30 Best Gifts for Architects In Your Life

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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1. Plastic Pencil & Brush Holder

U.S. Art Supply 96 Hole Plastic Pencil & Brush Holder -…
  • Easy To Assemble 96 Hole Plastic Desktop Paint Brush, Pen, &…
  • The perfect way to keep your art brushes, markers, pens and…
  • Easy To Stay Organized and Efficient When All Items Are Stored In…
  • No More Wasted Time Finding Your Drawing Utensils In A Drawer.
  • Great For Brushes, Pens, Markers, Crayons & More (Brushes &…

Plastic Pencil & Brush Holder

Image Credit: amazon.com



2. Modern Table Light

Sale
Desk Lamp with Clamp | Swing Arm Desk Light | Eye…
  • ★Adjustable Swing Arm Lamp – 270°swivel lamp head, 40″ 3 joint…
  • ★Eye Caring & Energy Saving – 98 high-efficiency LEDs provide…
  • ★Multiple Lighting Choices – Touch control and memory function…
  • ★Space Saving Clamp Design – Attached wide clamp(supports up to…
  • ★What You Get – Swing Arm Foldable Desk Lamp (Material: premium…



Modern Architect Table Light

Image Credit: amazon.com



3. Laser Measure

Leica DISTO D2 New 100m/330ft Metric Imperial Laser…
  • The Leica DISTO D2 is a 7 measurement mode laser distance meter….
  • The D2 offers multiple modes of measurement that are useful for…
  • The D2 measures from its base by default and can be configured to…
  • While the D2 only weighs 3 ounces (100g) and can easily fit in a…
  • If you’ll be taking measurements often enough indoors to require…

laser measure

Image Credit: theguidr.com

4. 3D Printing Pen

MYNT3D Super 3D Pen, 1.75mm ABS and PLA Compatible 3D…
  • Turn your ordinary drawings into 3D works of art
  • Stepless speed slider lets you regulate flow for optimal control…
  • New: ultrasonic sealed nozzle is nearly clog-proof and provides…
  • The Super 3D Printing Pen is great for kids, artists and…
  • Kit includes 3 colors of ABS plastic filament A/C adapter and…

Super 3D Pen

Image Credit: amazon.com

5. Ruler Pendant

Sale
Greendou Fashion Jewelry Vintage Gold/Silver Tape…
  • Material: Alloy.
  • Novel scale measuring tape twisted heart Shaped ruler pendant…
  • The Unique Design and Fashion Style Will Attract People’s…
  • Necklace length: 45+5 cm/ 18+2 inch.
  • Vintage silver and gold color, easy to match your clothes, suit…

Ruler Pendant

Image Credit: amazon.com

Will be a unique gift for any lover of architecture and architecture who wants to wear something connected to his work.

6. 101 Things I Learned In Architecture School

Sale
101 Things I Learned in Architecture School
  • 101 Things I Learned in Architecture School
  • Hardcover Book
  • Frederick, Matthew (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 128 Pages – 08/31/2007 (Publication Date) – The MIT Press…

101 Things I Learned In Architecture School

Image Credit: amazon.com

7. The Future Of Architecture In 100 Buildings (TED Books)

Sale
The Future of Architecture in 100 Buildings (TED Books)
  • Simon Schuster Ted
  • Hardcover Book
  • Kushner, Marc (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 176 Pages – 03/10/2015 (Publication Date) – Simon & Schuster/ TED…

8. Pencil Set With Refill Leads & Erasers 

Pentel Arts GraphGear 1000 Premium Gift Set with Refill…
  • Superior drafting Pencil for professionals and enthusiasts
  • Easily identify your lead Type with the built-in lead hardness…
  • Dual-action retractor advances and retracts Pencil tip to protect…
  • Finely chiseled metallic grip inlaid with soft, latex-free pads
  • 4mm tip length makes it ideal for use with rulers and templates

Pencil Set

Image Credit: amazon.com

9. Triangular Aluminium Scale Ruler

Arteza Architect Scale Ruler, Imperial, 12-Inch…
  • 12 Inch Ruler Featuring 3 Sides & 6 Different Scales: The…
  • High-Visibility Grooves Will Not Fade or Smear: All measurements…
  • Made of Professional-Grade Anodized Aluminum: The aluminum is…
  • Designed and Created by Artists: Here at Arteza, we are…
  • We Care About Our Customers: We want to ensure you have a great…

Triangular Aluminium Scale Ruler

Image Credit: amazon.com

10. Reusable Smart Notebook

Sale
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook – Dot-Grid…
  • No more wasting paper – this 36 page dotted grid notebook can be…
  • Blast your handwritten notes to popular cloud services like…
  • Allow 15 seconds for ink from any Pilot Frixion pen marker or…
  • Sophisticated AI technology allows you to use Rocketbook’s…
  • Includes 1 Rocketbook Core (formerly known as Everlast) Executive…

Reusable Smart Notebook

Image Credit: amazon.com

11. The LEGO Architect

The LEGO Architect
  • Hardcover Book
  • Alphin, Tom (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 192 Pages – 09/24/2015 (Publication Date) – No Starch Press…

Lego Architecture Studio

Image Credit: amazon.com

It goes very well with the Lego Architecture Studio set as a gift idea as they help one create his or her architectural style.

12. Iggy Peck, Architect

Sale
Iggy Peck, Architect (The Questioneers)
  • Abrams Books for Young Readers
  • Hardcover Book
  • Beaty, Andrea (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 32 Pages – 10/01/2007 (Publication Date) – Abrams Books for Young…

Iggy Peck, Architect (Hardcover)

Image Credit: abramsbooks.com

13. Decorated Coffee Mug

Architecture coffee mug

Image Credit: amazon.com

14. Architect Desk Lamp/Clamp Lamp

Sale
Phive CL-1 LED Architect Desk Lamp / Clamp Lamp, Metal…
  • Protect Eyes – Close to daylight illumination, diffusion panel…
  • Stepless Dimming – Memory of brightness, free to adjust and easy…
  • Highly Adjustable – 180°swivel lamp head,16.3+16.3 inches…
  • Longevity & Energy Saving – 50000 hours lifespan, no bulb…
  • What you get – 1 x Desk Lamp, 1 x Metal Clamp (up to 2.36inch), 1…

Architect desk lamp

Image Credit: amazon.com

15. The Dot

Sale
The Dot
  • The Dot
  • Hardcover Book
  • Peter H Reynolds (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 32 Pages – 09/15/2003 (Publication Date) – Candlewick (Publisher)

The dot

Image Credit: amazon.com

15. The Day the Crayons Quit

Sale
The Day the Crayons Quit
  • Funny back-to-school story.
  • Duncan’s crayons quit coloring. Crayons have feelings, too.
  • What can Duncan do to appease the crayons and get them back…
  • Contains 40 pages and measures 9.25″ x 6.25″.
  • Recommended for ages 3 – 7 years.

The Day the Crayons Quit is not an architecture-related book however, it is included because it addresses the imagination and uniqueness of a box of crayons.

The day the crayons quit

Image Credit: littlescientists.org.au

So this may not fall entirely in the bracket of architecture but it could be a great educational as well as an entertaining gift for children interested in arts and modern designs.

16. The Paris Architect: A Novel

Sale
The Paris Architect: A WWII Novel
  • Sourcebooks Landmark
  • Belfoure, Charles (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 400 Pages – 07/15/2014 (Publication Date) – Sourcebooks Landmark…

The Paris Architect

Image Credit: amazon.com

17. Poster Tube

Juvale Blueprint, Document, Poster Tube with Strap -…
  • Juvale blueprint, document, poster tube with strap – expandable…
  • This durable tube holder protect your posters, artwork, and…
  • Tube is water and light resistant – it protects materials against…
  • This versatile tube has unlimited uses for storage: posters, blue…
  • Telescoping poster tube could extend from 24.8 inches to 40.12…

 Drawing Art Carrying Case Holder

Image Credit: walmart.ca

Architects will need a poster tube where they can safely roll and keep their architectural drawings or blueprints if they have to send them.

18. The Official BS Button

The Official BS Button
  • Giant red button makes a hilarious statement or two
  • Perfect for calling out BS without having to say a word yourself
  • The button will call it like you see it

Bullshit button

Image Credit: amazon.com

19. Fuck It! Button

Sale
Fuck It! Button
  • Fuck It Button brings humorous stress relief to life’s most…
  • Features 10 outrageously funny Fuck It phrases with crazy…
  • Office desk toys make for funny office gifts, funny gag gifts and…
  • Fuck It Button is made very durable, lightweight, and is battery…
  • Sound button is black with a big red button. Button sold…

Fuck It! Button

Image Credit: amazon.com

20. Fantastic Cities: A Coloring Book Of Amazing Places Real And Imagined

Sale
Fantastic Cities: A Coloring Book of Amazing Places…
  • A Coloring Book of Amazing Places Real and Imagined
  • Detailed aerial views of numerous world cities for coloring
  • Fantastical architecture illustrations
  • From Canadian artist Steve McDonald
  • Paperback with 48 pages

Fantastic Cities

Image Credit: amazon.com

This would be a wonderful gift for adult coloring fanatics who are interested in architecture, modern art, and design.

21. Frank Lloyd Wright Double-Sided Puzzle

Galison Frank Lloyd Wright Fallingwater 2-Sided 500…
  • 500-PIECE PUZZLE: A fun challenge for adults and families the…
  • DOUBLE-SIDED: With a beautiful picture of the home’s exterior on…
  • STURDY STORAGE BOX: The attractive and sturdy 11. 5” x 8. 5”…
  • PHOTO ART: Built in 1935, Fallingwater remains one of the most…
  • BRINGING ART INTO EVERYDAY LIFE: For over 40 years, Galison has…

Frank Lloyd Wright Double Sided Puzzle

Image Credit: amazon.com

It was a challenging- but rewarding and playful- 500-piece puzzle that was ideal for my friend who is learning to be an architect

22. Trust Me I’m An Architect T-Shirt

Trust me I’m an architect T-Shirt
  • Trust me I’m an architect slogan with compass for all building…
  • Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem

Trust Me I'm An Architect t-shirt

Image Credit: alicdn.com



23. Fine-Liner Pen Set

MyLifeUNIT Fineliner Color Pen Set, 0.4mm Colored Fine…
  • Fineliner 10 Pack in BRILLIANT COLORS, 0.38 mm Fine Point,…
  • Fineliner with superfine, metal-clad tip and outstanding…
  • Especially used by the designers of Architecutre, AD, Comic…
  • Line width approx. 0.4 mm. Water-based ink. Washes out of many…
  • MyLifeUNIT Color Pen Set, Set of 10 Assorted Colors. Packaged in…

A

Fine-Liner Pen Set

Image Credit: amazon.com

24. Frank Lloyd Wright Double Old Fashioned Glass

Frank Lloyd Wright DOF Double Old Fashioned Glass…
  • Licensed Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Glassware
  • Frank Lloyd Wright Coonley Playhouse print
  • The Coonley Playhouse DOF Glass design is adapted from a window…
  • GIFT BOXED: Set of 2 DOF Double Old Fashioned Glasses 14-Ounce
  • Dimensions each (inches): 3.375 diameter x 4.25 height. Hand Wash…

Frank Lloyd Wright Double Glass

Image Credit: amazon.com

25. Lego Architecture Studio

LEGO Architecture Studio 21050 Playset
  • Release your inner architect and explore a world of endless…
  • Includes 1210 white and transparent LEGO bricks, sorting trays…
  • Guidebook written in collaboration with leading architects and…
  • Use the monochromatic bricks to help you learn the fundamentals…
  • Endorsed by REX architecture, Sou Fujimoto Architects, SOM, MAD…

Lego Architecture Studio

Image Credit: amazon.com

26. Professor Puzzle Notre Dame

Metal Earth Premium Series Notre Dame Cathedral 3D…
  • HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model with easy to follow…
  • NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the…
  • PREMIUM SERIES NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL– 2 Sheet Model with a…
  • FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using…
  • HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once…

I recently worked on the Professor Puzzle Notre Dame set, and I must say it was an incredible experience. The set comes with all the pieces necessary to recreate the famous cathedral piece by piece, and it was a fun and engaging challenge for me as an architect. The set is ideal for those interested in architecture, especially for students or professionals in the field.

Professor Puzzle Notre Dame

Image Credit: amazon.com

What I loved about the set was the attention to detail. Every piece was well crafted, and the finished product was a stunning replica of the Notre Dame Cathedral. I also appreciated that the set required patience and concentration, making it even more satisfying when it was completed. It is a fun and challenging way to explore architecture and appreciates famous structures’ artistry.

27. MoMA Perpetual Calendar

arteum – Perpetual Calendar, Cubes…
  • Colour: Multi-coloured
  • Weight: 0.021 kg
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 4.445 x 12.065 x 5.715 cm

The MoMA desktop calendar has become an exquisite ornament that enhances my workspace. The modern design appears sleek and the colorful cubes bring energetic visual appeal to my desk surface. The cubes find their natural position on the black base while establishing a unified and fashionable design.

MoMA Perpetual Calendar

Image Credit: amazon.com

As an architect, I appreciate the attention to detail in the design, and it’s a perfect way to keep track of dates and appointments. This is an excellent gift for architects or anyone who loves modern art and design.

28. Michael Graves Architect Color Pencil Set

Sale
An Architect’s Pencil Set: The Colors of Michael…
  • Hardcover Book
  • Michael Graves Architecture & Design (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 11/20/2018 (Publication Date) – Princeton Architectural Press…

I was genuinely impressed with the Michael Graves Architect Color Pencil Set. The variety of colors is fantastic, and I love how the palette captures Graves’s unique approach to design, almost like bringing his architectural vision to life on paper.

The pencils glide smoothly, making sketching and drawing feel effortless—perfect for both quick ideas and detailed artwork.

29. Acacia Grove Mini Red Bricks with Pallet

Acacia Grove Mini Red Bricks with Pallet, 100 Pack,…
  • A VERY UNIQUE GIFT – Surprise them with a highly original gift…
  • DESIGNED WITH ACCURACY – These miniature bricks are made of…
  • MANY USES – Often used for diorama supplies, dollhouse…
  • HANDMADE IN THE USA! – We only use authentic construction…
  • WARNING – CHOKING HAZARD. SMALL PARTS. NOT FOR CHILDREN UNDER 8…

An architect should perform visualizations and experiments with new structural designs because this process remains essential to our profession. I felt delighted when someone gave me the Acacia Grove Mini Red Bricks with Pallet. I now possess 90 actual concrete mini-bricks that provide detailed construction elements for fabricating miniature project ideas.

Acacia Grove Mini Red Bricks with Pallet

Image Credit: amazon.com

What I love most about this set is that the bricks are 1/12th the size of real bricks, making them perfect for creating detailed models. Plus, the pallet makes it easy to keep everything organized and in one place, so I can work on my projects wherever I go. This is a fantastic gift for any architect who loves experimenting and creating new structures.

30. Drawing and Sketching Pencil Set in Zippered Carrying Case

Sale
Drawing and Sketching Pencil Set In Zippered Carrying…
  • The customized zippered carrying case allows ease of travel while…
  • The Keep N’ Carry features elastic bands to hold all your tools…
  • Includes 12 graphite pencils, 1 white eraser, 1 sharpener, 1…
  • Keep N’ Carry measures 6-inch by 10-3/4-inch

Zippered Carrying Case

Image Credit: amazon.com

The zippered carrying case is the perfect size to keep all the components together and makes it easy to transport your pencils wherever you go. I love its sleekness and compactness, which fits perfectly in my backpack.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Gifts for Architects

1. Their Interests

The selection process for architect gifts starts by understanding what the architect likes to do. Selection of gifts regarding their particular interests demonstrates your dedicated effort in choosing appropriate gifts for architects.

Architects who show interest in distinct architectural styles would appreciate acquiring a book that investigates the works of these specialists. You should provide them admission passes to view local exhibits along with museum memberships if they want to visit these facilities.

2. Their Needs

You should consider the requirements of architects as a primary aspect in your selection process. Tools together with different materials serve as essential resources for architects to design and develop their work. A high-quality sketchbook along with drafting pens would make a practical gift that helps the architect in their professional work.

The creation of designs requires software and hardware tools so consider offering them either software subscription membership or tablet or computer equipment to fulfill their needs.

Architect

3. Quality and Durability

Architects appreciate quality and durability. They value enduring designs and materials so they will appreciate gifts featuring quality attributes that match these characteristics.

A high-quality drafting set or sketchbook using heavy-weight paper meant for repeated erasing would make a perfect choice as durable gifts for an architect.

4. Design and Aesthetics

The design excellence and visual appeal of things matter most to architects. Design professionals notice design easily because they tend to enjoy receiving presents that mirror their design-focused nature.

A perfect gift for an architecture lover should have an appealing design which mirrors their design aesthetic while also being truly original like a distinctive desktop accessory or an architectural wall display. A suitable present for architects should align precisely with their design preferences including modern, minimalist or traditional elements.

5. Uniqueness

Architects are creative individuals and appreciate unique gifts that reflect their individuality. Consider gifting something not commonly found, such as a 3D printing pen or a set of drafting pens in unique colors. Unusual and creative gifts can spark their creativity and inspire new ideas.

concept development process

6. Practicality

Architects often have busy schedules and appreciate gifts that are practical and useful. Look for a gift that helps them in their daily routine, such as a unique pen holder or a desk lamp. Practical gifts that help them stay organized or work more efficiently are always appreciated.

7. Budget

Frequently Asked Questions on Gifts for Architects

1. What is a good gift for an architect?

When choosing a present for an architect select items which both contemplate their needs and embrace their design philosophy. The best present would be tools directly applicable to their professional work including superior drafting supplies with sturdy sketchbooks and access to design software subscriptions.

A suitable gift for architects must demonstrate their aesthetic preferences through distinctive office equipment or wall decorations that seek to match their architectural design style. The gift needs to be both distinctive and not frequently encountered because unusual options include a 3D printing pen alongside a set of drafting pens which utilize distinct color schemes. The gift needs to match your budget while focusing on both their personal needs and interests.

2. How do you thank an architect?

If you’ve worked with an architect on a project and want to show appreciation, there are several ways to thank them. Here are some ideas:

  • Write a Thank-You Note: A handwritten note expressing your appreciation for their work is a thoughtful gesture that can go a long way. Be specific about what you appreciated about their work and how it made a difference.

  • Send a Gift: A small gift like a bottle of wine inside an elegant wine bottle bag or a gift basket can be an excellent way to show gratitude. Consider something they would enjoy, such as a book on architecture, a piece of art, or a gift card to a favorite restaurant.

  • Leave a Positive Review: If you worked with an architect on a public project, leaving a positive review on their website, social media, or public platforms like Yelp, Houzz, or Google Reviews can help them attract new clients.

  • Refer them to Others: If you know someone looking for an architect, referring them to the architect you worked with can be a great way to show appreciation and help the architect grow their business.

  • Give them Credit: If the architect’s work is featured in a publication, an article, or social media post, give them credit.

3. What gift can I get an architect who has a keen eye for design?

Architects show exceptional design abilities so gifts that appeal to their design interests should be considered. The best present for architects combines architectural elements into one-of-a-kind furniture pieces or unique lighting features and custom jewelry designs.

4. What kind of gifts can I get for an architect just starting their career?

An architectural newbie would find a practical present that aligns with their career path to be an excellent choice. It is best to purchase high-end drafting tools together with a professional portfolio case or subscribe to architecture-focused publications. These presents enable professionals to develop their professional equipment while keeping updated with modern field trends.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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