LEGO continually releases a multitude of new sets each month, with an increasing number catering to adult enthusiasts. The LEGO Star Wars theme is a prime example, featuring some of the most popular options that are large-scale 18+ builds. For instance, the new N1 Starfighter set, priced at £250, is a tribute to The Mandalorian, rather than just a play set for children.
One of the major differences between adult LEGO sets and those aimed at kids is the detail. It requires a significant amount of creativity to recreate something seen in a movie or TV show using only plastic bricks and make it visually appealing. IGN had the opportunity to speak with LEGO Star Wars designer César Soares about the creative process behind these builds. While Soares has primarily worked on Star Wars, he also highlighted some of the Ideas sets he has contributed to over the years.
“Since the beginning, I have been part of the LEGO Star Wars team, but I have also worked on some LEGO Ideas sets like the Tree House, Seinfeld, and The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Soares has a background in creating his own MOCs (My Own Creations) before joining LEGO, so it is not surprising to see his influence on a few Ideas sets. The LEGO Ideas line consists of builds originally submitted by the community and includes some of the most popular adult sets available today.
The LEGO Ideas Tree House is a beloved build that was initially released in 2019. Unlike many other sets, it is not tied to any franchise or movie and stands out for its incredible design. The set was retired in November 2024, but it can still be found at a premium from various third-party sellers online.
The LEGO Ideas Seinfeld set is one of the most unique TV-to-brick creations from the Ideas line. It focuses on recreating Jerry’s apartment set alongside minifigures of the main characters. The set was officially retired in 2022, but before that, it inspired the stop motion recreations it was practically designed for.
Lastly, there is the official Nightmare Before Christmas set. Out of the three Ideas sets Soares has designed, this is the only one that has not been retired yet. It is one of the most unique sets ever built at IGN and includes a wealth of incredible details from Tim Burton’s iconic film. Set #76437 includes 2,405 pieces.
