Games Night… But Make It Super Chic
From designer backgammon to statement chess sets, here are all the luxury grown-up games for what’s fast becoming one of the hottest nights in…
Last year, I was introduced to learning how to play chess. I baulked at the idea, with an admittedly ignorant stereotype knocking about my tiny mind. Ridiculous, I know, especially given the success of the award-winning Netflix drama The Queen’s Gambit. The show catapulted chess into the style arena; suddenly, it was chic, stylish, and perhaps a little sexy. Fast-forward to today, and every young, relevant being appears to have jumped aboard the retro game train.
Sally Rooney‘s latest justly hyped novel, Intermezzo, follows two brothers navigating the challenges of both grief and love. One of them – Ivan – happens to be a chess player. Yet again, it’s easy to see why we’re leaning into grown-up games. Pop culture is swaying us that way.
And it’s not all about chess. Outrageously cool fashion brands, namely KoiBird and Hunza G, have collaborated with luxury game company Maison Games to create the most beautiful backgammon sets… which, let’s face it, will look gorgeous on your coffee table, whether they’re used or not. Then there is Abask, co-founded by Tom Chapman and Nicolas Pickaerts, to ‘shine a light on exceptional craftsmanship and design’, which extends to exquisite hand-crafted games. They have declared ‘The Resurgence Of Games.’ So, check out The Game Room on the Abask site for everything from leather Rummikub sets to an investment-worthy Maple and Walnut Mahjong Set.
Games are an antidote to the noise of life, but you also enjoy a very different conversation with someone when playing a game, much like being in a car with someone… it’s somehow more free-flowing. The psychological element is also fascinating, sussing out your opponent and knowing if you are going to win or lose.” ~ Alexandra Llewellyn, Founder of her eponymous luxury games brand.
Granted, you’ll find more affordable options everywhere, from Argos to Amazon. But because nothing beats ogling the finer things in life, I’ve pulled together a selection of luxury grown-up games. We’re talking 4 In A Row, poker, dominoes and, of course, chess. Are you game-face ready?
Scroll to shop luxe grown-up games…
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