LEGO Modular Buildings: A Complete History (2007–2026)
- Admin
- 1 hour ago
- 5 min read
The LEGO Modular Building series remains one of the most popular and collectible themes among LEGO fans. Since launching in 2007, each annual release has wowed builders with detailed architecture, immersive storytelling, and intricate designs that connect seamlessly to create vibrant LEGO cityscapes. As we head into 2026, now is the perfect time to explore the complete history of LEGO Modular Buildings and preview the highly anticipated sets coming in the LEGO Modular 2026 lineup.
What Are LEGO Modular Buildings?
LEGO Modular Buildings are large-scale, detailed structures designed for advanced builders. They typically consist of multiple floors, removable roofs, and rich interior designs, allowing builders to explore both the inside and outside of each building. They are also designed to connect with each other, forming an expansive city block. Formerly known as the flagship annual release of the LEGO Creator Expert series, more recently LEGOGO made a significant change to the series changing it to the LEGO ICONS Theme.
Now, let’s dive into the history of this iconic series.
LEGO Modular Building Series: 2007–2025
LEGO Creator Expert Café Corner (10182) | 2007
The first-ever LEGO modular, Café Corner, set the standard for future releases with its corner design, towering hotel, and vibrant color scheme. It’s remembered for its simple yet innovative design, featuring open interiors and detailing that inspired the direction of the series.
LEGO Factory Market Street (10190) | 2007
Although the set was originally branded under the Factory line, sources such as Brickset have categorized it as a Creator Expert model, in line with the other modular buildings. This decision follows confirmation from LEGO itself, as noted in the Assembly Square designer video, where it was acknowledged as part of the Modular Building series. The set was included due to its design and compatibility with other modular buildings, featuring similar architectural details and the ability to connect with neighboring sets, making it a natural fit in the Modular Building Series lineup.
LEGO Creator Expert Green Grocer (10185) | 2008
This highly popular set focused on a grocery store with an elaborate facade, detailed interior, and fully functional elevator. Its build complexity made it an instant fan favorite.
LEGO Creator Expert Fire Brigade (10197) | 2009
This classic-style firehouse features a 1930s design with a large garage, firetruck, and bell tower. The LEGO Fire Brigade brought more storytelling into the series with its thematic design.
LEGO Creator Expert Grand Emporium (10211) | 2010
This set gave us a bustling department store complete with mannequins, an escalator, and a rooftop billboard. The LEGO Creator Expert Grand Emporium embodied the spirit of downtown shopping districts.
LEGO Creator Expert Pet Shop (10218) | 2011
The LEGO Creator Expert Pet Shop introduced a dual-building concept, with two connected but different structures—a pet shop and a townhouse. The modular trend of flexible, detachable buildings took hold here.
LEGO Creator Expert Town Hall (10224) | 2012
Standing taller than previous sets, the LEGO Creator Expert Town Hall is a three-story government building with elegant architecture and a fully outfitted wedding hall.
LEGO Creator Expert Palace Cinema (10232) | 2013
With an old-Hollywood aesthetic, the LEGO Creator Expert Palace Cinema introduced a glamorous movie theater featuring a red carpet entrance and classic retro vibes.
LEGO Creator Expert Parisian Restaurant (10243) | 2014
One of my personal favorites, this charming French-inspired bistro is a fan favorite due to its intricate detailing, balcony dining area, and clever interior design.
LEGO Creator Expert Detective’s Office (10246) | 2015
This film-noir-inspired set came with a detective’s office, barbershop, and secret speakeasy, complete with a hidden story involving cookie smuggling!
LEGO Creator Expert Brick Bank (10251) | 2016
A detailed bank building with an adjoining laundromat, the LEGO Creator Expert Brick Bank brought a sophisticated, classic look to the modular series and introduced a fully functioning vault.
LEGO Creator Expert Assembly Square (10255) | 2017
Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the LEGO modular series, the Assembly Square is a large and complex build that combined a variety of businesses and shops, a tribute to earlier sets.
LEGO Creator Expert Downtown Diner (10260) | 2018
This retro 1950s diner kind of broke the mold and added a pop of color to the modular series with its unique Art Deco style, vibrant pink diner counter, and even a recording studio on the upper floor.
LEGO Creator Expert Corner Garage (10264) | 2019
A vintage-style gas station and auto repair shop, Corner Garage added a practical, utilitarian aspect to the city block, complete with a veterinarian clinic.
LEGO Creator Expert Bookshop (10270) | 2020
With a beautiful color palette, the LEGO Creator Expert Bookshop was a more residential-focused modular, offering a quaint bookshop and a townhouse with a peaceful garden.
LEGO ICONS Police Station (10278) | 2021
The 2021 LEGO Modular Building was the first in the series following the rebranding of LEGO Creator Expert as LEGO ICONS. The Police Station brought a storytelling element with its classic police department catching a crook in the act of stealing newspapers. The detailed interiors and crime-related storyline were a big hit with fans.
LEGO ICONS Boutique Hotel (10297) | 2022
This elegant five-star Boutique Hotel evoked Mediterranean architecture and offered elaborate detailing, from an art gallery to a rooftop terrace.
LEGO ICONS Jazz Club (10312) | 2023
The LEGO ICONS Jazz Club took the modular series into the world of music, with a vibrant blue and red design, a pizzeria, and a jazz band setup. It was celebrated for its unique theme and variety of musical elements.
LEGO ICONS Natural History Museum (10326) | 2024
The Natural History Museum is a stunning addition to the LEGO Modular Building Series, reflecting intricate architectural details inspired by real-world museums. Designed with a classic facade, the build features ornate columns, large windows, and grand staircases leading to the entrance. Inside, the set includes highly detailed exhibits like dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and historical artifacts, giving builders an immersive experience.
LEGOÂ ICONS Tudor Corner (10350) | 2025
The LEGO Modular Tudor Corner set is 2025's addition to the LEGO Modular Building Series, capturing the classic timber-framed architecture of Tudor-style buildings. Featuring intricate woodwork, overhanging upper floors, and authentic brick details, this set brings a historic European streetscape to life. Inside, builders can explore fully furnished rooms, including a cozy tavern, a shopfront, and residential spaces, making it a detailed and immersive build for collectors and LEGO fans alike.
LEGOÂ ICONS Shopping Street (11371) | 2026
The LEGO Icons Shopping Street set is the newest addition to the Modular Buildings Collection for 2026, bringing a detailed shopping district to life with two interconnected storefronts, a cobblestone alleyway, and a cozy upper-floor apartment. Featuring a LEGO music shop, a furniture store, and charming outdoor details like streetlamps, planters, and a rooftop patio, this build delivers the layered storytelling and architectural charm fans expect from the series. With its mix of vibrant storefronts, thoughtful interiors, and modular connectivity, the LEGO ICONS Shopping Street is a standout release for LEGO Modular Buildings collectors and city builders alike.
The Future of LEGO Modular Buildings
As we look forward to the next LEGO Modular release, the tradition of architectural creativity and detailed storytelling continues. Each year brings new surprises, unique themes, and innovations in build techniques.
Stay tuned for more updates on the LEGO modular buildings 2027, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for the latest LEGO news, reviews, and building tips! Also, head down to the comments section below and let us know what you think about the upcoming LEGO Modular Building for 2026. Happy building!
