We Want to Buy Everything on Architect Frederick Tang’s Go-To Gift List

From an achingly cool fanny pack to an indispensable Sichuan chili sauce, these ideas simply don’t miss.
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It’s no surprise that architect Frederick Tang—founder of the eponymous architecture and interior design firm based in Brooklyn and known for creating crisp, elevated spaces—is a man of refined taste. His holiday gift suggestions embody his sensibilities for form, materiality, and functionality. The challenge will be not keeping all of these purchases for ourselves.

Looking for something else? Check out the rest of our holiday gift guides here.

Frederick Tang, director of design and principal architect at Frederick Tang Architecture.

Frederick Tang, director of design and principal architect at Frederick Tang Architecture.

"One of the best wedding presents we received was a heavy Coyuchi blanket. They make simple bedding out of organic materials. This small knit blanket has become my go-to present for any family with a new baby."

"You can never have enough wooden spoons, and these are the prettiest. Perfect as a stocking stuffer or a Secret Santa present, they’re so thoughtfully designed, they even have a special version for left-handed people!"

Food52 Five Two Wooden Spoons
Food52 Five Two Wooden Spoons
Made by us, made with you.  When we decided to give classic wooden spoons the Five Two treatment, we asked thousands of you: What do you love about your favorite spoon? You told us about how it does everything, lasts for generations, and has a place in your most treasured kitchen memories.

"I got my first fanny pack (as an adult) a couple of years ago, and even though they’re everywhere these days, I am fully converted. I love this Raf Simons collaboration with Eastpak."

Raf Simons Black Eastpak Edition Loop Waist Bag
Raf Simons Black Eastpak Edition Loop Waist Bag
Canvas pouch in black. Webbing carry handle at top. Adjustable padded belt-style strap. Zippered pocket and textile logo patch at face. Logo patch at side. Zip closure at main compartment. Zippered pocket at interior. Fully lined. Black and white hardware. Approx.

"I'm the opposite of a coffee snob; I’ll drink pretty much anything as long as it’s hot, convenient, and caffeinated. For sheer simplicity, you can’t beat a solid French press. The proportions of this one are so cute—low and chubby."

Yama French Press
Yama French Press
Press for success and enjoy a rich, full-bodied brew with this classic 6-cup French Press.

"Everyone I know discovered this spicy, sweet, crunchy condiment at the same time, and everyone I know is equally obsessed. I go through a jar a month now, and it’s become a pantry essential. It’s perfect for all types of Asian food and even great on quesadillas."

Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp Sauce, 7.41 Fl Oz
Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp Sauce, 7.41 Fl Oz
Add a spicy twist to your meals with the Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp Sauce. Commonly served in Sichuan cold sauces, this classic ingredient is a flavor-rich condiment that has a high ratio of flakes to oil.

"This lightweight folding stool is tiny but just enough for a perch in the park, or to set a drink on at the beach. For something so utilitarian, its design is surprisingly sophisticated with the gold frame and dark blue canvas."

A&F Adirondack Micro Chair - Dark Blue
A&F Adirondack Micro Chair - Dark Blue
Lightweight, compact, and portable, this sporty and durable folding chair will be the perfect companion to all your outdoor adventures.  The Adirondack Micro Chair has a lightweight aluminum frame weighing approximately 500 grams—the gold version weighs about the same as a magazine! Pack this...

"For the longest time I resisted getting a leather jacket despite always secretly wanting one. When I finally did, it instantly became a part of me. Channel your inner Village Person with a classic motorcycle jacket."

Allsaints Milo Leather Biker Jacket
Allsaints Milo Leather Biker Jacket
The Milo Biker. Made from soft lamb leather. With biker jacket details. A ticket pocket. And hem loops. Just add the motorbike.
Ian Zunt
Ian Zunt is the one behind all of Dwell's socials. Along with the work he does to get us on your phone screen, he also writes on trends and design culture.

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