Five Holiday Gift Ideas for Design Lovers for Under $50

The holiday season is here, and finding the perfect gift for the design enthusiasts in your life can feel like a challenge—especially when you're sticking to a budget. If you’re searching for thoughtful yet affordable gifts for the design-obsessed, we’ve got you covered! At Elliano Design, we know that thoughtful design can make even the smallest details feel special. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned interior designer, a home decor aficionado, or someone who simply appreciates a well-organized space, these five gift ideas under $50 are sure to impress.

Let’s get started with budget-friendly picks that marry style and function—perfect for the modern design lover.

Spice Rack Drawer Organizer

Price: Around $35
Where to Buy: Amazon, Wayfair or other online retailers

When it comes to design, even the kitchen deserves an upgrade. A Spice Rack Drawer Organizer combines practicality with sleek aesthetics, making it a must-have for anyone who loves cooking and good design. Often made from natural bamboo, these organizers hold plenty of spice jars for your favorite chef, keeping them neatly arranged and easy to find.

Why It’s Great for Design Lovers:

  • Sustainably Chic: Bamboo is a sustainable material that adds warmth and natural texture to any kitchen space.

  • Decluttering with Style: Design enthusiasts know that organization is key to a beautiful home. These spice racks fit seamlessly into a drawer for a clean, uncluttered look.

  • Customizable Appeal: Pair this gift with a set of matching spice jars or labels for a personalized touch.

Pro Tip: If you’re gifting this to a foodie, add in their favorite spice blend or a small pack of gourmet sea salts. Thoughtful touches elevate the gift and show you care about their tastes.

Closet Drawer Dividers

Price: $10-$35
Where to Buy: IKEA, The Container Store or local shops

Closet Drawer Organizers are a simple yet stylish organizational gift that brings order to drawers, shelves, or countertops. Whether a set of sleek gray boxes or an expanding drawer system, these are perfect for corralling smaller items while enhancing the aesthetics of any space.

Why It’s Great for Design Lovers:

  • Minimalist Design: Clean and simple lines provide a versatile addition to modern and Scandinavian interiors.

  • Practical Storage: Whether it’s in the bedroom, bathroom, or office, these boxes are excellent for organizing cutlery, stationery, toiletries, or small accessories.

  • Affordable Elegance: At under $35, these organizers pack a lot of style without breaking the bank.

Pro Tip: Pair these boxes with some colorful washi tape or custom labels for an added design flair. It’s functional and fun for the recipient to personalize their organizational system.

Ceramic Vase Set for Decorative Arrangements

Price: Around $30
Where to Buy: Local decor stores or online marketplaces like Etsy, Wayfair or Amazon

A ceramic vase set is the perfect blend of artistry and practicality for any design lover. These vases often come in minimalist or sculptural forms, adding a sophisticated touch to bookshelves, tables, or windowsills.

Why It’s Great for Design Lovers:

  • Timeless Appeal: Ceramic vases work beautifully with fresh flowers, dried stems, or simply on their own as standalone decor.

  • Mix-and-Match Style: Look for neutral shades like white, beige, or soft pastels, which can complement a variety of interior styles.

  • Artful Accents: Even small, affordable vases can feel like works of art when paired thoughtfully with other decor pieces.

Pro Tip: Include a small bundle of dried pampas grass or eucalyptus stems for an instant arrangement. It’s the perfect way to gift something both stylish and ready to display.

Scented Candle in a Modern Holder

Price: $20-$45
Where to Buy: Brands like Paddywax, Magnolia, or local artisans

Few things transform a space more quickly than scent, and a beautifully designed candle does double duty as home decor. Look for candles that come in modern ceramic or glass holders, which the recipient can reuse long after the wax is gone.

Why It’s Great for Design Lovers:

  • Sensory Appeal: Design is about more than visuals—scents can evoke mood and emotion, making this a thoughtful sensory gift.

  • Versatile Style: From minimalist matte holders to bold, colorful designs, candles fit into any aesthetic.

  • Reusable Value: After the candle burns out, the holder can be repurposed as a small vase, planter, or storage container.

Pro Tip: Opt for seasonal scents like cedarwood, cinnamon, or vanilla to give the gift a festive holiday vibe. Pair it with a box of matches in a stylish holder for a complete set.

Coffee Table Book on Interior Design

Price: $35-$50
Where to Buy: Bookstores or online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble

A coffee table book isn’t just a gift—it’s a statement piece. For design lovers, a beautifully curated book on interior design, architecture, or styling is both inspiring and decorative.

Why It’s Great for Design Lovers:

  • Visual Inspiration: Coffee table books offer stunning imagery that fuels creativity and inspires new ideas for home styling.

  • Decorative Function: Books make beautiful layered accents for shelves, coffee tables, or sideboards.

  • Personalized Touch: Choose a book that matches their style—whether it’s modern, eclectic, farmhouse, or boho.

Pro Tip: Add a handwritten note on the first page of the book, sharing why you thought they’d love it. Small personal touches make the gift extra special.

Final Thoughts: Design-Friendly Gifts on a Budget

At Elliano Design, we believe that great design doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. These thoughtful, stylish, and practical gifts under $50 prove that you can wow the design lovers in your life without overspending. From kitchen organizers and decorative vases to beautifully scented candles and inspiring coffee table books, there’s something here for every design enthusiast.

The holidays are all about showing thoughtfulness, and a well-chosen design gift does just that. Whether your loved ones appreciate minimalist, modern, or cozy aesthetics, these ideas will spark joy and elevate their living spaces in subtle yet meaningful ways.

Happy gifting and happy holidays!

Looking for more interior design tips, styling ideas, or personalized consultations? Visit us at www.ellianodesign.com and explore how we can help transform your space with thoughtful, intentional design.

Enjoyed this gift guide? Share it with your friends and family, and let’s make this holiday season stylish and stress-free!