Gingerbread modern

NEED inspiration when it comes to shopping for party hosts, finicky family members or the friend who has everything? The Scout has some ideas for you, starting with a traditional item with a contemporary twist. The gingerbread house that decorates buffets this time of year has been given a serious midcentury makeover by the Red Envelope catalog. Its Modern Gingerbread House is a dead ringer for a Palm Springs Eichler or Alexander ranch complete with a butterfly roof, sugar-icing clerestory windows and a candy rock garden (though that front door is a tad underwhelming). The 18-inch-wide, fully edible edifice is $78; for $10 more, you can add a name or some short personal message. (877) 733-3683, www.redenvelope.com.