As we settle into the grind of 2025, it’s time we take stock of the year ahead of us. How is it that you’d like to spend your time this year? Is there something you’d like to accomplish? Or something new you’d like to learn? As most of us begin to plan out the ways in which we can be more intentional with our time now that the fresh start of January is upon us, we’re calling it: 2025 is the year of niche hobbies.
In a world where time feels more precious than ever, carving out a moment for yourself—away from screens and responsibilities—has become a luxury. With the constant push toward productivity in our everyday lives, there’s something deeply refreshing about diving into a new hobby that’s not about outcomes or competition, but simply about enjoying the process. And of course, where would be the fun in doing something entirely conventional?
Whether you’re seeking to be more present, want a new creative outlet or are curious about trying something unexpected, try pursuing a new pastime—the more niche, the better. From beekeeping to food art, these unique hobbies offer not only an escape, but also a sense of accomplishment and joy.
To inspire you to embark on this new journey, we round up a curation of nine books that delve into a wide range of peculiar subjects—any one of which might pique your interest.
1 / 9
'Tarot' by Jessica Hundley, Penny Slinger, Johannes Fiebig and Marcella Kroll
The first of five volumes in Taschen’s spiritual series, the Library of Esoterica, Tarot traces the history of the 600-year-old practice as passed down through arcane writings and oral tradition. Traverse the entire read and you might acquire the skills to interpret the future from a deck of cards.
2 / 9
'La Table by Celine: Exquisite Food Art that Brings Nature to the Plate' by Celine Rousseau
In La Table by Celine, art is served in an edible form. With over 60 recipes encompassing a wide range of global cuisines, food blogger Celine Rousseau reveals the secrets behind her whimsical epicurean creations and how she achieves the perfect balance between flavour and visual effect.
3 / 9
'The Noma Guide to Fermentation' by René Redzepi and David Zilber
Gastronomic mecca Noma is known for transforming its ingredients through, among other things, the intriguing art of fermentation. Now, the Nordic haute restaurant is unveiling its secrets through a literary tutorial on everything from kombucha to miso, written by the chefs themselves.
4 / 9
'The Art of Memory Collecting: 15 Scrapbook, Collage, Trinket and Zine Projects for Crafting Treasured Moments' by Martina Calvi
Memory collector Martina Calvi introduces a compilation of simple yet thoughtful ideas on how you can immortalise moments from your past. From scrapbooking to framed wall art, immerse yourself in a delicate act of reflection as you consolidate treasured memorabilia into one sacred place.
5 / 9
'The Beekeeper’s Bible: Bees, Honey, Recipes & Other Home Uses' by Richard A Jones and Sharon Sweeney-Lynch
The secrets to the ancient practice of apiculture unfold in this informational tome with illustrated tips and tricks. Melding the history of bee husbandry with practical modern-day guidelines, the book also includes an array of honey-infused recipes to whip up with your first bottle of sweet honey—whether from the supermarket or extracted from your own hive.
6 / 9
'Collecting Fashion: Nostalgia, Passion, Obsession' by Alexandra Carl
‘Collecting Fashion’ emphasises the significance of archiving as an act of preservation and an emblem of taste. Chronicling the collections of fashion mavens, this pictorial coffee-table book proves the value in resisting the trend cycle and might assist you in curating your personal fashion archive.
7 / 9
'The Sinister Beauty of Carnivorous Plants' by Matthew M Kaelin
Unlike your conventional home garden, you don’t necessarily need a seasoned green thumb to nurture insectivorous plants. Dive into this encyclopaedic read where horticultural knowledge on carnivorous plant species meets majestic visuals depicting the oft-overlooked beauty of these majestic florae.
8 / 9
'Cult Sando: Classic and Modern Recipes for the Popular Japanese Sandwich' by Jimmy Callaway
If you’ve been tempted by the viral TikTok taste-testing egg sandos from the different konbinis in Japan, you’ll know that Japanese sandwiches are in a league of their own. Here, you’ll find a diverse array of easy-to-make recipes—from the classic tonkatsu to an innovative dessert sando filled with juicy fruits.
9 / 9
'The Art of Japanese Joinery' by Kiyosi Seike
A testament to the beauty of precision and patience in this age-old woodworking practice, this artful instruction manual explores the timeless art of Japanese joinery—from ancient traditions to contemporary innovation. A perfect gift for architectural aficionados or a budding builder.
The January/February ‘Resolution’ issue of Vogue Singapore is available online and on newsstands now.
