LEGO Ideas 21359: Italian Coastal Village
Set Number: 21359 | 1
Fan Designer Interview: Alex Sahli
Alex Sahli, known online as Galaxy333, is a computer science student based in California. Alex is a talented fan designer whose four previous original submissions garnered 10,000 fan votes and continue to gain support. This marks his first submission that has become an official LEGO set. Beyond LEGO building, Alex is passionate about photography, football, and travel.
Alex shares his lifelong love for LEGO, starting with his first set as a child. He describes LEGO building as a significant creative outlet that brings ideas to life and sparked his interest in STEM, architecture, and more. He values the LEGO fan community and the ability for fans to influence creations through the LEGO Ideas platform.
His inspiration for this set comes from his travels in Italy, particularly the Cinque Terre region and the Amalfi Coast, known for their stunning natural landscapes and classic architecture. He used numerous reference images and experimented with color palettes to capture the essence of these locations. He highlights the dynamic nature of the model, with its angled baseplate, modular floors for interior viewing, and textured details on the stone and tiled roofs.
Alex expresses his excitement about reaching 10,000 supporters, calling it a dream come true and thanking everyone who voted.
The Timeless Allure of the Italian Coastline
The Italian coastline offers a dreamscape for a relaxing holiday. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas, creating a sensory feast. Historic houses cascade down cliffs amidst vineyards and orchards, bathed in bright sunlight, offering spectacular views of the azure sea. The warm breeze carries scents of citrus, jasmine, freshly baked pastries, and the unique flavors of local seafood restaurants. Centuries-old villages pulse with life, featuring quaint cobblestone streets leading to artisan shops filled with handmade goods and traditional eateries serving recipes passed down through generations. This is the heart of Italian tradition.
A Playground for Adventure and Relaxation
Traveling through this beautiful region, one can discover Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, comprising five interconnected villages. While tourists and photographers flock to admire its panoramic views and world-renowned architecture, outdoor enthusiasts can spend their days on the water via boat or kayak, hike scenic trails, or explore historical landmarks. In local piazzas, visitors can join the lively chatter of locals, starting the day with a revitalizing cappuccino and a breakfast focaccia, or find their favorite fresh gelato flavor to enjoy in the sun. This coastline masterfully blends active pursuits with serene environments, offering a refreshing escape where the simplest joys of life take center stage.
LEGO Ideas Design Team's Thoughts
The LEGO Ideas team found it wonderful to collaborate with Alex and his submission. They aimed to capture the coastal atmosphere, suggesting the model's tiered structure to represent the seaside elevation and using external staircases for dynamism. The modular floors allow for easy interior viewing, and the angled baseplate adds to the community's cozy feel, presenting an interesting design challenge.
Inspiration was drawn directly from the region, reflecting experiences in Cinque Terre and the Italian lifestyle. The set is rich in realistic details, including rocky outcrops, archways, shutters, and roof textures, along with antennas and chimneys. Interior details are as authentic as possible, featuring accessories like kitchens, balconies, bathrooms, and marble sinks. The set also includes two decorative food elements: Trofie al Pesto, a Ligurian culinary essential, and a slice of Focaccia, perfect for enjoying any time of day.
The ten minifigures represent a variety of characters one might encounter in the area, including Alex himself visiting the location. The team hopes everyone enjoys this scenic spot.
Discover More LEGO Ideas
The LEGO Ideas platform empowers fans to share their creations and gather support.
Explore other successful LEGO Ideas projects:
- Amelia Earhart Steamboat (Set 21324)
- Vending Machine (Set 21325)
- The Botanical Garden (Set 21353)
Visit ideas.LEGO.com to learn more.
