Architects, with their keen eye for detail and passion for design, can be notoriously difficult to shop for. Struggling to find the perfect present for the architect in your life? Look no further! We’ve curated a list inspired by recommendations from the talented team at IKM Architecture, featuring gifts that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and sure to spark creativity. Whether it’s for the holidays, a birthday, or just because, these architect-approved gifts are guaranteed to impress.
Craighill Cal Bookends
Craighill Cal Bookends upholding books on a shelf
Craighill Cal Bookends displayed with decorative fake books
“An object whose purpose is to literally uphold knowledge,” these Craighill Cal Bookends are more than just functional; they are a statement piece. Their minimalist design and solid construction make them a sophisticated addition to any architect’s bookshelf or desk, perfectly embodying the blend of form and function that architects appreciate.
Dusen Dusen Everybody Salt & Pepper Grinders
Dusen Dusen Everybody Salt & Pepper Grinders in an angled kitchen setting
Inject some playful personality into the kitchen with the Dusen Dusen Everybody Salt & Pepper Grinders. “Who needs friends when you’ve got faces on your kitchen items?” These quirky grinders bring a touch of humor and modern design to everyday cooking, making them a fun and unique gift for architects who appreciate a dash of whimsy in their lives.
Eames Office House of Cards
Eames Office House of Cards spread out on a surface showing geometric patterns
“Toys are not really as innocent as they look. Toys and games are preludes to serious ideas.” – Charles and Ray Eames. The Eames Office House of Cards is a classic design toy that encourages creativity and spatial thinking. Architects, known for their innovative minds, will appreciate this set for its design history and potential for sparking new ideas, whether for a moment of desk diversion or a creative brainstorming session.
Alessi Magic Bunny Toothpick Holder
Alessi Magic Bunny Toothpick Holder with bunny figure partially out of hat
Close up of Alessi Magic Bunny Toothpick Holder showing toothpick details
“It’s like pulling a rabbit out of a hat, except the rabbit now comes with toothpicks – your newest after-dinner party trick.” The Alessi Magic Bunny Toothpick Holder is a delightful and functional desk accessory. This playful yet elegant object adds a touch of magic to any architect’s workspace and is a conversation starter, perfect for those who enjoy hosting or simply appreciate clever design.
This Annoying Life: A Mindless Coloring Book for the Highly Stressed
Cover of "This Annoying Life" coloring book featuring relatable everyday frustrations
Inside page of "This Annoying Life" coloring book showing intricate line drawings
“From trying to assemble flat pack furniture to clearing an office paper jam… the dozens of witty and sympathetically amusing illustrations in the This Annoying Life Coloring Book offer real therapy…”. Architecture can be a demanding profession. “This Annoying Life: A Mindless Coloring Book for the Highly Stressed” provides a humorous and relaxing outlet. It’s a perfect gift for architects to de-stress and unwind after a long day of deadlines and intricate designs, offering a mindful escape with relatable scenarios.
Perpetual Cubes Calendar
Perpetual Cubes Calendar in CMYK colors with different arrangements
“Arrange the cubes of this desk calendar to indicate the weekday, month, and date in perfect ready for print, CMYK colors!” The Perpetual Cubes Calendar is a visually striking and functional desk accessory. Its CMYK color scheme is a nod to the design world, making it a thoughtful and practical gift for architects who appreciate both aesthetics and organization in their workspace.
Idea Bulb Paperweight
Idea Bulb Paperweight in yellow, angled on a desk surface
“From Nicolai Canetti… comes this quirky Idea Bulb Paperweight. Inspired by… a light bulb as a source of ideas and symbol for creativity…”. The Idea Bulb Paperweight is a symbolic and sculptural object for an architect’s desk. This paperweight serves as a constant reminder of inspiration and innovation, key elements in the architectural profession, while adding a touch of postmodern design flair.
TEALEAVES Pantone Collection Tea Sampler
TEALEAVES Pantone Collection Tea Sampler with colorful tea boxes
“Immerse yourself in TEALEAVES’ and the PANTONE COLOR INSTITUTE’s #PaletteForYourPalate, where a palette of 10 iconic tea blends are muse to over 30+ world-class chefs and mixologists.” The TEALEAVES Pantone Collection Tea Sampler is a sensory experience for design enthusiasts. Architects, who often work with color palettes, will appreciate this unique collaboration. It’s a delightful gift that combines the love of color with the ritual of tea, perfect for a moment of creative refreshment.
TRACE Sketchbook
TRACE Sketchbook showing translucent trace paper pages
“A sketchbook made from trace paper, for the perfect layered refinement!” The TRACE Sketchbook is a specialized tool for architects who value sketching and layering ideas. This sketchbook, made with translucent trace paper, allows for overlays and iterative design processes, making it an essential and thoughtful gift for architects who still appreciate hand-drawing and conceptualizing on paper.
Alessi Tigrito Cat Bowl
Alessi Tigrito Cat Bowl featuring a cat figure and stainless steel bowls
Top-down view of Alessi Tigrito Cat Bowl showing bowl placement and cat design
“A playful and ergonomic feeder for your feline friends.” For the architect who is also a cat lover, the Alessi Tigrito Cat Bowl is the purrfect gift. Combining functionality with a whimsical design, this cat bowl is both practical for pet owners and aesthetically pleasing, embodying the architect’s appreciation for well-designed objects, even for their furry companions.
The Architecture of the Cocktail
Cover of "The Architecture of the Cocktail" book featuring cocktail illustrations
“The perfect home begins with a blueprint and a dream and your perfect cocktail should start the same way.” “The Architecture of the Cocktail” book draws a creative parallel between building design and crafting drinks. This book is an imaginative and entertaining gift for architects who enjoy cocktails and appreciate the artistry in both design and mixology, offering a fun way to unwind and explore new creations.
Herschel Settlement Pencil Case
Herschel Settlement Pencil Case in grey color, displayed closed
“Put pencils — and pens — in their perfect place. Keep art supplies organized in your backpack, or carry with a convenient handle.” The Herschel Settlement Pencil Case is a practical and stylish organizational tool. Architects often carry various pens, pencils, and tools. This durable and well-designed pencil case helps keep their essential drawing instruments organized and easily accessible, whether in the studio or on the go.
Lego Architecture Great Pyramid of Giza
Lego Architecture Great Pyramid of Giza set box and assembled model
“Take an imaginative leap back in time to the 26th century BC and experience the building of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World with this LEGO Architecture Great Pyramid of Giza (21058) model building kit for adults.” The LEGO Architecture Great Pyramid of Giza set is an engaging and educational gift. Architects often appreciate the history of architecture and the ingenuity of ancient structures. This LEGO set allows them to build a miniature marvel, offering a hands-on experience in architectural history and design.
Architect’s Cubes
Architect’s Cubes set showcasing different material cubes
“Each of the eight cubes in this collection is made of a different natural and composite material… The Architect’s Cubes can be combined to create a large cube or arranged individually as sculptural building blocks.” Architect’s Cubes are a tactile and educational gift that explores materiality in design. Made from various materials, these cubes allow architects to physically engage with different textures and compositions, serving as both a desk toy and a material sample library, inspiring a deeper understanding of building components.
HAY Pattern Candles
HAY Pattern Candles set of four with geometric patterns and colors
“HAY’s Pattern candles delight with their fun, geometric patterns, and work as a playful decorative element either individually or in a group of several candles.” HAY Pattern Candles bring a touch of color and geometric design to any space. Architects with an eye for interior aesthetics will appreciate these candles as decorative accents for their home or office. The playful patterns and vibrant colors make them a stylish and thoughtful gift.
Finding the perfect gift for an architect doesn’t have to be a daunting task. This curated list, inspired by architect professionals, offers a range of unique, practical, and inspiring gifts that cater to their design sensibilities and professional needs. From desk accessories to creative outlets, there’s something here to delight every architect and designer. Choose a gift that speaks to their passion and elevates their workspace or downtime.
