Gift Ideas for Fans of Portuguese Modern Architecture

Finding the perfect holiday gift for an architecture lover can be a pleasure in itself— The appreciation of the clean lines, craftsmanship, and visionary ideas behind Portuguese modern and contemporary architecture. Whether they admire Álvaro Siza’s poetic minimalism, the international masters shaping Portugal today, or timeless Nordic design icons, this guide brings together thoughtful objects and experiences that celebrate great architecture.

Here are seven curated holiday presents for any design and architecture enthusiast, handpicked by Ben.

1. Book: “Álvaro Siza: Design Process” – A Deep Dive Into a Siza Villa at Bom Sucesso Resort

For anyone fascinated by how ideas become form, Álvaro Siza: Design Process offers an intimate walk through Siza’s creative universe.

Featuring drawings, sketches, and studies—including material from the Bom Sucesso Resort , Obidos —the book reveals how Portugal’s most celebrated architect transforms early lines into poetic architectural works.

15 Euro

2. Book: 50 Years of Portuguese Architecture in Democracy

“O que faz falta – 50 Years of Portuguese Architecture in Democracy” looks at how architecture evolved in the 51 years since 25 April 1974. It highlights 50 important works (49 built + 1 unbuilt) that helped shape modern Portugal.

It’s a great way to understand the architectural movements of the last decades and how they connect to today’s projects.

50 Euro.

3. Book Norman Foster – For Fans of Contemporary Global Architecture

Norman Foster—one of the most influential architects alive—is entering Portugal’s architectural landscape with his first building planned for Cascais.

This book provides a comprehensive look at his visionary projects around the globe. Minimal, technological, and optimistic in spirit, Foster’s work resonates strongly with lovers of contemporary architecture.

350 Euro

4. Pen by Eduardo Souto de Moura

Designed by the renowned Portuguese architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, this pen is a perfect expression of his architectural philosophy — minimalist, balanced, and refined. ✍️✨

With its clean lines and precise proportions, the pen reflects the calm, understated elegance found throughout Souto de Moura’s work. Made from AISI 316L stainless steel, it feels solid yet effortless in the hand.

22 Euro

5. Álvaro Siza Glass Vase – A Piece of Portuguese Design Culture

Designed for Casa da Arquitectura, this hand-blown glass vase distills Siza’s signature elegance into a sculptural everyday object.

Available in three sizes, it’s a thoughtful and understated gift that embodies the same sense of proportion and quiet beauty found in his architectural work.

110 Euro

6. CRAG – Blanket in Pure Wool, Handwoven in Portugal

The CRAG blanket by Eduardo Aires blends tradition with contemporary design. Handwoven in Portugal from pure wool, its multicolour pattern reinterprets Serra da Estrela’s historic loom stitches in a bold, graphic way.

Aires—renowned for the visual identity of the City of Porto and Bolhão Market—brings clarity and modern structure to this refined textile.

A timeless design piece rooted in Portuguese craftsmanship.

240 Euro

7. “BULB” Cone Glass Pendant by MOR Design

The BULB Cone Ceiling Lamp blends craftsmanship, glasswork, and minimalist geometry.

A customizable cable allows perfect adaptation to any interior—ideal for reading corners, dining spaces, or modern entryways. A stylish and functional object that brings warm, architectural light into the home.

190 Euro

8. Scandinavian Vintage Lighting – A Gift for Design Collectors

For those who appreciate Nordic simplicity, vintage Scandinavian lamps make a standout present.

From clean geometric pendants to warm wood-and-metal classics, these pieces fit naturally into modern Portuguese villas or contemporary apartments. Unique finds and fully restored originals can be sourced via curated vintage shops.

100+ Euro

9. A Short Architecture Trip to Porto 

A short architecture trip to Porto is perfect for anyone who loves contemporary Portuguese design.

Start with Casa da Música, Rem Koolhaas’s iconic sculptural concert hall, a masterpiece of bold geometry and urban presence. Try to get tickets for a concert here.

Then visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, designed by Álvaro Siza, where calm proportions and light-filled galleries define the experience.

And if there’s still time, head to Casa da Arquitectura in Matosinhos—Portugal’s most important archive of architectural culture, exhibitions, and design history.

It’s a compact, curated journey through the very best of contemporary Portuguese architecture—an unforgettable gift for curious minds.