Looking to jazz up your home? Instead of painting your walls or buying new furniture, stock your shelves with quirky gadgets and ornaments. Be it kitchen tools that double up as art or an adorable animal-shaped organiser for storing jewellery, these unusual knick-knacks will certainly add a pop of personality to your home or make statement gifts for the special people in your life.
As functional as they are novel, here are some one-of-a-kind items that you're sure to love – including yourself.
A playful gadget for the home, Alessi’s Nutcracker was designed by acclaimed architect and designer, Andrea Branzi, as a charming conversation starter. When you first look at it, you’ll see a form of a squirrel. But that’s not all it is – it’s a sturdy nutcracker that is crafted with mirror-polished stainless steel and a sturdy wood base.
The Dachsie Ring Holder from Umbra is a paw-sitively delightful gift idea for dog owners and animal lovers. Inspired by the adorable shape of a dachshund, this handy ring holder will safely protect your rings from any scratches with its velvet padded base. Its sleek design and polished metal finish will complement your home décor, whether you place it on your desk, nightstand or dresser.
A collaboration between renowned designer Philippe Starck and Italian homeware company, Alessi, the Juicy Salif Lemon Squeezer is truly an iconic objet d’art to add to your kitchen countertop. Thanks to its futuristic, alien-like appearance, this citrus squeezer also makes the perfect housewarming gift for those with an appreciation for innovative design.
Whether you love listening to jazz, blues or classic rock, NeXtime’s Vinyl Tap clock hits all the right notes. This retro glass wall clock is made for those who love vintage items – its eye-catching and authentic design even features pickup needle hands and an LP clock dial.
These miniature ang ku kuehs look so realistic, you might be tempted to snack on them. But they are actually magnets specially designed and handmade by Tinkle Arts’ special needs trainees. Every purchase goes towards supporting this social enterprise and creating sustainable employment for its special needs employees. Choose from other local kueh ‘flavours’ such as ondeh ondeh, lapis sagu or kueh dadar for a quirky yet delectable gift.
Special occasions such as weddings and housewarmings call for auspicious gifts – ones that symbolise good luck and good fortune. Be it for newlyweds and new homeowners, RISIS offers a selection of luxury handcrafted pieces that usher in a new chapter on a lucky note. Take for example these rooster and hen chopstick rests: Encapsulated in 24k Swiss gold, this gilded pair will make a handsome addition to any dining table.
What makes a great water bottle that kids will love? One that doesn’t leak, is easy to use, and is shaped like an adorable animal. The Thermo Mug animal mug fits the bill perfectly. Made in Japan, this bear-shaped stainless drink container can keep water cold for up to two hours. It also comes with a strap and a straw so kids can sip freely without the worry of spilling.
Your little one will love snuggling up to Mellipou’s It-Bam pillow. And it's not just a fluffy, cloud-shaped cushion; it also connects wirelessly to your smartphone, tablet or computer via Bluetooth to play up to three hours of music. Play lullabies from your favourite Spotify playlist or even record bedtime stories in your own voice – the pillow's top-of-the-range diffusion quality will soothe babies and lull them into nights of restful sleep.
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