Designer Nicole Hollis Shares Her Holiday Gift List
From hand-crafted treasures to mystical curiosities, the San Francisco tastemaker reveals the thoughtful finds she loves to give, each reflecting her passion for exceptional craftsmanship
For San Francisco interior designer Nicole Hollis, an object’s innate beauty lies in its material character, the hand of its maker, and the stories it carries. That philosophy underpins her acclaimed interiors as well as the NicoleHollis Collection, a robust assortment of artisan-crafted treasures that celebrates her enduring relationships with creative talents around the world. From hand-stitched leather pillows to gleaming brass candelabras, her discerning eye gravitates toward tactile pleasures and exceptional craftsmanship. Her holiday gift guide reveals a more intimate side of her sensibility, with selections that range from hand-thrown ceramics and fragrant perfume oil to meaningful keepsakes imbued with a seductive mystique.
1. Chester Throw Pillow by Ralph Lauren Home
“When I discovered Gee’s Bend quilts more than 20 years ago, I was inspired to hear of the stories of Black women from the Alabama community who have been quilting for generations. The patterns and fabrics of old work clothes are sometimes abstract, with geometry that’s a little off-kilter. Ralph Lauren has recently collaborated with Gee’s Bend quilters, offering pillows and blankets that make a beautiful gift and work in any interior.”
2. Adopt a Baby Elephant
“For the animal lover, I’d suggest adopting a baby elephant on their behalf from the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which operates the world’s most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program.”
3. Season of the Witch by Ellen Vora
“I recently read this book and loved how it invites us to make a case for magic and for women to reclaim their power. It reminds us not to second-guess our intuition and to listen to the inner voice we all have, but may have forgotten how to tap into.”
4. Muse Ring by JB Blunk Shop
“The Muse Ring from Blunk Shop and J. Hannah. It has a unique history: JB Blunk gave it to his partner Christine, which she wore as a wedding band. I love the simplistic form that a man or woman can wear.”
5. Saint-Louis Decanter by NicoleHollis Collection
“A modern interpretation of centuries-old craftsmanship, the Ellipse Decanter brings together the historic crystal-making expertise of Saint-Louis with the refined design sensibility of NicoleHollis. Its sculptural silhouette and distinctive triptych of hand-etched facets make it an exceptional gift, equally beautiful on display as it is in use.”
6. Blackpepper Light Sculpture 3KG by Amen Candles
“A beautiful avant-garde home centerpiece that is sculptural and has a subtle fragrance. I love it on a coffee table.”
7. Dawn Lighter Case by Sophie Buhai
“Always a beautiful object for the home, I love this lighter, as it’s a functional, everyday item turned into a breathtaking piece of functional jewelry. I use it to light my candles and incense—the ritual begins with this.”
8. Black Seed Pods by Valéria Nascimento
“I was introduced to Valeria by a friend and love her works in ceramics. She is such a talented ceramist and creates beautiful works based on the natural world.”
9. Turned vessels by Ash & Plumb
“Vessels made in the classical form out of English oak have a new-meets-old-world appeal.”
10. Pagan Otherworlds Tarot from Uusi
“I like to gift Tarot Cards. I especially like the Pagan Otherworlds by Uusi, as the illustrations and the paper itself are graphically stunning. Tarot has a long history as a handmade, symbolic practice of mapping the cosmos. The best decks are beautifully made objects. I like to meet with friends over drinks and pull cards with intention—it’s a fun way to connect.”
11. Smoking Rose Perfume Oil by Ayu
“Smoking Rose Perfume Oil by Ayu is a favorite of mine to gift. I particularly like the roll-on bottle for travel. Whenever I wear it, people ask me about the fragrance, as it has such a beautiful, soft scent that lingers.”