We’ve all had socks given to us as a present for Christmas haven’t we? The dodgy pens come to mind, the coffee mugs, the generic scarves, even vintage pyjamas that look like they’ve come straight out of the 70’s?
And that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s the thought that counts isn’t it…but as the festive season approaches (some would say it’s already here), the question of gifts becomes topical yet again, and it becomes time to plan out your Christmas gift ideas. What top presents should I get my closest friends and family for Christmas? The children will probably have already delivered their Christmas lists and gift ideas by now, but what about the wife or husband? What will my family get me – something I will like (or which I at least actually need)?
A few years ago, my wish list would have included a waterproof wireless Bluetooth speaker, maybe a colourful tie, some cufflinks and a new shirt. These days that wish list has become rather green. And it’s not as a consequence of all the climate change talk entering the public discourse; nor because I’m big on environmentally-friendly stuff. Instead some of the modern eco-friendly mod-cons (if we can call them that) have become rather cool. More so than they were 10 or 15 years ago.
Take for example this sublime table –lamp combo by French architect and designer Jean Marie Massaud.
It is made from polyethylene so the body is recyclable. Look at those curves… they say it can sit at different angles (to maximise the exposure surface for collection of solar radiation); the outdoor model even allows rainwater to run off. Which means you don’t have to place it under cover to protect it from the rain… it’s so beautiful. Right near the top of the wish list.
You then have things like this Solidwool chair from Solidwool Factory.
Quite the exotic. And while I wouldn’t expect anyone other than my better half (don’t worry she’s not reading this), and possibly a few close friends, to collectively part with 400 quid for a present, it’s definitely something I wouldn’t mind receiving.
But if that’s too steep for you, what about these Hempcrete glasses,
Or this bamboo bicycle? Or indeed these eco-kettles including one which keeps your water hot for up to 4 hours after you’ve boiled it! 4 hours! Now there’s a Christmas gift worth every penny.
I think the appeal of these items is not merely because they are environmentally friendly, or indeed different. I mean, aren’t they just so cool?
I know for some people switching from what they have always liked to something a bit adventurous, a bit more eccentric, isn’t easy. There’s the little problem of taste, which can influence buying decisions (For me, selecting the right pair of shoes is quite the challenge). But surely, even if you wouldn’t buy any of these items yourself; you have to at least give it to the designers that most of these items are quite desirable.
And if you asked me what I would have, if I could choose a reasonable(ish) Christmas present without worrying too much about the price, I’ll have to go for this. Nothing else comes even close.
