Farnsworth House

photo by: Mike Crews

November 30, 2017

5 Gifts for the Modernist Fan in Your Life

  • By: Kirsten Hower

Not everyone loves Modernist architecture, but those who do love it tend to be particularly avid fans of the movement’s emphasis on form over ornament. From books to mugs, and even cell phone cases, there are plenty of ways to share your love for Modernism.

With the holidays right around the corner, we compiled a list of our five favorite gifts suited for the Modernism fan in your life …

Glass House Snow Globe

You may not be able to live in Philip Johnson’s Glass House—a National Trust Historic Site—but you can enjoy it year-round with this stocking stuffer. Plus, the snow makes it a particularly festive gift.

Farnsworth House Building Bricks

Like many architecture fans, we love using building bricks to build and rebuild our favorite buildings. One of our favorite structures to build is Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House, a National Trust Historic Site. Whether you’re looking to spend the big bucks on the discontinued LEGO Architecture set or opt for the more affordable Micro-Brickland option, you won’t want to pass up the chance to bring this Modernist gem into your house.

If you don’t like the plastic brick look, but you want a model of the Farnsworth to grace your home, we suggest the 3Doodler Create Farnsworth House.

Frank Lloyd Wright Bradley House Mug

If Frank Lloyd Wright is your cup of tea, you’ll love this mug. Enjoy the window designs from the B. Harley Bradley House—where Wright’s Prairie Style began—with your morning cup of tea or coffee.

Is there a Wright lover in your life? Make sure to check out five more of our favorite Wright-inspired gifts.

Midcentury Modern Jigsaw Puzzle

Need something to do on those rainy Sundays when you can’t go visit Modernist masterpieces in person? This Mid-Mod jigsaw is perfect for just such an occasion. Comprised of 1,000 pieces, it is sure to keep you busy.

T.S. Shure ArchiQuest Modern & Post-Modern Architecture Wooden Building Blocks

This gift is perfect for anyone who isn’t a LEGO fan, but still wants to build their favorite Modernist structures (or create their own). The ArchiQuest kit includes 126 colorful blocks as well as a booklet with building plans, history, and fun facts. It’s also the perfect recipe for learning through play for the kids in your life.

Did we miss your favorite book, movie, or household object on Modernist architecture? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

By purchasing any of these products using the links on this page, you'll be supporting the National Trust. Check out other ways you can support preservation as you shop, travel, and play.

Kirsten Hower

Kirsten Hower is a former member of the National Trust’s social media team. When she’s not helping save places, you’ll find her reading, wandering around art museums, or hiking along the Potomac River with her dog.

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