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Architect Peter Pennoyer Reveals His Father’s Day Gift List

The cerebral talent behind stunning Manhattan townhouses and distinguished country retreats as well as the Moynihan Train Hall clock and refresh of Guild Hall selects a mix of items perfect for garden enthusiasts and literarians

By Jill Sieracki
Collage of a multi-tool, book, man in suit, painting, flowers in vase, clock, and frying pan.

With offices in New York, Miami, and Palm Beach, Peter Pennoyer Architects shapes majestic residences all along the eastern seaboard that marry a refined sense of tradition with considered doses of contemporary panache. The firm’s output demonstrates a scholarly reverence for architecture—a talent that stems from the firm’s eponymous principal who has authored five books on architectural history, serves as a adjunct professor at New York University, and earned a number of awards for historical preservation.

So when it comes to spotlighting pieces ideal for Father’s Day gifting, it comes as no surprise that Pennoyer’s selections stray far from basic, instead highlighting cookware, literary volumes, and thoughtful sentiments that appeal to both the heart and mind.

Man in glasses and suit with arms crossed, standing in an office environment with books and framed artwork in the background
Peter Pennoyer. Photo: Jay Ackerman
Two non-stick frying pans with metal handles on a marble countertop.
SCANPAN® NordIQa Nonstick Fry Pan Set. Photo: Courtesy of Williams Sonoma

Danish Cookware

“As an avid cook, I rely on non-stick pans to accomplish a perfect sear, sauté, or accompanying sauce. This Danish brand is well-designed, sleek, and not overly fussy.”

Cover of "Bartleby, the Scrivener" by Herman Melville with intricate green and white geometric pattern.
Bartleby, the Scrivener, by Herman Melville. Photo: Courtesy of Thornwillow Press
Historic stereograph of Trinity Church, Wall Street from 1865, showcasing the church and surrounding architecture.
Bartleby, the Scrivener, by Herman Melville. Photo: Courtesy of Thornwillow Press

Thornwillow Dispatch

“Each month, ongoing subscribers receive a new letterpress-printed, limited edition publication from Thornwillow Press, and a curated collection of engraved and letterpress-printed keepsakes. Based out of Newburgh, New York, Thornwillow titles are wonderful, including most recently Melville’s Bartleby the Scrivener.”

Vibrant floral arrangement with purple, pink, and orange flowers in a white vase on a wooden table against a textured wall.
Frances Palmer Pottery. Photo: Courtesy of Frances Palmer Pottery

Frances Palmer Pottery

“Frances Palmer, the extraordinarily talented ceramicist, makes beautiful vases. This model appeals to me for its architectural form.”

Vintage square green clock on a wooden shelf with soft lighting and shadow patterns on the wall in the background.
Båge & Söner Alarm Clock. Photo: Courtesy of Båge & Söner Alarm Clock

Båge & Söner Alarm Clock

“This classic clock from Stockholm combines a case in metal, leather, and enamel that recalls the fitted interior of a vintage automobile.”

Renaissance painting of a woman in red holding a child against a landscape background with buildings and distant mountains
The New Criterion. Photo: Courtesy of The New Criterion

The New Criterion

“A subscription I plan to gift to my son-in-law, a new father! This leading review of the arts and intellectual life is a staple of my library.”

Curved handheld saw with black handle and matching sheath, designed for cutting through wood or branches.
Silky Zubat Professional Arborist Edition Saw. Photo: Courtesy of amleo

Arborist Saw

“I love pruning trees on our land in Millbrook. This Japanese saw is elegant and efficient with its curved, skip-tooth blade that makes clean cuts simple.”

Multitool with various tools extended including pliers, knife, and screwdrivers on a white background.
Wave Plus Multi-Tool. Photo: Courtesy of Leatherman

Leatherman Multi-Tool

“Every car, house, and apartment should have a multi-tool at hand. For a rare task, I need to pull tools from my workshop, but more often than not, most can be handled with a Leatherman.”

Group of five people smiling in front of a mobile library truck with open shelves filled with books.
House of SpeakEasy NYC. Photo: Courtesy of House of SpeakEasy NYC

Charitable Donation

“An honorary donation to a worthwhile organization can be a special gift. The House of SpeakEasy is top of my list. This organization supports reading, writing, and public participation in literary culture.”