Welcoming someone into their first home is one of my favourite occasions to celebrate — it’s the beginning of new routines, fresh memories and a space that will slowly tell their story. When I curate gifts for new homeowners at Thukthaeshop, I look for pieces that feel personal, useful and just a little bit special: items that make a house feel cared-for from day one. Below I share my best picks, practical tips and ideas for different types of recipients so you can choose a present that’s both thoughtful and timeless.

What to prioritise when choosing a housewarming gift

When I choose a gift for someone’s new home I ask myself three simple questions:

  • Will it be useful? Functional items that are well-made get used daily and therefore remembered.
  • Is it tasteful and versatile? Neutral palettes or classic shapes ensure the piece suits a range of decor styles.
  • Does it have personality? A small handmade detail or an artisanal finish makes a present feel curated, not generic.

    • These criteria guide every selection I make for Thukthaeshop — whether I’m sourcing textured throws, hand-glazed ceramics or sculptural vases.

    Gift ideas by category

    Here are my favourite categories and specific ideas that regularly delight new homeowners.

    Textiles that bring instant warmth

    A thoughtfully chosen textile transforms a room quickly. I often recommend:

  • Woven wool or cashmere-blend throws — perfect for draping over sofas or layering at the foot of a bed. They add texture and comfort instantly.
  • Handloom linen cushion covers — linen looks effortlessly chic and softens new spaces without overwhelming them.
  • Small-area rugs or floor runners — ideal for entryways, kitchens or beside the bed to add warmth and define a space.

    • At Thukthaeshop, our limited-run throws and cushions are selected for their natural fibres and subtle colours so they complement many interiors.

    Stylish tableware and entertaining essentials

    New homeowners often love gifts that make hosting easier. My top picks include:

  • Hand-glazed dinnerware sets — a small set of plates or bowls in a neutral glaze feels elevated yet practical.
  • Serving boards and utensils — olive wood boards or brass-handled servers are both useful and decorative.
  • Quality glassware — a set of wine or tumblers that can be used daily or for guests.

    • For couples who enjoy entertaining, I sometimes pair a beautiful cheese knife with a compact marble board for a ready-to-gift set.

    Lighting that changes the mood

    Light is one of the quickest ways to make a new house feel like home. I love gifting:

  • Table lamps with textured bases — they create soft, layered lighting that's more inviting than overhead lights alone.
  • Hand-blown glass pendants — a small pendant over a reading nook or breakfast bar adds charm and character.
  • Decorative candles and candleholders — choose long-burning soy or beeswax candles plus a sculptural holder for a cozy vibe.

    • A lamp or a pair of bedside sconces can feel luxurious and immediately elevate a bedroom or living space.

    Decorative accents with story

    These are the pieces I reach for when I want a gift to feel curated and meaningful:

  • Art prints or small framed works — choose neutral abstracts or a landscape that will blend with many styles.
  • Handcrafted vases — a simple ceramic or glass vase is useful for flowers and looks considered even empty.
  • Objects from independent makers — think small sculptures, hand-carved spoons or woven baskets that reflect craftsmanship.

    • Many of our finds at Thukthaeshop are small-batch or handmade, so they carry a provenance that guests often notice and appreciate.

    Practical gifts people actually need

    Functional gifts can be just as thoughtful as decorative ones. Practical ideas I recommend:

  • Good-quality kitchen towels and oven mitts — choose natural fibres and attractive patterns.
  • Tool kit or maintenance kit — a compact toolkit or a set of wall hooks can be a lifesaver for new homeowners.
  • Houseplant in a decorative pot — a low-maintenance plant (like a snake plant or pothos) plus a ceramic planter adds life to a space.

    • I like pairing one practical item with a decorative one — for example, a set of cotton tea towels tied with a hand-tied ribbon plus a small vase.

    Gifts tailored to the recipient

    Not every home or homeowner is the same. Here are ideas depending on personality and lifestyle:

  • The Entertainer: A set of beautiful serving bowls, a cheese board and a bottle opener — all presented in a gift box.
  • The Minimalist: A sculptural vase, a neutral wool throw and a simple ceramic candle.
  • The Plant Lover: A stylish ceramic planter, a packet of easy-care plants and a watering can.
  • The New Family: Durable tableware, soft washable throws and blackout curtains for bedrooms.

    • When possible, I add a personalised note with styling tips — simple suggestions like “drape the throw over the left arm of the sofa” or “swap these cushions seasonally” help the recipient use the gift straight away.

    How to present your gift

    Presentation matters. I prefer minimal, sustainable packaging that still feels special:

  • Wrap items in kraft paper or linen and finish with cotton twine and a sprig of dried lavender or eucalyptus.
  • Use reusable boxes or fabric pouches — they become part of the gift and reduce waste.
  • Include a small card with a single styling tip or suggested placement in the home.

    • At Thukthaeshop we offer gift-wrapping options for many items, and I always recommend adding a personalised message — it makes the moment of unwrapping more memorable.

    Frequently asked questions I hear from customers

    Q: What’s the safest choice if I don’t know the recipient’s style?
    A: Choose neutral, multi-purpose pieces like a linen throw, white stoneware bowl or a tactile candleholder. These items fit many interiors and are likely to be used.

    Q: How much should I spend?
    A: There’s no fixed rule. Thoughtful gifts can range from an affordable hand-poured candle to a statement lamp. I focus on quality and longevity rather than price — a well-made smaller item often feels more special than a large, cheap purchase.

    Q: Can I send a gift directly from Thukthaeshop?
    A: Yes — we ship items with care and can include a gift note. For fragile or custom pieces I recommend adding the gift-wrap option and double-checking estimated delivery times.

    If you’d like tailored recommendations for a specific recipient, tell me a bit about their style and lifestyle — I love helping customers pick the perfect housewarming gift that feels both considered and useful.