Valentine’s Day Gifts For The Home
STORY LOUIS DUNCAN-HE
Let’s face it, trying to make Valentine’s day special this year is going to take a little extra attention, care and imagination. With so much attention in previous years being directed outwards, this year is about refocusing energy and creativity inwards; within the confines of your own home. Just because a sexy rendezvous at a restaurant is off the table doesn’t mean you can’t recreate and bring some of that magic home, creating your own alluring oasis. Whether it be cooking a romantic dinner, enjoying an intimate evening by the fire or soaking in a deep candle drawn tub, there are countless ways to turn up the temperature this Valentine’s day. Here are 6 of my favourite items to give and help create and set the perfect ambiance:
VANCOUVER CANDLE COMPANY
High Park 10 oz Boxed Candle $22.00 to $55.00 at Vancouver Candle Company
Scent is one of the most memorable of the five senses so why not set the scene with this Canadian owned candle company.With a variety of curated scents to choose from ranging from white tea, thyme and mandarin infused (my personal favourite and signature scent at my wedding) to sweet berry and white oak, you’re sure to find the perfect scent to set the stage for an unforgettable night.
BOWNESS SOAP WORKS
6 Bar Assorted Gift Set for $64.00 on Etsy
These all-natural soaps are the perfect product to use as you soak away with your partner in a deep candle-lit tub. Made with a unique blend of all-natural foraged ingredients and local lake water from the Rockies, this Calgary based company capitalizes on only the freshest and best ingredients that are in-season.
AROMA ZEN DIFFUSER
Morning to Night Kit $88.00 at Saje
Although scent plays a crucial role in helping to set the stage, texture, form and shape are also important aspects. This oil based diffuser not will not only keep your home fresh all day long but is also beautiful to look at. With its geometric and marble veined finishing, this is the perfect item that serves both form and function.
ANOVA PRECISION SOUS VIDE COOKER WITH WI-FI
$199.95 at Williams Sonoma
The best kept secret in mastering home cooking - the sous vide is an idiot proof appliance that makes it virtually impossible to over or undercook your food. Always dreamed of making the perfect rack of lamb for that special occasion? Consider adding this gadget to your kitchen tool repertoire - guaranteed to keep your dinner guest wanting more.
POMPIDOU ACRYLIC CANDLEHOLDER
$295 at Jonathan Adler
The wine is poured, dinner is ready and the table is set. If you’re wanting to splurge a little and create real impact, consider the pompidou acrylic candle holder from Jonathan Adler. With its whimsical shape and vibrant and fun colored nature, you’ll be sure to hit the perfect joyful note to start the night off in style. Valentine’s day never looked so bright.
EMBER SMART MUG
$179.95 at EMBER
If you’re looking for a the gift for the person who has it all – the temperature controlled Ember smart mug truly extends the moment of perfection and keeps beverages at their most perfect of temperatures…. all day and into the night! Use and pair with the Ember app on your phone to customize pre-sets for all their favourite hot beverages.
About Louis Duncan-He Designs
Louis Duncan-He, principal of Louis Duncan-He Designs an internationally published Canadian designer with a focus on designing distinctive and timeless residential spaces.
His signature West Coast perspective plays on the innate tension between elegant and relaxed, effortless refined and organic. With a unique client-centered approach, his interiors are authentic and soulful.
