfectly (ha!) minimalist tome to the art of wabi sabi.

3. This is Home. Tours of homes from around the world that feel lived in. Beautifully.

4. Monochrome Home. Basically my color palette bible.

5. Modern Originals. Consider this book a must-have primer on all things mid-century modern.

6. The Alchemy of Things. Anything coming out of Australia inspires me these days but famed editor Karen McCartney has amazing eye for homes with true originality and character. This is going to make you want to buy all the vintage things.

7. Design by Nature. Peak inside Bay Area design guru Erica Tanov’s creative process and how she finds design inspiration in nature.

8. Joseph Dirand. The french architect is becoming stuff of legend. With his truly stunning work, its easy to see why.

Check all of our gift guides here for more items that offer rush shipping!

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With just seven days until Christmas now and many retailers shipping deadlines happening today, I wanted to share some of the last minute gifts I’ve currently got in my cart. Good luck out there!

cozy holiday moments on apartment 34last minute gifts for everybody on apartment 34

1. For the New Parent
No one ever talks about the need for true darkness when your head hits the pillow, but after recently introducing an eye mask into my sleep ritual, I can only say, GAME CHANGER. This is the perfect gift for those squeezing in extra zzz’s wherever they may be, I’m looking at you, new parents. Parachute Merino Eye Mask.

2. For the Wellness Expert
Tis the season for dry skin. TrueBotanicals, a completely organic and nontoxic skincare line, makes the body oil that smells as divine as it feels. Don’t forget to gift a bottle to yourself – your skin will definitely thank you! Pure Radiance Body Oil.

3. For the Health Conscious
Did you know that most people are chronically dehydrated? It can be really tough to fit in those 8 glasses of water we need each day but a gorgeous smoked glass night carafe adds style and a friendly reminder to drink up. Night Carafe.

4. For the Bookworm
As a busy mom, I’m usually way behind on the latest and greatest Netflix binges but after recently devouring The Crown, I’m squeezing in more me-time over the holiday. This go-around it’s with the biography of the Queen’s younger, rebellious sister. I can’t wait to gift to all my fellow readers. Ninety-Nine Glimpses of Princess Margaret.

5. For the Sleep Deprived
I’ve always loved good hotel pillows – the extra fluffy kind that you sink into blissfully. This year I’m gifting that perfect sleep to those I love so they can enjoy that vacay feeling at home. We’re all sleeping better in 2019. Parachute Down Pillows.

6. For the Art Lover
A soothing setting is essential for a good night’s rest. A piece of minimalist, modern art in a mellow color palette helps set the right tone. Plus, this person will always think of you when they admire the piece. Last Tuesday.

7. For the Beauty Maven
A good night’s sleep is especially important for skin health. Vintner’s Daughter face oil, made of 22 active organic botanicals, essentials oils, phytonutrients and antioxidants practically guarantee you wake up glowing. They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothin’! Vintner’s Daughter.

8. For the Night Owl
For those who burn the candle at both ends, a good cup of coffee – or three – every morning is essential. Help ease those first sips with a beautiful one-of-a-kind, handmade and carved stoneware mug by Mt. Washington. Carved Diamond Mug.

9. For the Home Body
Making a bed is an art form. For your friend who prioritizes comfort but could use some guidance when it comes to home decor, introduce them to a coverlet – the additional layer is guaranteed to up their bedding game. Fair warning: this person may never want to get out of bed again. Parachute Matelasse Coverlet.

10. For the Worrier
As I attempt to fall asleep, I’m constantly running to-do lists through my head. Rather than let them keep me awake, I’ve found jotting down those end-of-the-day thoughts helps quiet the mind – and ensures I don’t forget anything! Grow Where You Are Planted Journal.

Self-care is all the rage these days. From meditation apps, to palo santo bundles popping up at Urban Outfitters, the tools used by the truly devout have made their way into the mainstream. But that’s certainly not a bad thing. We could all benefit from a little extra mindfulness. I’ve rounded up the must-have tools to help everyone on your list get their wellness on.

1. Crystal Clear. For thousands of years, ancient civilizations believed that the powers of crystals could release mental, physical and spiritual blockages and that each crystal has unique properties and energies. This set is intended to help boost happiness. They’re the perfect size to hold in your hand while you do your daily affirmations.

2. Om. This meditation bundle is like your mindfulness starter kit. It includes five incense sticks and vegan soap to help you clear your thoughts and cleanse your soul.

3. Keep Rollin. Anything that helps you destress is a good idea in my book. This roll-on aromatherapy by the nontoxic skincare brand True Botanicals offers instant stress relief in the form of pure essential oils chosen for their ability to lessen anxiety and induce calm.

4. Pick a Card.Tarrot cards help offer a little insight in to the universe’s intentions. This particular tarrot deck also offers engaging illustration by San Francisco based artist Casey Zabala to help you on your path to self-discovery.

5. Chill. Facial rolling is like a thing now. It helps tone and relax facial muscles, diminish wrinkles and drain lymph, but you don’t have to break the bank for a fancy-schmancy roller. This pair is under $20!

6. Thirst Quenching. Crystal-infused water is said to help shift energies. This water bottle comes with a rose quartz crystal embedded at its bottom to attract love. Every little bit helps!

7. Star Power. This tome will help the astrological novice get a deeper understanding of their sign and everything from moon phases to planetary shifts.

8. Burn Out. A proper moment for deep thought isn’t complete without a good place to let your incense smoke. This natural brass incense burner is beautiful even if you don’t manage to get your 10 minutes of meditation in that day.

With just 8 days left until Christmas, make sure to check out our entire Gift Guide archive here. I’m off to shop myself!

Tis the season for a daily tipple! With 10 shopping days left, there’s enough time to try every one of my favorite holiday cocktails and pick up a chic tool for your favorite mixologist.

cozy holiday moments on apartment 34

1.  Form + Function. A simple tool doesn’t have to ugly. I love the architectural lines of this chic studio Hay bottle opener.

2. Shape Shifters. For the whiskey lovers who refuse to skimp on style, these are the only whiskey rocks you should buy.

3. Deco Decanter. This decanter will look gorge down to the last drop.

4. X Marks the Spot. So so long to all flat coasters.

5. Go Big or Go Home. The jumbo ice cube is a cocktail lover’s best friend. Now you can make them at home.

6. A Sweet Treat. If you’re going to make the perfect Negroni, you must have have this sweet vermouth at your disposal.

7. Grasp at Straws. It’s officially time to kick plastic to the curb. These golden hued stainless steel straws are a must have.

8. Where My Curves At. It’s time to toast with champagne flutes that have a little more flare. This deco-inspired pair is simply gorgeous.

For our entire gift guide archive, CLICK HERE.

I used to pride myself on being able to put together a good outfit. But the throes of early motherhood and the fact that no two days in my world ever look the same have damped my old fashionista ways. But that doesn’t mean I don’t love a good look. It just needs to be accomplished extremely quickly and with little to no thought. The best way to do that? A major statement making piece. Just one piece of flair can turn your basics into a head turning look.

The gift guide below is intended for those statement-loving ladies in your life. But it also might secretly be my personal wishlist. I guess secret’s out now!

1. A Major Earring Moment. Jewelry is one of the easiest ways to sass up any look. I’d love to pair these Ariel Gordon double hoops (they’re hollow so they’re not heavy!) with my new favorite black turtleneck,  jeans and a cute kitten heel.

2. Fuzzy Feet. The furry shoe, people. It’s a thing. It took awhile to grow on me, but now I’m really into them.

3. Hat Head. Throw on a good hat and you look like you tried. When in fact it’s exactly the opposite! Any hat by Janessa Leone is sure to do the trick.

4. A Shapely Tote.While the It Bag craze has died down, a unique bag is always a good look.

5. Cook Kicks. If the effort to wear heels is going to made, they might as well be really dang good looking. These playful geometric suede pumps are perfect foil to a timeless holiday dress.

6. Top it Off. When in doubt, a coat will make any outfit look polished. This belted houndstooth option is a classic in itself.

7. Totes Adorbs. Because a girl can never have too many bags this little tote is a perfect way to switch things up.

8. Sweet Sweater. I love the feminine shoulder detail on this darling chocolate brown cardigan.

 

SHOP ALL GIFT GUIDES HERE

image via the effortless chic

Alright friends, how’s that Christmas shopping going?? Assuming many of you are as behind as I am, I thought I’d dive into the gift guides in earnest this week. So you’ll being getting a daily dose of shopping ideas each morning, along with the day’s regular post each afternoon as well. Don’t worry, these guides are helping me too. They’re forcing me to track down unique pieces for everyone on my list! Oh and I’d love to know what gift guides you would find most helpful. For the kiddos? The guys? In-laws?? I definitely want to offer whatever helps the most.

I’m kicking things off with one of my personal favorites – guides for the design-loving cook. I’m certainly a sucker for any pretty kitchen gadget, so you might consider this a personal wishlist as much as it is a gift guide! Continue to scroll for eight deliciously gorgeous options.

Gift Guide for the Design-Loving Cook on apartment 34Gift Guide for the Design-Loving CookWhile it took me a really long time post kiddo to get back into cooking, I’m finally diving into new recipes, cooking family dinners, dreaming up recipes and loving every minute of it.I might even try my hand at baking this holiday season. But I am very particular about what comes into my kitchen. And these days you do not have to sacrifice form for function. Any one of the kitchen accuerumounts listed below would certainly help motivate me to keep on cooking. Or at least hang out in the kitchen and stare at my pretty tools while I await Thai takeout. No judgements.

1. The Perfect Whisk. While the handle on this whisk looks like faceted stone, it’s in fact made of easy to grip silicone!

2. Your Secret Weapon Spice. Za’atar is the perfect finishing touch for soups, salads, even sprinkled on yogurt or in your olive oil. Your guests will think you’re a genius.

3. A High Design Cast Iron.Everyone needs a good cast iron pan but who says it has to be big and bulky. This thin, sleek modern version does the job, beautifully.

4. When Spoon Meets Spatula. Multi-use tools are a must and this Spoonula can scoop. It can scrape. It can withstand 500 degree heat and cleans like a dream. Kick all those old sad spatulas good-bye.

5. An Above Average Bowl. A handmade stoneware bowl adds a touch of art to the kitchen.

6. Really Nice Rice. This traditional hagama rice cooker will ensure you get a perfect batch of rice each time. Or look perfect on your counter. Both are equally good reasons to need one.

7. Compost Trés Chic. Just because you compost can get kinda disgusting, that doesn’t mean it’s container should be. Finally a compost bin I wouldn’t mind sitting out on the counter.

8. The Fundamentals. Every home cook needs the proper set of tools. This set of seven offers the pieces you’ll reach for on the daily. But most importantly, each tool in this set is as good looking as it is useful.

 

image by nicole franzen for eyeswoon

Now that December is officially upon us, I’ve broken the seal on holiday decorating. Or should I say un-decorating. While I’ll never forsake a Christmas tree, there’s something I love about a truly minimal nod to the holiday season.

Your Secret to Minimal Holiday Decorating on apartment 34Your Secret to Minimal Holiday Decorating on apartment 34Your Secret to Minimal Holiday Decorating on apartment 34Your Secret to Minimal Holiday Decorating on apartment 34

I’ve gone maximalist with my holiday decorating in the past with garlands, wreaths and flourishes a-plenty, but this year I’m going for an elegant, subtle, yet still festive, demarcation of the season. I think #thisoldvictorian calls for a significant level of restraint.

The secret is an extremely light hand. A cutting of pine here. A smattering of ornamentation there. Nothing to bright or ostentatious. This year I’m actually shirking all sparkle (save the tree) in favor of matte objects that hint at the holiday – rather than scream festive at the top of their lungs. Obviously a soothing neutral color palette is also a must. And candles. Candles everywhere.

I’m still debating the placement of a modern wreath and will maybe even consider adding one garland (in a dramatic, unexpected location – stay tuned), albeit a minimal one.

I have added many a gorgeous “holiday decorating” piece to my cart this weekend, so I thought I’d share my favorites with you. You’ll note there’s no color and hardly any sparkle in sight. But I’m loving it.

How about you?

images via apartment 34 / hege in france / apartment 34 / here

While I saw many a Christmas tree going up on Instagram this weekend, I am the first to admit that I’m not feeling entirely ready for the holiday season’s arrival. Anyone else with me??

our best cyber monday picks on apartment 34

So while I plan to slow play my decorating this week – my current design inspiration is above – I can’t deny that there are some pretty good deals happening around the web today.

So whether you’re shopping for someone on your gift list, or simply in the mood to take care of yourself (no judgments!), I thought I’d at least share the Cyber Monday deals from my favorite small brands and unique shops that I’m jumping on…while I also plot a modern minimalist way to decorate a staircase

I’d love any suggestions you might have!

 

 

 

For all the rest of our favorite sales happening right now – most of which end tonight – CLICK HERE.

 

images via pinterest

Where are my awesome nerds at? Today I have a gift guide all about technology. While the last decade of my career has relied almost solely on computers, wifi and the interwebs, I’m one of those people with a bit of a love/hate relationship with all things tech. Or more accurately, it always seems like tech things hate me. They never work right. They take hours to set up. Or they simply stop working for no apparent reason. Do you member the days of resetting things with a Bic pen?? And while our reliance on tech continues to grow exponentially, it seems like tech gear isn’t always keeping pace. That’s why I was so intrigued to learn about Orbi Whole Home Wifi system new from NETGEAR. For once there’s a piece of technology that drastically improves your life, doesn’t make you want to tear your hair out and bonus: it looks good too!

gift guide for sexy tech gifts on apartment 34gift guide for sexy tech gifts on apartment 34

Wi-Fi is the next utility (or at least it certainly should be treated as such, but don’t get me started). As connectivity has become ubiquitous in our everyday lives, hardware manufacturers need to build products that meet both the performance and design needs of the modern home. Amazingly now you get both. The Orbit RBK50 covers up a home up to 5,000 sq. ft. That means instead of having the dreaded wifi dead spots around your house you get top wifi speeds all the time, everywhere. Once we installed the Orbi in our house I could actually go between floors without my download speeds going glacial. Download speeds are finally super fast. And I don’t get the spinning ball of death while I wait for a video stream to buffer.

gift guide for sexy tech gifts on apartment 34

It also turns out you can get sleek and simple design without sacrificing performance.You don’t have to try to hide the Orbi system in the back of a closet, under a desk or behind a bed. The vertical design makes it easy to tuck into any corner of your house and its sleek white exterior just blends right in.

gift guide for sexy tech gifts on apartment 34

While it may not seem like the most obvious of gifts, imagine visiting your in-laws and being able to easily stream Netflix from the guest room. Or visiting your grandma’s house and even having wifi. There is simply no reason to ever face that seemingly endless downloading bar ever again. To find out how you can purchase an Orbi system, CLICK HERE. I’ve also rounded up a few amazing pieces of tech that I think will improve your lives. Or least offer some convenience and fun in really pretty packages.gift guide for sexy tech gifts on apartment 34

1 > NETGEAR Orbi Wifi System

2 > Wireless Speaker

3 > Charging Cable & Watch dock

4 > Wireless Turnable

5 > Marble laptop Cover

6 > Photo printer

7 > Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser

8 > Noise canceling headphones

 

This post is a paid partnership with NETGEARAll opinions are my own and were not directed by NETGEAR. To learn more about Orbi, visit NETGEAR’s website. Thanks for supporting collaborations that have kept apartment 34’s doors open.

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