1218 Arch St., 215/569-3188,
www.aiabookstore.com [1]
HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.,
Fri.–Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m.
At this store operated by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), architecture and design buffs will find endless items of interest, though the varied selection spread over two floors offers the layperson plenty to enjoy as well. The selection of specialty books (many ideal for a coffee table) covers a wide range of home and design topics along with collecting, tasting, urban studies, politics, and more.
Plenty of quirky gifts are available, including puzzles, ties patterned with maps, watches shaped like postage stamps, screen-printed note cards, and funny baby clothes.
This is the store where you can find a gift for that person that already has everything—particularly if that person has a penchant for art or design. A unique collection of greeting cards is available for anti-Hallmark types.
Links:
[1] http://www.aiabookstore.com