In Manhattan, the chicest people you know probably aren’t playing poker – they’re playing backgammon. Thanks in part to private members’ clubs like 7 Spring, where strategy salons, elaborate dinners, and cocktail-fueled tournaments have turned the rainy day diversion into social currency, the game has taken on a kind of luxurious legitimacy. Naturally, the board itself has become a must-have piece of coffee table decor.
Between the dice cups, doubling cube, checkers, and carrying case, there’s plenty of room for indulgence. Leather, mother-of-pearl, mahogany, and custom monogrammed inlays give these boards a handbag-rivaling appeal. If you've ever wondered what the Hermès Kelly Pochette of backgammon looks like, Geoffrey Parker has the answer. The brand, which introduced its first leather-clad set in 1961, still sets the standard with tonal acrylic hybrids that cost about the same. Meanwhile, newer names like Jonathan Adler and MaisonGames are loosening things up with animal prints, tortoiseshell finishes, and turquoise leather that feels distinctly Côte d’Azur-coded (which works out nicely, as many of these boards are designed to travel, too).
And even if backgammon remains more of a sometimes sport than a daily ritual, the glamour of the 5,000-year-old pastime still holds. We’re particularly fond of Verve Culture’s retro-inspired $45 set, while Anthropologie’s $59 version doubles as both a serving board and a secondary stage for checkers.
Call it a two-timing coffee table trend, a chic conversation starter, or simply insurance against an uninspired evening. Shop 16 sets for endlessly entertaining gatherings ahead.
The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.
Love beautiful design ideas, expert advice, and inspiring decor trends? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.
