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Gifting

January 15, 2024

Amazing Gifts for Architects

Perfect Presents to “Build” Joy!

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Illustration of a guide containing gifts for architects, showing pencils, a blueprint, triangles, a ruler and a calculator.

Brent Watts and João Lucas Rocha


Santa.com wants to help you find everything you need to make the holidays special! If you purchase or click on something we link to, Santa.com may be entitled to a commission. "We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites."


For Architecture Students

101 Things I Learned in Architecture School

Written by an architect and instructor, these 101 concise lessons in design, drawing, the creative process, and presentation—from the basics of "How to Draw a Line" to the complexities of color theory—provide a much-needed primer in architectural literacy. 

Each lesson utilizes a two-page format, with a brief explanation and an illustration. The lesson on "How to Draw a Line" is illustrated by examples of good and bad lines; a lesson on the dangers of awkward floor level changes shows the television actor Dick Van Dyke in the midst of a pratfall; a discussion of the proportional differences between traditional and modern buildings features a drawing of a building split neatly in half between the two.

101 Things I Learned in Architecture School by Matthew Frederick
101 Things I Learned in Architecture School
Concise lessons in design, drawing, the creative process, and presentation, from the basics of "How to Draw a Line" to the complexities of color theory.

Detail in Contemporary Timber Architecture

Featuring the work of renowned architects from around the world, this book presents 50 of the most recently completed and influential timber designs for both residential and commercial architecture. 

Each project is presented with color photographs, site plans and sections and elevations, as well as numerous construction details. There is also a descriptive text, detailed captions and in-depth information for each project, including the location, client, architectural project team, main consultants and contractors. 

There is also a CD-ROM which contains all the drawings as printed in the book. In addition the book features an index of architects that includes the name, address and all contact details for each architect included.

Detail in Contemporary Timber Architecture by Virginia McLeod
Detail in Contemporary Timber Architecture
Provides analysis of both the technical and the aesthetic importance of details in modern timber architecture.

The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition

Business, legal, and technical trends in architecture are constantly changing. The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice has offered firms the latest guidance on those trends since 1920.

The Fifteenth Edition of this indispensable guide features nearly two thirds new content and covers all aspects of contemporary practice, including updated material on small firm practice, career development, business management, and architectural research. It also includes access to a website that contains samples of all AIA Contract Documents.

Detail in Contemporary Timber Architecture by Virginia McLeod
The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice
Business, legal, and technical trends in architecture are constantly changing. The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice has offered firms the latest guidance on those trends since 1920.

For Practicing Architects

The Architecture Reference & Specification Book updated & revised: Everything Architects Need to Know Every Day

Most architectural standards references contain thousands of pages of details, overwhelmingly more than architects need to know on any given day. In contrast, The Architecture Reference & Specification Book updated & revised distills the data provided in standard architectural volumes in an easy-to-use reference covering the most indispensable—and most requested—types of architectural information.

The Architecture Reference & Specification Book updated & revised: Everything Architects Need to Know Every Day
The Architecture Reference & Specification Book
The updated and revised edition of The Architecture Reference & Specification Book contains vital information that's essential to planning and executing architectural projects of all shapes and sizes, all in a format that is small enough to carry anywhere.

Dual Laser Rechargeable 393ft/120M Bilateral Laser Measurement Tool

A dual-laser distance meter is a valuable tool for architects, enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and overall productivity in their work. Particularly in intricate or large-scale projects, accurate measurements become paramount. A laser distance meter simplifies the process, especially in spaces with complex architectural designs.

Dual Laser Rechargeable 393ft/120M Bilateral Laser Measurement Tool
Dual Laser Rechargeable 393ft/120M Bilateral Laser Measurement Tool
The CIGMAN CD-60 multifunctional distance meter measurement tool can measure distance length, continuous measurement, wall area, spatial volume, pythagorean measurement, and midpoints.

12oz Stainless Steel Architect Tumbler Travel Mug

This architect-themed travel mug comes already gift-wrapped in an elegant box, complete with a greeting card that you can personalize with a heartfelt message. It is not only eco-friendly but also rust-resistant, ensuring long-lasting use. 

With its double-wall vacuum insulation, it keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours and hot for up to 8 hours, making it perfect for architects who are always on the go. 

12oz Stainless Steel Architect Tumbler Travel Mug
12oz Stainless Steel Architect Tumbler Travel Mug
12oz stainless steel travel mug with a funny  “architect” definition on the front.

Bastion Bolt-Action Mechanical Pencil

The Bastion carbon fiber bolt-action mechanical pencil is a mainstay of architectural firms the world over. It has an ideal weight balance, ensuring fatigue-free sketching, drawing, and writing. Its reinforced cartridge is designed to keep the lead securely contained and prevent breakage. Plus it comes in an elegant box, perfect for gift-giving!

Bastion Bolt-Action Mechanical Pencil
Bastion Bolt-Action Mechanical Pencil
Made of 100% solid carbon fiber barrel over a genuine stainless core tube, this pencil is resistant to corrosion, ensuring lasting durability. The lightweight construction allows you to draw, write, and sketch smoothly and comfortably.

2-Pack Extendable Poster Tubes with Shoulder Strap

Help your architect friend safeguard their blueprints and client documents with this sturdy, hard plastic document tube. This case telescopes to the desired length with a fast, easy expansion mechanism. Plus, you have the option to either use the handle to carry or to wear the adjustable strap as a crossbody over-the-shoulder so you’ll have hands-free movement during transport.

2-Pack Extendable Poster Tubes with Shoulder Strap
2-Pack Extendable Poster Tubes with Shoulder Strap
Protect blueprints and sketches with this sturdy, hard plastic expandable document case. A 2-pack ensures you’ll always have one at home and one at the office.

Women Architects Tote Bag

Being an architect isn’t for the fainthearted! This high-quality tote bag recognizes the architect in your life. It’s easy to carry over the shoulder, and can easily be thrown into the washer and dryer. It’s a fun gift for an architect, or architecture student.

Women Architects Tote Bag
Women Architects Tote Bag
High-quality tote bag with the inscription “Only the strongest women become architects.”

I Am Silently Judging Your House” Gift Tote Bag

Because after all, what architect isn’t? Introducing the must-have tote bag for architects with a sense of humor. This 16" x 16" bag is made of lightweight, spun polyester fabric and features two 14" long and 1" wide black cotton webbing strap handles for easy carrying. Whether they're heading to the studio, meeting clients, or simply running errands, this tote bag is not only practical but also a conversation starter.

“I Am Silently Judging Your House” Gift Tote Bag
“I Am Silently Judging Your House” Gift Tote Bag
Tote bag with the inscription “I am silently judging your house.”

For Young Fans

Science Comics: Skyscrapers: The Heights of Engineering

Every volume of Science Comics offers a complete introduction to a particular topic. These gorgeously illustrated graphic novels offer wildly entertaining views of their subjects, and are perfect for budding architects, scientists, and engineers.

In this volume, join a pair of superheroes as they uncover the secrets of skyscrapers, from the great pyramids of Egypt to the world’s tallest building. Read along and learn how skyscrapers are a bold combination of applied physics, ingenuity, and a lot of hard work!

Science Comics: Skyscrapers: The Heights of Engineering
Science Comics: Skyscrapers: The Heights of Engineering
Leave no brick unturned in John Kerschbaum's Science Comics: Skyscrapers, the latest volume in First Second’s action-packed nonfiction graphic novel series for middle-grade readers!

LEGO Architecture Farnsworth House

Replicate a modern marvel with the famed Farnsworth House™! Few one-room homes are as strikingly modern and instantly recognizable as this house, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. This single-story steel structure with floor-to-ceiling glass walls was meant to open a minimalist interior to nature in an extreme way. Construction took place from 1945–1951 on a 60-acre estate beside the Fox River in Plano, Illinois, where it still stands today. 

The assembled Farnsworth House model is over 10” (25cm) wide on a base with printed name label and includes a booklet with facts about the building, its construction and history. Perfect for inspiring future architects, engineers, and designers!

LEGO Architecture Farnsworth House 21009
LEGO Architecture Farnsworth House 21009
Architectural replica of the real-world Farnsworth House, part of the LEGO Architecture series.

Architecture for Kids: Skill-Building Activities for Future Architects

Architects play an important role in helping buildings, cities, and communities thrive. If your child is interested in architecture, “Architecture for Kids” will introduce them to all of the most important terms and skills every aspiring architect needs. They’ll explore how ideas and drawings become real buildings and learn how architects see the world from new perspectives, including with a bird's eye view, from the inside, and three-dimensionally.

Architecture for Kids: Skill-Building Activities for Future Architects
Architecture for Kids: Skill-Building Activities for Future Architects
Get excited about how buildings come to be with a book full of facts and activities about architecture. A hands-on introduction to drawing and architecture for kids aged 8 to 12.

Architecture According to Pigeons

In a bid to improve ever worsening relations between our two species, pigeon elder Speck Lee Tailfeather has been elected by his peers to reveal to human beings the truth about pigeons' finer sensibilities.

Speck plans to divulge the fact that, far from the perceived pests who plague our buildings, pigeons are in fact great admirers and aficionados of architecture. It is of course for this reason that they can be found in great numbers around the most beautiful and significant buildings in the world.

After thorough investigation, Speck picks renowned international arts publisher, Phaidon Press, to be the vehicle for his message. Phaidon agrees to send Speck on a journey around the world to visit his favorite buildings, and then to publish his writings about them. Here, in Architecture (According to Pigeons), we read his account of this journey, with information and opinions on the buildings he visits, as well as his musings on many aspects of architecture.

Architecture According to Pigeons
Architecture According to Pigeons
A pigeons-eye account of major architectural gems around the world, aimed at kids aged 8-11.

For Everyone

LEGO Architecture Skylines: Dubai 21052 Building Kit

Dubai boasts some of the most spectacular buildings in the world. Now residents, tourists and all admirers of this futuristic city can recreate its iconic landmarks with this LEGO Architecture Skyline Collection 21052 Dubai model kit. 

This building set includes scale models of Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building on completion in 2010, the 7-star Burj Al Arab Jumeirah hotel, the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, plus The Dubai Fountain and the extraordinary Dubai Frame. 

With easy-to-follow instructions, even LEGO set newbies will be able to build the detailed miniatures. And when displayed together on the base, this cool, collectible desk toy is sure to grab people’s attention.

LEGO Architecture Skylines: Dubai 21052 Building Kit
LEGO Architecture Skylines: Dubai 21052 Building Kit
This spectacular LEGO Architecture building set for adults brings together highly detailed models of iconic Dubai buildings and landmarks to inspire all admirers of this exciting, modern city.

Mondrian Insulated Lunch Bag

The eye-catching Mondrian design of this insulated lunch tote adds a touch of artistic flair to your lunchtime routine. Inspired by the iconic works of Piet Mondrian, the vibrant colors and geometric patterns make a bold statement wherever you go. Stand out from the crowd and let your lunch bag become a conversation starter.

Mondrian Insulated Lunch Bag
Mondrian Insulated Lunch Bag
Reusable insulated lunch tote bag adorned with a Mondrian design. No more worrying about soggy sandwiches or lukewarm soup! 

What Kind of Architect Are You?

What Kind of Architect Are You? offers a glimpse into a vast array of professional possibilities and points out meaningful alternatives to the prevailing myth of the “starchitect.” 

It provides those in search of an architect with insights into how we work and helps them to formulate expectations. It challenges practitioners to think introspectively and examine how they fit into the architectural spectrum. And finally, the collection documents the cross-section of cultural and architectural practice across America.

What Kind of Architect Are You?
What Kind of Architect Are You?
This book helps those in search of an architect to formulate expectations, challenges practitioners to think introspectively, and documents the cross-section of architectural practice across America.

Modern Architecture Game 

Test your knowledge of the greatest architects, their famous buildings and their legendary quotes by answering general questions about architecture and popular culture. The second edition of the new Trivia board game designed by Next Architecture promises to be a party hit amongst architecture lovers as they ponder which bridge is the highest in France.

Modern Architecture Game
Modern Architecture Game 
The second edition of the new Trivia board game designed to test your knowledge of the greatest architects, their famous buildings, and their legendary quotes.

Spaces Set of Nine Concrete Architecture Model

These miniature concrete homes are designed to advocate and celebrate concrete's beauty, efficacy, and incalculable contribution to creating and defining spaces in modern life.

The nine concrete homes come together to form a multitude of in-between spaces, which form new transit routes and spaces that can be moved around according to one's imagination.

This set is truly a feast for the creative mind and toying around with it can offer a much-needed play break from the daily routes.

Spaces Set of Nine Concrete Architecture Model
Spaces Set of Nine Concrete Architecture Model
Inspired by the best and most influential concrete architecture of the last century, these miniature concrete homes are designed to advocate and celebrate concrete's beauty, efficacy, and incalculable contribution to creating and defining spaces in modern life.

Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House Stacking Stones Ceramic Salt & Pepper Set

These iconic Stacking Stones salt pepper shakers are based on the famous Frederick C. Robie house in Chicago. Made of ceramic, they are fired at a high temperature to maximize their strength and make them more resistant to cracks, stains, and scratches.

Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House Stacking Stones Ceramic Salt & Pepper Set
Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House Stacking Stones Ceramic Salt & Pepper Set
These Frank Lloyd Wright Salt Pepper Shakers are the perfect gift for an architect or Frank Lloyd Wright aficionado. This salt pepper shakers' design is adapted from the Frederick C. Robie house in Chicago.

Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater 2-Sided 500-Piece Puzzle

A fun challenge for adults and families, this double-sided 500-piece puzzle features Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater house. With a beautiful picture of the home's exterior on one side and an aerial blueprint of the grounds on the other, you get two puzzles in one.

Thoughtfully Built in 1935, Fallingwater remains one of the most unique houses in the world built by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most iconic architects of all time. The box includes an insert with information about Wright and this amazing structure.

Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater 2-Sided 500-Piece Puzzle
Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater 2-Sided 500-Piece Puzzle
500-piece Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater two-sided puzzle based on one of the most unique houses in the world.

Frank Lloyd Wright 14oz Tree of Life Tumbler Set

Inspired by the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, the aesthetic, texture, and color of these glasses speak to both enthusiasts of his work and those that have an eye for design. Using a combination of opaque and translucent color, the design allows light to become another dimension of the design. 

The Tree of Life glass design is based on one of the 4,000 leaded art glass window and door designs featured prominently throughout the Darwin D. Martin House (Buffalo, NY 1903-05). Wright also created art glass designs for doors, skylights, back-lit ceilings panels, table lamps, and wall sconces

The Frank Lloyd Wright 2-Packs come in a Frank Lloyd Wright Gift Box and are packed in a re-shipper box for safe transit.

Frank Lloyd Wright 14oz Tree of Life Tumbler Set
Frank Lloyd Wright 14oz Tree of Life Tumbler Set
Two Old Fashioned glasses in a design based on Frank Lloyd Wright’s Tree of Life featured in the Darwin D. Martin house in Buffalo, NY.

Iittala Alvar Aalto 120mm Clear Vase

In 1936, Alvar Aalto created his classic series of glass vases. The Alvar Aalto Collection has been a staple of modern Scandinavian design and the most iconic series in the Iittala range ever since. 

Today, just as then, each and every vase in the Alvar Aalto Collection is mouth-blown at the Iittala glass factory. Created in a wide range of colors and sizes, a vase from the Aalto Collection is a pleasure to own or give as a gift.

Iittala Alvar Aalto 120mm Clear Vase
Iittala Alvar Aalto 120mm Clear Vase
120mm clear crystal glass vase designed by Finnish designer Alvar Aalto.

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