51 Must-Have Gifts for Architects and Engineers In 2023

Buying gifts for others is an art. Unless you want to give them something familiar and impersonal, you will need to spend a considerable amount of time in deciding a gift based on the person. Gifting architects and engineers never seem to be an easy task. They are the kind of people who don’t just build things but also add life to those things.

And, some have claimed that architects are a picky lot. They have a different viewpoint from others, which makes them successful at what they do. So, what do you gift such talented people in your life? Worry not, anymore. We have collected 51 must-have gifts for architects and engineers exclusively for you in this blog. Scroll through the ideas and pick the ones you love the best. Whether it is for Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions, you can find a gift for your favorite architect and engineer from this post. The gifts have been listed in no particular order.

The Must-Have List

1. LEGO Architecture Studio

Nothing like the word LEGO can bring a huge grin to the architect’s face. No matter how many building blocks they have, LEGO has its charm. And this fantastic set has 1210 monochromatic bricks, a book with various architectural concepts and their history, and sorting trays. Designed by Adam Reed Tucker, an architectural modeler, this set is endorsed by some famous names in the market. Creativity has no limits. Let your architect build and build using the architecture studio set.

2. MOYANG Magnetic Building Blocks

Whether your loved one is a budding architect or a famous one, fidget toys, and building blocks are great gift items. Apart from being stress busters, these help them build creative, innovative designs, and models anytime. The 216 magnetic pieces in this set can be used to create whatever design comes to their creative minds. These are easy to carry while traveling, making them engaging travel companions.

3. Alessi Niche Centerpiece by Zaha Hadid

Famous modern architect Zaha Hadid has designed this unique table center piece for Alessi, the luxury Italian homewares company. The curves, angles, and edges of this piece are lovely and can blend with any background while attracting attention at the same time. The five pieces can either be used as a single unit or as individual pieces. Trust the architect to arrange them differently each time to see them!

4. ARCKIT 240: Architectural Model Building Kit

Designed by architect Damien Murtagh, this kit can help your friend in presenting ideas and designs in a tiny prototype. It is convenient and affordable. Moreover, the architect can also create new components using modeling software and 3D printer and use them as add-ons to the kit.

5. Architect T-Shirt

Architects are not just about buildings, though they can never have enough of those. If you are looking for a cost-effective and quirky gift, this T-shirt is a cool choice. With a simple announcement saying ‘I’m an architect’ in capitals, the tee shows its humor with ‘Sorry, I think your house is ugly’ printed in tiny letters. Teens and adults alike will enjoy wearing this t-shirt. Do you know that there are some hilarious t-shirts for architects in the market? Check them out too.

6. Acacia Grove Mini Bricks on a Pallet

Imagine 90 super cute miniature bricks made from real concrete. Can you see the architect smiling with delight? Acacia Grove’s mini bricks on a pallet are one of the must-have gifts for architects and engineers. The set works as a table topper, a desk toy while working, and a modeling tool when building prototypes for new designs. And, the entire set looks too cute to ignore.

7. Bauhaus Chess Set

If your architect/ engineer is a fan of Bauhaus designs, this chess set is for them. They might look simple to the commoner’s eye, but those who are into history know the importance of Bauhaus movement in architecture. The chess pieces also show the moves they make during the game. For example, the bishop is shaped like an X, the knight as an L and so on. Just in case the architect is not as good with the game of chess but still loves a game or two when free, these shapes will serve as a reminder about how a pawn moves on the checkerboard.

8. Fascinations ICONX Notre Dame Cathedral 3D Metal Model Kit

Fascination offers an array of 3D model kits of the most iconic structures of all time. The 4” x 8” metal sheets and pop-out parts are used to build the model as per the directions provided in the manual. There is no need to solder or glue any of the pieces together. The final structure will be 3.2” x 4.6” x 2” mini Notre Dame Cathedral and will add charm to any shelf it is displayed.

9. Playhouse Doormat by Frank Lloyd Wright

An official collection item of Frank Lloyd Wright, this doormat is made using coir fiber pressed into a rubber base. The design belongs to the Avery Coonley House, Riverside, IL. 36” x 22” in size, this doormat is sure to tickle the funny bones of your architects and engineers. And what can be better than to tell people about their passion for their work? More such layout doormats in different colors are available with the brand.

10. Desktructure City Themed Porcelain Desktop Organizer Set

Architects and engineers use many stationery items in their daily work. Staying organized is essential for them to finish the projects on time and find the information they are looking for. This city themed set by Desktructure is flexible and can be arranged in various ways while keeping all the essential things at one place. Your architect will longer have to hunt for pins, clips, or eraser.

 

11. Architecture Coffee Mug

Manufactured and sold by The Unemployed Philosophers Guild, this inky blue coffee mug has not one or two but ten of blueprints of the best classic structures in the world. Wouldn’t this be a wonderful gift to an architect? Coffee and tea are a significant part of their lives, and when they can have it in a mug with such significance, it undoubtedly is going to make them even happier. You can easily find architect mugs in different colors and models.

12. Hexagonal Bulletin Boards by Hex Pin Boards

Architects and engineers who need visual inspiration will love these versatile bulletin boards. From designs to articles to pictures, they can pin anything they need to inspire them for the current project. They can make it appear professional and classy or cheerful and friendly. Isn’t it one of the must-have gifts for architects and engineers?

13. Luxfer Prism Wall Clock by Frank Lloyd Wright

We have yet another intriguing product by Frank Lloyd Wright. This prism wall clock is a part of the patented series which 45 prisms of clear crystal glass. The clock includes two great prism designs of the Luxfer Prism Company building and also consists of a unique flower design (the only one created). The clock is made from bronze and looks classy on any wall.

14. Amteker 6-in1 Multitool Pen

A multitool pen that is quite useful for architects is always the right gift item. This 6-in-1 pen includes a ballpoint pen, a touch screen stylus, a ruler, a reversible flathead screwdriver, a built-in level, and of course ink refills. The best thing about the pen is that it is compact and easy to carry and use. There’s no need to ask or search for a ruler or a screwdriver when the architect is on-site.

15. Rotring 800 Drafting Mechanical Pencil

We know that pens and pencils are an integral part of an architect’s life. This 0.7m black mechanical pencil is one of the best in the market. With a built-in eraser, twist and click retraceable mechanism, and the hexagonal structure of the body, the pencil is easy to use and doesn’t roll of smooth surfaces. Isn’t that an advantage? The shape not just makes it easy to grip but also to let it lie on flat surfaces.

16. The Hand of the Architect

 Whether it is aspiring students or dedicated architects and engineers, this hardcover moleskin book will be treasured with love. The book contains autographed drawings by 110 famous architects from all parts of the world. It was created as a tribute to the renowned Italian architect, Piero Portaluppi.

17. Alessi Crevasse Flower Vase by Zaha Hadid

We have yet another masterpiece by Zaha Hadid, created for Alessi. Though the flower vase looks ordinary to normal people, architects know the beauty of the design and model. Since it is made using a single sheet of steel, the shape is obtained by rotating and inverting the steel sheet in a specific manner.

18. 3Dconnexion Mouse

Architects work a lot on 3D designs and software. This specially created mouse allows them to make changes to CAD applications quickly. The mouse is compact and can fit on any desk. It works with the latest Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Moreover, the mouse comes with a 2-year warranty from the seller.

19. Le Corbusier Modulor Rule

The modulor rule was designed by the great man, Le Corbser himself in an attempt to add human context to the numerical metric system. A very useful tool for the architects; this lovely piece of item is one of the must-have gifts for architects and engineers.

20. Alvar Aalto Glass Vase

The mouth-blown glass vase has been modeled based on the classic collection created the renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. Manufactured and sold by littala, the glass vase has the great man’s name inscribed at the bottom. Very few things can match up to something as famous, isn’t it?

21. TaoTronics LED Architect Lamp

A sturdy, durable metal body lamp would look great on the desk of any architect or engineer. With 5 color modes, 6 levels of brightness, multi-angle adjustable head and arm, night light, USB port, memory function, and 60-minute timer, this lamp has all features an architect would want from a lamp.

22. Areaware Blockitecture Parkland

A perfect gift for landscape architects, young and old, this blockitecture set has colorful wooden pieces with rivers and trees. By moving and arranging the blocks, various landscape designs can be created. The set can be used for fun or as a model design to show to potential clients.

23. Personalized Architectural Name Print

Only an architect can see even the most overlooked designs and patterns in the various buildings around us. By gifting your engineer friend a personalized name print using different intricate designs and patterns, you can show them how much you value their skills.

24. The Future Architect’s Handbook

Start them young is a saying we are familiar with. If a child shows interest in architecture, this is one of the best gifts you can give them. Apart from being colorful, it has a lot of information that will steer them in the right direction. Let the young architect fall in love with building structures and get going!

25. LA Modern Architecture- Coffee Table Hardcover Book

If a book can provide inspiration and also add to the beauty of the place, wouldn’t it be a double benefit? This lovely hardcover has wonderful pictures of modern architectural buildings in L.A (Los Angeles) photographed by Tim Street-Porter. The collection includes some famous and marvelous buildings by the known architects.

26. RocketBook EverLast Smart Notebook- Reusable

Yes, you read that right. This eco-friendly smart notebook is reusable. With 36 dotted grid pages (yay, again!), this notebook can be used, wiped clean, and used again. The data can be saved to the cloud using the RocketBook app. Any Pilot Frixion pen can be used to write on the pages. Can we deny that this notebook (& pen) should undoubtedly be on the list of must-have gifts for architects and engineers?

27. Walter Gropius Wine Glasses

Before you wonder what’s so special about a wine glass, take a look at its shape. The curves, angles, and edges are sure to delight an architect. They would love to own the collection of these lovely wine glasses and flaunt their style.

28. FlashForge 3D Desktop Printer

Architects love to 3D representations of their designs and models. This desktop 3D printer is compact and can give a proper shape and form to their ideas. The printer comes with an instruction manual that makes it easy to use whenever required.

29. Architecture and Design Course by Frank Gehry

This one is a unique gift if you want to surprise your architect with something different. MasterClass, the educational platform, has courses in architecture and design by none other than Frank Gehry. Simply check out the website and choose ‘give as a gift’ option.

30. Fia Carafe

This delicate piece of art is useful and beautiful. A mouth-blown crystal glass, this carafe can be used as a flower vase, or to store water, juice, wine, etc. The specialty is that it comes with a smooth round ball that sits neatly within the bottom niche. Just remove and use it as a lid when required. Simple, elegant, and stunning, right!

 

31. Obsessive Chef Bamboo Cutting Boards

Architecture and precision go hand in hand. Architects calculate even the minutest of the details for exact measurements. For those architects who follow the same rule in cooking, these bamboo cutting boards are going to be one of the must-have gifts for architects and engineers. With measurements marked on it, the cutting board makes chopping vegetables a lot more fun.

32. Personalized Architect Pen Set

If you are looking for a classic gift that can be personalized, this pen set is the best choice. The pair of pens in wooden casing comes in a wooden box with the name(s) of the architect engraved on them. One pen is a ballpoint pen, and the other is a roller ballpen. The names and logos are engraved using 100W laser engraver.

33. MoMA Perpetual Calendar

Museum of Modern Art store has come up with this stylish presentation of date for each day. Whether your architect likes it on the office desk or at home, you can be sure that it’ll bring a smile on their face each time they look at it.

34. Magazine Subscription for Architectural Record

You cannot ignore the power of books and information, especially for an architect or an engineer. They need to stay up to date about the latest news, trends, models, and designs. Architectural Records is one of the best magazines that can provide them with the data. So, why not get them a year-long subscription as a gift?

35. Project Watch Terra

Landscape and structural architects will simply love this fabulous watch. While the simple and minimalist design makes it appear elegant and professional, the layered topographical maps in the dial will cheer the architect each time they look at it. The watch is suitable for various age groups and will look at each of them.

36. H Potter Glass Terrarium Planter

H Potter is famous for creating some of the most attractive glass terrarium planters in the market. Each model has been designed to resemble real greenhouses belonging to different eras. Right from the Victorian era to the modern designs, you can pick a planter that your architect would love. Whether they are landscape architects or structural architects, this glass terrarium planter will add some greenery to their place.

37. Bird Feeder

This modern bird feeder will be a perfect addition to an architect’s home or office. The ordinary-looking uninspiring bird feeders can never compete with this intricate model. While being extremely easy for the birds to sit and eat, this bird feeder can add charm and allure when hung from the balcony of the house.

38. Blueprint Bow Tie

How can an architect flaunt their profession without making any explicit mentions about it? Here is the answer. If your architect likes things with minimum fuss but takes pride in the work he does, this blueprint bow tie is a perfect gift. It will make heads turn and appreciate the subtle indication of his profession while maintaining a classy look.

39. Blueprint Crumbled Paperweight

We must admit that this is a highly creative gift you can give an architect or an engineer. Just imagine a paperweight that looks like a crumbled blueprint. Aren’t you smiling already thinking how much your architect would love it? Get them a piece of this wonderfully innovative paperweight and watch with satisfaction as they use it to hold other actual blueprints in place. Blueprint paperweight is genuinely one of the must-have gifts for architects and engineers.

 

40. Alessi Citrus Juicer

If your architectural friend loves fresh juices, here is something to surprise them with. Another of the Alessi products, this citrus juicer is one of the coolest countertop pieces you’ll find in the market. With a sleek balloon and three legs, this juicer has sharp angles and precise proportions, an architect will immediately appreciate. It might look like a metal spider, but it is an efficient juicer and will appeal to the architectural taste.

41. Danish Designer Figurines

Architects create the wooden figurines from Denmark’s ArchitectMade for architects. The idea behind the figurines is to create products that will last for generations and inspire each of them. Many famous designers have worked on their iconic pieces. Gifting something as wonderful and significant will surely make your architect very happy.

42. An Engineer’s Bag

Architects and engineers need to travel a lot within the city and outside the city. They have to carry their notes, stationery, papers, and various other materials required when checking the construction sites. This messenger bag has been designed specifically for engineers and architects. It has many compartments for them to snugly fit their tools of the trade and carry them along wherever they go.

43. Norm Tumbler Alarm Clock

Designed by Jonas Bjerre Poulsen and Kasper Rønn, two famous Danish architects, this tumbler alarm clock is a true piece of art. While Jonas has worked on the shape and tactility, Kasper deals with inventions and technology. Together, they created this alarm clock with a rounded base that doesn’t tilt. It doesn’t have any button to turn off the alarm either. Simply turn it upside down, and the alarm ringing will end. Available in matte black and white, Norm Tumbler Alarm Clock will become a favorite of any architect.

 

44. Philips Hue Smart LED Lights

Architects know the importance of lighting. Proper lighting can enhance the intricacies of the structure and add to the overall appeal. An architect’s home and office should reflect their profession and enchant guests. With Philips Hue smart LED lights, architects can customize color themes and synchronize them with games, movies, or music to create a perfect ambience. Gift your architects a set of these lovely smart LED lights and watch them transform their place.

45. Blueprint Carrying Tube Made of Leather

Blueprints are crucial for any architect and engineer. Instead of using plastic or ugly-looking tubes to carry relevant documents, gift your architect this sturdy leather tube. It has a protective suede lining to keep the documents safe from external weather conditions. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy for a person of any size to carry it without much effort. Gift your engineer a highly useful item that also looks good. This leather blueprint carrying tube is on the list of the must-have gifts for architects and engineers.

46. DCI Math Clock

Don’t let this clock scare you. Architects and engineers who spend long hours working on complex calculations will absolutely love this wall clock. With some interesting ways to show time, the square roots, decimals, multiplications are going to bring a good laugh each time your architect glances at the clock. Suitable for offices and home alike, this black dial clock with white numbers reminds us of the classroom blackboard, doesn’t it? Who knew a simple (okay, maybe not as simple) clock could bring forth so many wonderful memories and laughs? That too, on a daily basis! 

47. Michael Graves Architect Color Pencil Set

Drawing is not just something architects have to do. It is an art form that brings alive the jumbled ideas in mind and presents them on the paper. Adding colors to the drawing will only enhance its effect. This lovely collection of color pencils will make a beautiful gift to your architect who spends a lot of time drawing various models and designs and creating prototypes based on them. And if the architect is a fan of old-school paper and pencil drawing rather than using technology, you cannot go wrong with this gift.

48. Microsoft Surface Studio

We can’t ignore the allure of technology either, can we? Let us see what is the latest invention by Microsoft can do. Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is something every creator wants to own. And for an architect, this would be a fantastic gift to receive. Microsoft Surface Studio can be used in two ways- the desktop mode allows them to type and enter data, and the tablet mode allows them to draw, create model, or work on their latest ideas. If you are not spending on a budget, this could be one of the best gifts to give your architect.

49. Leica Laser Distance Measure for Architects

Measuring spaces and distances are something architects do regularly when on-site. While they would have mastered the art of assessing the approximate length by the eye, knowing the exact space is essential. But tape measures can make the job clumsy and annoying. And, the tape tends to tear and break over time. Leica Laser Distance Measure is a thoughtful gift to give to your architect. The device is Bluetooth compatible, which makes it easy to share and save the measurements on a smartphone or a tablet. Whether you want to gift a young and budding architect or an established one, this laser distance measure will be a beneficial gift to choose.

50. Miniature Chairs

Aren’t these the cutest things you’ve seen on the internet today? We adore these miniatures of some of the most iconic and famous mid-century designs. We mean, just look at these tiny chairs (can you tell we are gushing over them?). Who wouldn’t want to own these miniatures which display their love for art and the era? You don’t even have to wonder if your architect friend will love these. You already know they do. Why wait then? Order a set of these miniatures as a gift and guess where the architect would proudly display them. Would it be on the desk, shelf, or in one of the 3D models at the office! 

51. DJI Mavic Mini Portable Drone

Drones have become a part of an engineer’s life. Whether we are talking about landscape architects or structural architects, those who work on medium to large projects will find a million uses of owing a drone. It saves time and allows them to get an overview of the place whenever needed. This mini portable drone easily fits in the palm. It has a 12MP camera and can take Quad HD videos. The flight time is 30 minutes of this compact little device. From site analysis to rough topography mapping and taking pictures of the finished project, the drone will very soon become your architect’s best friend.

We might have reached the end of our list, but let us assure you that there are many more exciting, intriguing, and cute gifts you can find for your architect friend. From triangle ruler cufflinks to wobbling chess sets, from the robotic arm to wooden block puzzles, from a diamond whiskey glass to art prints and a fabulous collection of books on architecture, the list might as well be endless.

Take time to understand your architect’s tastes and pick a gift or two you feel would be the best one ever. Why give a gift for the sake of it when you can find something more personal and close to their hearts in the list of 51 must-have gifts for architects and engineers? It’s time to show how much you care!