Unless you’ve been sent a wish list or a specific request, buying a housewarming present can be a difficult feat. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite, most thoughtful housewarming gift ideas.
An important thing to remember is that you aren’t shopping for yourself. Always consider the style of the new homeowner and if they would prefer something more traditional.
If you do choose for something with a more traditional aesthetic, don’t be afraid to go vintage. Scour your local antiques shop and see if anything catches your eye. This way, you may be able to find something that suits their tastes perfectly.
Housewarming gifts for couples
Moving house is all about new beginnings, so why not choose housewarming gift ideas that help them to settle in. Something like a bulb planter is a great idea. That way they can track their plant’s progress by how long they’ve been living there.
Another nice gift to give is a candle or room diffuser. A fresh scent in a new home will make it feel more inviting and add a touch of personality to a space. Especially considering they may not have fully unpacked yet. If you know what candles they prefer, then err or on the safe side as scents are hugely personal. If you’re taking a wild guess, then we advise keeping it fresh and light. Deeper, muskier fragrances tend to be a bit like marmite.
Urban Apothecary creates sophisticated home fragrances inspired by memories, places and moments, translating them into beautifully balanced scents that enrich everyday living. From elegant candles to reed diffusers, each piece makes a thoughtful housewarming gift, helping couples create a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment they move in.
Alongside its considered approach to fragrance, the brand is committed to continually improving its manufacturing processes and sustainable practices to reduce its impact on the environment.
Discover Urban Apothecary home fragrances here.
For couples who embrace bold colour and playful design, Block Design offers homeware that's anything but ordinary. From sculptural vases and vibrant glassware to contemporary jugs and candle holders, each piece brings a fresh perspective to everyday living.
Designed to stand out while remaining beautifully functional, these colourful accents make thoughtful housewarming gifts that help transform a new house into a home full of personality.
Discover the Block Design collection here.
Practical housewarming gifts
Practical housewarming gifts are often the ones that are used and appreciated every day. Beautiful tableware is a thoughtful choice, giving couples the opportunity to build a collection they'll enjoy for years to come, whether it's for everyday meals or hosting friends and family.
Broste Copenhagen's Nordic Sea and Nordic Sand collections are ideal examples. Crafted from stoneware with distinctive reactive glazes, every piece has its own unique finish, bringing character and warmth to the table.
Inspired by the colours of the Nordic coastline, Nordic Sea features rich blue-grey tones, while Nordic Sand offers a softer, neutral palette. Designed to mix, match and layer, both collections make timeless housewarming gifts that are as practical as they are beautiful.
Discover Broste Copenhagen tableware here.
For something with a more exclusive feel, the Heal's x Surrey Ceramics collection celebrates British craftsmanship through timeless, everyday tableware. Handmade in Surrey using traditional techniques, each piece is finished with a distinctive glaze that gives every plate, bowl and mug its own unique character.
Designed to be mixed, matched and enjoyed daily, the collection is perfect for couples creating a home centred around shared meals and relaxed entertaining. Beautifully made and built to last, it's a thoughtful housewarming gift that will become part of everyday rituals for years to come.
Discover the exclusive collaboration here.
Traditional housewarming gifts
Traditional housewarming gifts were chosen to symbolise comfort and prosperity, with bread, wine and coal offered to wish a household lasting food, drink and warmth. Today, these thoughtful gestures can be reimagined with a more contemporary approach.
Instead of a bottle of wine, consider a beautifully crafted decanter or elegant set of glassware that can be enjoyed for years to come. Pair it with their favourite vintage for an extra-special gift, or take inspiration from tradition with a handcrafted bread board, artisan serving pieces or a sculptural candle and holder to bring warmth and atmosphere to their new home.
Whether they're celebrating their first dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening together, Georg Jensen's glassware makes a sophisticated housewarming gift. Founded in Copenhagen in 1904, the Danish design house has become renowned for combining exceptional craftsmanship with timeless, functional design.
From elegant champagne flutes to beautifully balanced wine and cocktail glasses, each piece reflects the brand's enduring Scandinavian aesthetic, bringing a sense of occasion to everyday moments and celebrations alike.
Discover the Georg Jensen collection here.
Housewarming gifts for first homes
If this is their first home, then it can be quite difficult to judge someone’s style. So, when choosing housewarming gifts for first homes, we advise selecting something that isn’t too out there. Keep it simple and buy them something they’ll need but may not be at the top of their priority list. Think a vase, wine glasses or some nice serving bowls.
Of course, if you know the new homeowner well, then it may be easier to predict their style. In this case, you could opt for something a little more exciting, like wall art or a throw.
Housewarming gifts ideas for design lovers
For couples with an eye for contemporary design, HAY offers everyday objects with a playful twist. Believing that good design should be accessible to everyone, the Danish brand collaborates with leading designers to create pieces that combine colour, functionality and timeless appeal.
The Flare Candle Holder brings sculptural form and a warm glow to a dining table or mantelpiece, while the Tint Glasses add a subtle pop of colour to everyday dining and entertaining. Thoughtful, practical and beautifully designed, they're gifts that will become part of daily life in a new home.
Discover the HAY collection here.
For those looking to give an iconic design piece, &Tradition's lighting collection offers a thoughtful balance of heritage and innovation. Working with renowned designers including Verner Panton, Arne Jacobsen and Jaime Hayon, the Danish design house creates enduring pieces that are made to be lived with and enjoyed.
The Flowerpot VP9 Portable Table Lamp, designed by Verner Panton, is one of the brand's most recognisable designs. Cordless and rechargeable, it moves effortlessly from dining table to bedside or garden, making it a versatile housewarming gift that combines timeless style with everyday practicality.
Discover &Tradition lighting here.
Like what you see? Shop all housewarming gifts at Heal’s.
Gifts Under £20
A budget of £20 shouldn't mean compromising on thoughtfulness, and our under-£20 edit proves it with small-batch candles, single ceramic mugs, quality stationery, wool socks and designer chocolates. Every piece arrives in Heal's-branded packaging with the option to add gift wrap at checkout. Each item is curated with the same eye as the rest of the range.
