Must-Have Holiday Gifts for Architecture Students

Nov 27

The holiday season is here, and if you’re shopping for an architecture student, you know they can be tricky to buy for. They’re constantly juggling deadlines, exploring new tools, and obsessing over design details. Whether it’s for the studio, the classroom, or some much-needed downtime, here are my must-get holiday gifts for architecture students:

1. Quality Drafting Tools

Gift Idea: A high-quality mechanical pencil like ALVIN DM05 Draft/Matic® Mechanical Pencil https://amzn.to/4g3O5f0 Pair this with a sleek pencil case from Bellroy. https://amzn.to/3OwemHb
Why They’ll Love It: Drafting tools are essential, and having a dependable set makes precision work easier. Look for brands like Staedtler https://amzn.to/3CNq7Gw for professional-grade options.

2. A Durable Sketchbook

Gift Idea: A hardcover sketchbook, such as Moleskine https://amzn.to/4fOnBP4 or Leuchtturm1917 https://amzn.to/415fZ5W
Why They’ll Love It: Every architecture student needs a reliable place to capture ideas, whether it’s a quick sketch or detailed plans. Choose one with think bleed and a dotted grid. https://amzn.to/4hrgxYV

3. A Portable LED Desk Lamp

Gift Idea: A minimal sleek desk lamp with adjustable brightness. https://amzn.to/4i6hyXy
Why They’ll Love It: Late nights in the studio or at home require good lighting. A compact, modern lamp ensures they can work anywhere without straining their eyes.

4. High-Performance Laptop Accessories

Gift Idea: A labtop cooling pad! https://amzn.to/3CJzkiZ
Why They’ll Love It: Architecture students spend countless hours working on 3D models and rendering, so tech accessories that improve their setup can save time and minimize frustration—especially when our computers are overheating and we’re all just hoping they don’t crash. (We’ve all been there!)

5. Modeling Tools and Materials

Gift Idea: Bondic Plastic Welding Kit https://amzn.to/3ZnJoXX
Why They’ll Love It: Model-making is a critical part of architecture school. Tools that improve their process will be much appreciated. I have used the Bondic Plastic Welding Kit in the past and it is a game changer when trying to quickly adhere small pieces together!

6. Noise-Canceling Headphones

Gift Idea: Wireless noise-canceling headphones like Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds. https://amzn.to/3B3h43N
Why They’ll Love It: Blocking out distractions helps students focus during intense study or work sessions.

7. Architecture Books

Gift Idea: Books like 101 Things I Learned in Architecture School by Matthew Frederick https://amzn.to/3CNdvzj or Thinking Architecture by Peter Zumthor. https://amzn.to/4g69lRh
Gift Idea: Architect and Entrepreneur: A Field Guide to Building, Branding, and Marketing Your Startup Design Business https://amzn.to/4eNLkxp
Gift Idea: The Architecture of Happiness by Alain De Botton. https://amzn.to/41d3iGe
Why They’ll Love It: These books offer inspiration and practical insights, making them a great resource for students.

8. Coffee Gadgets

Gift Idea: Hydro Flask All Around Stainless Steel Tumbler with Lid and Double-Wall Vacuum Insulation. https://amzn.to/412mzdH
Why They’ll Love It: Coffee fuels long studio hours. A sleek gadget ensures they’re always caffeinated in style.

9. A Comfortable Backpack

Gift Idea: A durable, ergonomic backpack with compartments for laptops, sketchbooks, and supplies. I recommend the Lululemon Every day Backpack 2.0 23L (001)—I’ve been using one for two years, and it’s held up incredibly well while keeping everything organized and accessible. https://amzn.to/3CGSvKk
Why They’ll Love It: An architecture student’s bag needs to hold a lot and be comfortable for long commutes.

11. In the field

Gift Idea: BOSCH GLM100-23 100 Ft Blaze Laser Distance Measure https://amzn.to/3VaEfQA
Why They’ll Love It: Saves so much time when on site!

11. Desk Organizer

Gift Idea: A minimalist desk organizer. https://amzn.to/4g5s8MF
Why They’ll Love It: Keeping their workspace tidy allows them to focus better on their projects.

12. Gift Cards

Gift Idea: Gift cards to Amazon! https://amzn.to/417rFp4
Why They’ll Love It: Let them choose exactly what they need or treat themselves during a busy semester.

Anthony Skokal