Shake Up Your Work Space with Bookblock

Having those extra little additions around you that you find inspiring, or even just make you smile, makes a real difference to desk life. We have sourced and developed a range of products that would make brilliant desk gifts and we are here to show them to you!

 

Succulents

Firstly, who doesn’t love a little, low maintenance plant to keep them company? Our Mini Haworthia with Grey Pot and Mini Miranda Succulent are the perfect desk plants. You have a choice of gorgeous dark green leaves and contrasting grey pot with the Haworthia, or smooth and warm green leaves with a black pot from the Miranda. Both can help to brighten any space.
As well as their looks, they also have health-boosting properties. Plants act as natural humidifiers and filter out air pollutants. This is perfect when at your desk all day so as a result, they make perfect office desk gifts or work from home gifts.

Mini Haworthia with Grey Pot and Mini Miranda Succulent with green leaf decorationMini Haworthia with Grey Pot and Mini Miranda Succulent

 

Dried Flowers

Secondly, and on a similar theme, we have our dried flower bouquet stem boxes. These are ideal desk gifts as they will last for years and just like the succulents, are extremely low maintenance. They work perfectly as congratulations gifts for a new job. Furthermore, they also provide the perfect chance to spend some time relaxing and arranging the stems, making them a great mindful gift.
An example is our Sedona Dried Flower Stem Box. It is a bright and sunny collection including natural Phalaris seed head and bunny tails. Colour is emphasised by golden yellow Helichrysum and orange Dahlias. Additionally, a striking member of the thistle family, the Carthamus, finishes the collection beautifully.
As the perfect finishing touch to our small stem boxes, our clay vases house these dried flower bouquets wonderfully. We have four to choose from; Blue Glazed, Turquoise Glazed, White Speckle and Golden Brown Glazed. All would make lovely additions to your work desk. 

Sedona Dried Flower Stem Box in White Speckle Glaze Clay Vase with orange and yellow floral decoration and a quote from a Bookblock floristSedona Dried Flower Stem Box and White Speckle Glaze Clay Vase

 

Framed Prints

Next up is our collection of framed prints. We have a range of twelve prints, and ranging from ornate and traditional to abstract and geometric, there’s something for everyone. Each print comes in a quality white wooden frame that can be hung on the wall or placed on a desk. If they are going to be working from home gifts, it may be nice to hang them on the wall and broaden your space!
Either way, they are perfect for livening up a work space with minimal effort and are lovely additions to a gift box for yourself or your loved ones.

For a couple of examples, we’re showing our Tanita Geo Framed Print and Cina Jasmine Framed Print. The Tanita is abstract, with a mixture of curvy and geometric shapes in earthy tones. All contrast brilliantly against the white background and frame.
The Cina Jasmine is very different, but equally as wonderful. The gorgeous florals and stems against the bold shapes in bright and fun colours creates a beautiful print. All compliment each other so well and just like the Tanita, contrasts so well with the white frame.

Tanita Geo Framed Print and Cina Jasmine Framed Print with abstract decoration in lots of coloursCina Jasmine Framed Print and Tanita Geo Framed Print

 

The Work Mug

Another classic desk gifts addition is a favourite work mug. They are always a nice, personal touch to that morning tea or coffee. We have a range of designs, with a couple shown below.
The first is part of our new, Mediterranean-inspired ceramics collection; Blue Hand Painted Summer Ceramic Mug. It features a gorgeous hand-painted motif the whole way around. Starting with a lovely floral design in the middle, it continues around with dotted textures. The colours are beautifully bright and fun, making it a wonderful desk gift to light up any dull work space.
The second is our White Ceramic Mug with Unglazed Bottom, representing the minimal designs of our mugs range. The specks of darker paint result in a lovely texture that contrasts with the white background and brown unglazed bottom. This design is lovely if you’re looking for simpler desk gifts, perhaps for an already busy desk or if you just love the minimalist look!

Blue Hand Painted Summer Ceramic Mug and White Ceramic Mug with Unglazed Bottom with floral decoration in oranges and blues
Blue Hand Painted Summer Ceramic Mug and White Ceramic Mug with Unglazed Bottom

 

Notebooks

Lastly, for something more practical, why not complete your new physical organisation skills with a notebook to organise your thoughts too? As well as our many personalised notebooks, we also have more beautiful collections, such as our Earthy range, for instance.
This collection is inspired by natural tones and elements with a nature lover in mind. We have three designs to choose from; Sun, Moon and Forest.
These notebooks are elegantly minimal, with delicate debossed foil designs and cloth covers. They are held together with a large brass ring spine, allowing for pages to be easily ripped out (great if you’re more particular about your notebooks!).
Additionally, all have a mix of ruled, plain and dotted pages inside, so as a result, this collection has all your notebook needs. They make lovely products for a gift box.

Sun, Moon and Forest Earthy Notebooks with sun, moon and leaf decoration above in goldSun, Moon and Forest Earthy Notebooks

 

 

Around the world in 21 coffees

But first, coffee

Whether you’re mad for a mocha or loopy for a long black, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a steaming cup of joe. And love for the strong stuff stretches way beyond these shores. People all over the world have their own unique ways of bringing the best out of the bean. So before you reach for your next cup, take a look at these incredible world coffees and see if any take your fancy.  Bottoms up!

 

Thailand  

We start our journey out east. And in Thailand, the drink of choice is kaaffee tung. But rather than paper, it’s filtered through a fine cloth for an extra smooth texture. While this fruity coffee has a lovely undertone of coconut, locals prefer to sweeten the mix with sugar and condensed milk.  

 

Hong Kong

Next up, it’s Hong Kong – the home of the Yuenyeung. This distinctive cross between tea and coffee is unlike anything else out there. It’s made from three parts coffee and seven parts milky tea so you get all the mellowness of a cuppa with a punchy caffeine hit. Lovely hot or cold. 

 

Japan 

Japan is home to kan kohi (that’s canned coffee to you and me). These joes on the go come in a huge variety of flavours, including hazelnut, caramel and vanilla so sweet tooths rejoice! Just don’t get caught sipping it on the subway, as drinking in public is against local etiquette.  

 

Vietnam

Next, to Hanoi and the brilliantly bonkers ca phe trung. Translated as ‘egg coffee’, this unique blend is made by combing egg yolk, condensed milk, sugar, butter and coffee. The result is a gloriously rich Tiramisu-like brew that’s perfect for an after-dinner treat. 

 

Indonesia

The fourth-largest producer of coffee in the world, Indonesia is home to the wonderfully inventive Kupi Khop. Served on a plate in an upside-down glass, this milky brew comes with a straw to slurp up all the goodness. For an Indonesian hit that’s a little less hands-on, try our Grumpy Mule Sumatra blend. 

 

Australia Coffee Culture

Australia

For years, Australia and New Zealand have been fighting it out to be declared the birthplace of the flat white. And while it may seem fairly new in the UK, Aussies have been using the term for decades to describe the silky blend of espresso and microfoam. Starbucks officially credited Oz with the hipster favourite but I’m keeping schtum on this one. 

 

Morocco

If you’re a coffee purist, Morocco is the place for you. In the markets of Marrakesh, they blend a deliciously dark brew spiced with sesame, pepper and nutmeg. The result is a beautifully fragrant coffee that’s strong enough to keep you running all day long.  

 

Turkey

Unlike many brews, Turkish coffee or Türk kahvesi comes unfiltered. Prepared in a copper pot called a cezve, tastes can vary from sweet and fruity to peppery and spicy. The leftover grounds can even be used for fortune-telling. What does the future hold? Another coffee probably. 

 

Saudi Arabia 

Brewed from 100% arabica coffee beans, Saudi Arabian qahwa is brewed using cardamon and saffron. This decadent coffee has some amazing health benefits and is known around the world as a powerful antioxidant. For a truly authentic cuppa, serve with dates in a handleless cup. 

 

Ethiopia 

Known to cofficianados across the globe, yirgacheffe is ranked among the world’s best coffees. Grown high above the sea and hand-picked by local experts, this distinctive bean has a fabulously fruity flavour. It tastes even better alongside sweet treats like Coco Chocolatier’s cold brew coffee chocolate. 

 

Senegal 

Moving west across Africa, we find Senegal’s famous cafe Touba. Like qahwa, it’s brewed from arabica beans but infused with cloves and black pepper. It’s genuinely spicy too. Whiskey drinkers will love its smokey heat. 

 

Greece

Heading up into Europe, we find one of my favourites. Strong and sweet, Greece’s famous frappe is a favourite of locals and tourists alike. You can make it at home too. Just blend cold instant coffee, milk, sugar and ice cubes for a fabulously refreshing treat. 

 

Spain

If you love all things sweet, Spain’s traditional cafe bombom is sure to delight. Born in Valencia, this decadent brew is made from equal parts espresso and condensed milk for a smooth, silky and seriously sweet coffee. Enjoy with papas fritas for a salty-sweet balance. 

 

Italy

For many, Italy is the home of great coffee. And they don’t come more classic than the espresso Romano. It’s a single shot of espresso served with a fresh peel of lemon to bring out the coffee’s natural aromas. Best served with zingy gelato or a simple biscotti. Delizioso! 

 

Germany

Berlin has one of the most experimental coffee scenes in Europe. But if you’re after something traditional, try a pharisäer. It’s a boozy beverage made with rum, whipped cream and super strong coffee. Definitely not for the faint-hearted.

 

Austria Coffee Culture

Austria

Austria has been a must-visit for caffeine cravers for centuries. And locals will tell you a kaisemelange is the best of the best. This brew is made by mixing egg yolk and honey before adding strong black coffee. A subtly sweet blend with a decadent finish.

 

Finland

You may have tried butter in your coffee but have you tried cheese? Well, north Finland is home to the kaffeost – a strong black coffee with chunks of Finnish cheese. Served at the bottom of the cup, the cheese provides a pudding-like texture. There really is nothing else like it.  

 

Ireland

Who doesn’t love a good Irish coffee? Made from Irish whiskey, cream and coffee it’s the perfect way to round off a meal. For the real deal, coffee pilgrims should visit Bailey Bar on Dublin’s famous Grafton Street.  

 

Mexico

Hopping over the pond, you’ll find Mexico’s spectacular café de olla. Traditionally, this spiced coffee is prepared in an earthen clay pot using water, cinnamon and a raw dark sugar called piloncillo. Rich and fruity, it’s great if you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas

 

Cuba

Coffee has become a cornerstone of Cuba’s vibrant culture. And no coffee is more iconic than a café Cubano. It’s made by mixing piping hot espresso with a cooling sweetened crema. Short and sweet, it’s the perfect coffee to enjoy at any time of day. 

 

Argentina 

Though Argentina doesn’t produce coffee of its own, its thriving coffee culture is among the best in the world. And a café lagrima is a real staple. It’s an espresso cup filled with milk with just a dash of coffee. Like a more mellow cortado, it’s perfect for part-time coffee drinkers. 

 

Coffee Culture

Columbia

Where better to finish our journey than Columbia? Its well-balanced beans are perfect for a classic café con leche. Made from equal parts strong coffee and scalded milk, it’s similar to a latte but with a less creamy finish. 

 

Got a coffee lover in your life? Check out our range of food and drink gifts including brewers, blends and books and keep them sipping all year long. 

Lexi x

Bookblock Guide to Classic Men’s Gifts Done Well 

Quality over quantity 

When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for him, quality goes a long way. That’s why our A5 Brown Leather folio. comes top of the list. Its robust design comes with Italian nappa leather which is soft yet durable, and only looks better over time. Accompany it with a personalised diary for dad and you’ve got the ideal present. 

Stripped back design 

When it comes to homeware, understated design is a sure-fire hit. Luckily, we’ve travelled the globe to find the best homeware brands. And tastemakers will love this concrete vase from Turkish designers GRØN. Sleek, strong and hardwearing, this eye-catching design brings some stipped back chic to bedrooms and living spaces. It looks great on its own or filled with dried eucalyptus. A subtly stylish birthday gift for him.  

 

Fuss-free grooming

Thanks to the latest wave of male grooming brands, there’s no excuse for boys not to look their best. But when it comes to gifting, keep it simple. First-time groomers will love this beard care serum from beauty experts Ferris & Harding. Enriched with 7 revitalising oils including Argan oil, Jojoba oil, Sweet almond oil and Vitamin E, it leaves beards irresistibly soft and tamed. A welcome addition to any gent’s bathroom routine. 

 

But first… coffee 

Coffee has quickly become a staple study for men. But they don’t need to know a Guatemalan cortado from a Venetian flat white to appreciate a great brew. This daily blend espresso from Caravan Coffee is a classic concoction that is perfect for everyday use. Filled with notes of almond and caramel, it will appease even the fiercest coffee critic. It makes the perfect addition to a foodie gift box. 

 

Who doesn’t love socks?

Socks have certainly come a long way. Once the much-maligned stocking filler, they’ve now become fashion staples for discerning gents. These amber merino wool numbers from Monarch of Naples provide comfort and support as well as head-turning design. In fact, these socks are everything a classic gift for him should be – stylish and practical with a healthy slice of fun. 

Need more gift inspiration? Whether you’re looking for best man presents or 40th birthday gifts for men, check out our full range of artisan gifts.   

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