NBM News

2025 Holiday Gift Guide

November 13, 2025

This season, the National Building Museum Shop has something for everyone on your list, from the budding builder to the design devotee. Our Holiday Gift Guide celebrates unique and thoughtful gifts that reflect the spirit of the world we design and build.

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For the Architecture Buff

Celebrate their love of architecture with gifts that capture the beauty of the built world. From classic texts and collectible prints to architectural fashion statements, these pieces pay homage to form, structure, and style.

Items pictured: Study of Skyscrapers Wood Wall Art; Architectural Elements Embroidered Sweatshirt; Antoine Predock Limited-Edition Print; A Field Guide to American Houses: The Definitive Guide to Identifying and Understanding America’s Domestic Architecture; Vincent Scully: Architecture, Urbanism, and a Life in Search of Community; “Capital Style” Architecture Limited Edition Print; Washington, D.C. City Map Tie

For the Bookworm

For readers who love cities, sustainability, and the art of place-making, the Shop’s selection spans from classic architectural theory to modern urbanism. Whether they’re dreaming up better neighborhoods or simply admiring the skyline, these titles are sure to inspire.

Items pictured: Walkable City Rules: 101 Steps to Making Better Places; Good Energy: Renewable Power and the Design of Everyday Life; Designing Community: Bonstra|Haresign ARCHITECTS; Bridges as Structural Art; Changing Places: The Science and Art of New Urban Planning; Atlas of Brutalist Architecture

For the Young Builder & Designer

Fuel creativity with gifts that invite kids to build, imagine, and play. From construction-themed books and toys to hands-on design kits, these finds turn curiosity into creation, perfect for the next generation of architects and makers.

Items pictured: Nuts & Bolts; Notre-Dame Paint By Number Kit; Little Excavator; Jonathan Adler Helsinki Classic Bandana Game; Komatsu Excavator Plush Toy; National Building Museum Youth T-Shirt; What We’ll Build: Plans For Our Future Together; LEGO® DUPLO® Construction Site

For the D.C. Local

Celebrate hometown pride with gifts inspired by the nation’s capital. From skyline boards to Metro clocks and neighborhood prints, each piece captures the character and charm of Washington, D.C.

Items pictured: Hi from DC Boxed Note Cards; Street Signs of Washington, D.C. Apron; Metro Station Clock; Washington, D.C. Neighborhoods Glasses Set; Washington, D.C. Rivers Blanket; District of Columbia Skyline Bar Board; Washington, D.C. Neighborhoods Canvas Tote Bag; Washington, D.C. Coaster Set

For the Party Host

For the entertainer with an eye for design, these serving ware and tabletop pieces blend style and substance. Thoughtful materials and modern forms turn every gathering into an elevated experience that will have everyone talking about your party.

Items pictured: Robie House Sandstone Coasters; Nested Squares Napkins; Wooden Wine Vessel; Atomic Design Appetizer Plate; Set of 4 Hoffman Rug Dessert Plates; Fresco Fruit Bowl; Ceramic Champagne Cooler; Waterlilies Swedish Dish Towels

For the Green Thumb

Bring beauty to every surface with planters, vases, and garden inspiration rooted in good design. Whether nurturing houseplants or outdoor spaces, these picks merge form and function for those who like to grow with style.

Items pictured: Living Roofs; Terrazza Planter – Small; Terrazza Planter – Large; Garden Beetle Watering Can; Into Green: Everyday Ways to Find Yourself in Nature; Avocado Vase; Acorn Vase; Mini Bucket

For the White Elephant Gift Giver

Fun, clever, and always conversation-starting, these gifts strike the right balance between playful and practical. Ideal for office exchanges or holiday gatherings, each item brings a touch of design-minded humor at the perfect price.

Items pictured: Alan Karchmer: The Architects’ Photographer 300 Piece Puzzle; Street Signs of Washington, D.C. Potholder; D.C. Manhole Covers Jar Opener; Rule of Three Strategy Game; DC LOVE Sponge Cloth Set of 3; National Building Museum Mug