Unwrap elegance: Presents to delight and impress
The holiday season is a magical time—a moment to connect with loved ones, reflect on memories, and share meaningful gifts that capture the spirit of giving. At LIV Design Studio, we believe the perfect gift tells a story, celebrates tradition, and adds beauty to everyday moments.
This year’s Holiday Gift Guide takes a journey through time and style, offering hand-picked treasures that celebrate Canadian charm in three unique categories: Past inspired gifts from the vibrant streets of Vancouver and Toronto, Present finds from these beloved Canadian cities, and Future treasures you can explore online. Whether you’re searching for timeless keepsakes, modern luxury, or tech-savvy finds, we’ve curated a selection of meaningful gifts that will light up every moment of the season.
Join us as we explore these thoughtfully curated options—perfect for anyone on your list—and discover the stories they tell and the memories they’ll create. Let's make this holiday unforgettable, one beautifully chosen gift at a time.
Gifts inspired by the past
Celebrate the creativity and community spirit of Vancouver with gifts inspired by local businesses that embody the city’s unique charm.
1. Old Faithful Shop: Rice Cooker
Inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship, the Kamado San Rice Cooker creates perfectly fluffy, flavorful rice with ease. Its timeless design also doubles as a versatile cooking pot, perfect for soups, stews, and hot pots. A thoughtful addition to any kitchen this holiday season.
2. Out & About: Sake Set
Handmade in Japan, this elegant sake set captures the beauty of blowing snow with its frosted glass design. The set includes one sake carafe and two matching cups, each with their own unique shape. Available in two styles, this timeless piece brings warmth and tradition to any gathering.
3. Neighbour: Candle Biscuit Tin
A charming set of six stacked cookie candles with a sweet, buttery scent. Beautifully styled and perfect for gifting, this biscuit-inspired tin is as lovely to look at as it is to hold your small treasures.
Something special for everyone
Gifts inspired by the past
Celebrate Toronto’s vibrant spirit with gifts inspired by the city’s thriving local businesses. This collection highlights the best of Toronto’s creativity and innovation, offering special gifts for those who appreciate unique craftsmanship and community.
1. Mjolk: Ojiro Picnic Basket
Handcrafted in Oita, Japan, by Ojiro Kakumono Ten, these rectangular bamboo baskets embody tradition and craftsmanship. Using the rare technique of fire bending, each piece is carefully shaped by hand, a skill passed down from master craftsmen. With timeless design and artisanal charm, these baskets are as functional as they are beautiful.
2. Pictus Goods: Ikebana Dried Flower Bowl
Hand-turned in stunning light maple, these dried flower bowls are perfect for creating beautiful floral displays. Featuring a variety of hole sizes to hold a range of stems, each bowl is handmade by Elise in British Columbia.
3. Mjolk: Basil Soap
Infused with a refreshing blend of lavender, patchouli, and lemon essential oils, plus freshly ground basil powder, this basil soap offers a clean, invigorating scent. A perfect addition to your self-care routine.
Gifts inspired by the present
Celebrate the here and now with gifts that capture the vibrant spirit of the present moment. Inspired by the flavors, experiences, and memories created at some of our favourite local restaurants in Vancouver, this collection brings the essence of delicious dining into thoughtful gifting. Perfect for foodies, hosts, or anyone who loves a taste of community and connection.
1. Petrichor Social
Inspired by the elegance of France and the West Coast, Petrichor Social offers a taste of French savoir-faire. Savor elevated cuisine, expertly crafted cocktails, and local beers and wines in a space reminiscent of the sun-dappled private beaches of the South of France.
2. AMA Raw Bar
AMA Raw Bar embodies the essence of modern coastal cuisine with its fresh, innovative interpretations of classic seafood and pasta dishes. Perfect for an elegant evening or a light, flavorful bite, it offers a celebration of simplicity, quality, and timeless taste.
3. Meo
Meo offers a unique blend of contemporary flair and culinary tradition with its innovative menu. Featuring dishes inspired by global influences and local ingredients, this Chinatown gem is perfect for adventurous palates seeking bold flavors, creative cocktails, and exceptional dining experiences.
Gifts inspired by the present
Celebrate the present with gifts inspired by Toronto’s vibrant dining scene, where flavors, ambiance, and community come together to create unforgettable experiences. Drawing from some of our favorite local restaurants, this collection captures the essence of shared meals and treasured moments—perfect for anyone who values connection and culinary delight.
1. And/Ore
Explore the enchanting world of and/ore, where culinary creativity and imaginative design come together. Led by Chef Missy Hui, the two distinctive dining spaces showcase the endless possibilities and diverse influences of modern Canadian cuisine.
2. Takja
A hidden gem on Toronto’s vibrant dining scene, Takja celebrates Korean comfort food with a modern twist. Known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and flavorful dishes like traditional stews and innovative small plates, Takja is the perfect spot for both casual gatherings and intimate dinners.
3. Bar Banane
Located on the second floor of La Banane on Ossington Avenue, Bar Banane offers an elegant yet intimate setting ideal for cocktail enthusiasts and fine food lovers. Featuring an inventive cocktail menu, with highlights like tequila-based creations and sophisticated small plates, Bar Banane promises an unforgettable evening of taste and style.
Gifts inspired by the future
This next collection explores the intersection of TECHNOLOGY, DESIGN, and CULTURE something we hold dear here at LIV Design Studio.
1. Simons: Transparent Speaker
Swedish brand Transparent combines studio-quality sound with minimalist Scandinavian design in this sleek, modular speaker. Crafted from aluminum and tempered glass, its timeless simplicity pairs with advanced DSP technology for true, layered audio—reproducing music as the artist intended.
2. Philips Hue: Iris copper edition
Elevate your interiors with the Philips Hue Iris special edition lamp —available in a curated selection of finishes including silver, gold, copper, and rosé. Its elegant design, featuring thoughtful details like a fabric-wrapped cord, metallic accents, and a transparent bowl, casting a gentle, atmospheric glow
3. Windmill: Air Purifier
With its sleek, modern design and effortless functionality, the Windmill Air Purifier transforms any space into a sanctuary of clean air. Combining intuitive technology with understated elegance, it ensures your home remains a place of comfort and calm.
4. nocs: Monolith x Aluminum Speaker
The Monolith Aluminum combines Nocs’ signature sound with eco-conscious design. Crafted from a single block of sandblasted, anodized aluminum, it reflects both innovation and sustainability. Available in Silver or Matte black.
5. LG: CineBeam Projector
This LG projector is a masterclass in refined design and immersive visuals. Offering seamless streaming and impeccable image quality, it blends luxury with cutting-edge performance, transforming any space into a private cinematic retreat.
Season's Greetings from LIV Design Studio
We hope this guide serves as your inspiration for finding gifts that are equal parts beauty and function. Every selection has been meticulously chosen to elevate daily moments and bring a sense of timeless style to your loved ones' lives.
Here’s to a season filled with meaningful connections and the joy of giving. May the warmth of shared moments and the spirit of thoughtful design make this festive season truly unforgettable. From all of us at LIV Design Studio, we wish you a very happy holiday and a bright new year ahead!
