10232 Palace Cinema

10232 Palace Cinema by The LEGO Group (courtesy GRogall at Eurobricks)

What an exciting way to end the year! Although the next LEGO modular has been long rumored to be a theater, Eurobricks user GRogall once again provides the fan community with the first picture and information of the next set to hit shelves with the 10232 Palace Cinema. Clearly drawing inspiration from Hollywood's famous Grauman's Chinese Theater, this set should set you back less than this year's rather grand Town Hall. As a classic movie theater fan (the cinema this is inspired from dates back to 1926 - roughly the time that the more well known Art Deco theaters started springing up), I personally couldn't be more excited. Details are still scarce, so as always I recommend watching Eurobricks to get the latest info and images as they will no doubt start trickling in.

A Good-bye to 2012 (and to Hyphens)

Like the majestic phoenix rising from the flames, or perhaps more aptly like a zombie clumsily staggering towards an easy meal, it's hard to keep Brick Town Talk down for good. It might have taken a few flesh wounds in 2012, but thankfully it dodged the all important headshot.

If you are reading this, you will see that we are now on our new domain - www.bricktowntalk.com. As it likes to do, life sometimes gets in the way, and as such the old domain is currently in limbo for the time being. The plus side is now you will be able to visit us even faster than before now that you don't have to type those time-consuming hyphens - you could (and should) update your bookmarks to reflect this change.

There are still some things that don't work correctly, but the basic blog should be more or less fine. I'm going to slowly work on getting everything back to where it was as well as implement a few enhancements here or there - nothing drastic, mostly just hair and make-up. Thankfully I am able to do this now that I am a site administrator instead of just an author.

It's been a crazy year for sure. For me personally it has seen the completion of my two largest MOCs to date, my work appearing in two museums (including 7 of my modulars currently at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center in CT as part of a collaboration with I LUG NY which will remain until the end of January) as well as multiple rotations in the Rockefeller Center LEGO Store, and learning that other people have been creating instructions of my work without asking and then selling them online - be weary of any instructions you find of my Bricklyn Borough Courthouse floating around. Still, compared to the world at large and some of the recent headlines in it, any triumphs or failures on the part of this site and its admins are extremely minor indeed.

So again I will utter my favorite phase of the past year - thank you for your patience. 

Here's to the New Year,

- Jonathan
Email: jonathan@bricktowntalk.com

Terrific Terminal

Courtesy Train Station by BelosveT

London, England - (BTT) The United States might hold a lot of titles, but being the train friendliest nation will never be one of them. Should you take a trip across the pond, though, you'll be riding the rails like a pro in no time. While the journey is no doubt one of the perks, it's really the destination that makes you buy that ticket in the first place, and there are few destinations finer than this train station. The main public entry is on axis with a public square, giving an even more impressive civic presence. Keep your eyes on the departure board and make your way trackside once it's time to go - punctuality is everything to your average conductor after all.

Emerald City Accommodations

Courtesy Lion Heart Hotel by kjw010

Not In Kansas - (BTT) Appropriately named for a tin man in the lobby, the Lion Heart Hotel boasts some of the finest in hospitality on either side of the rainbow. Easily recognizable by its dark green exterior with a pair of lions standing guard at the crown, the simple but polished details give an excellent sense of what to expect inside. Grand lobbies and spacious rooms make this a cut above your standard home away from home - there really is no place like it.

Living Large

Courtesy Herenhuis by PoweredbyNorth

Amsterdam, Netherlands - (BTT) Amsterdam might not be the largest city in the world, but you'd never know that by reading this blog. Once again we find ourselves wandering the great canal town only to stumble upon an architectural gem. Perhaps the first thing that pops out on this wonderfully designed facade is the shutters - the blue diamonds adding an extra richness to the already beautiful composition. Once you go inside, you'll quickly realize that this is more than just a pretty shell. The diamond motif carries through to the pattern on the ground floor, and the upper levels are no less compelling.

Building by the Half-Dozen

Courtesy Canal Houses by deborah higdon

Amsterdam, Netherlands - (BTT) If variety is the spice of life, your better be careful you don't burn your tongue on this charming streetscape. Six homes make up the block, each one different than the next in both size and palette. Even more impressive is the range of architectural styles to be found - nearly every window is unique, and tons of little ornamental details are just waiting to be discovered by those willing to look for them (and everyone reading this should). Yet despite all the differences, you'd be hard pressed to find a more harmonious arrangement of apartments anywhere.

Mending a Masterpiece

Courtesy MaesHouse by TwoKnightsBicycle

Belgium - (BTT) While nothing lasts forever, some things try their darnedest to prove that statement wrong. Thankfully, great architecture is often one such thing. Currently undergoing some minor repairs to the extraordinary ground floor facade (and honestly, who doesn't need a little lift and tuck after a few centuries?) MaesHouse stands just a proud as the day it first opened. Beyond the wood trimmed windows and carved stone detailing lies a very eclectic interior - from an ancient Egyption sarcophagus to a bright and cheery studio apartment, this is one building that continues to surprise both inside and out.

Gas and Grub

Courtesy ER0L's Garage by ER0L

Route 66 - (BTT) There is a certain appeal to the 1950's that seems to be more universal than any other era. The hot rods, the poodle skirts, the rock and roll - all things easy to romanticize about while still being sufficiently modern enough to seem relatable today. After all, if you are going to transport yourself somewhere in the past, you might as well pick a time that had flush toilets and televisions, even if they weren't as thin as colorful as you are accustomed to now. Pull up a seat at the counter of the V8 Diner and get yourself a burger and a malt, and enjoy being able to fill your tank at the neighboring gas station for less than the price of your typical Starbucks latte.

Psi of Relief

Courtesy Psychiatrist Office by kjw010

Neuro Alley - (BTT) Besides the odd couch-jumping actor, I think we can all agree that mental health is as important as physical health, and those who dedicate their lives to the field are certainly worthy of respect. They are also worthy of having a great building in which to practice, and the doctor in this psychiatrist office has just that. The palette might be simple - mostly grey with just a tasteful touch of green - but the detailing is anything but. On the first floor is the receptionist, while upstairs is the actual office with a rather angry athlete currently taking his spot on the couch.

Streamline and Seam Lines

Courtesy Streamline Moderne Shop by snaillad

Century Drive - (BTT) Not all Art Deco buildings are cut from the same cloth. Trading decorative panels and sharp angles for smooth surfaces and elegant curves, this Streamline Moderne shop is the perfect showcase of the style. Speaking of style, those wanting to make a fashion statement are strongly encouraged to step inside and pick up one of their signature pieces - perhaps not cheap, but can you really put a price on looking so good?

Aquatic Accommodations

Courtesy Fountain Castle by RedCoKid

Chantilly, France - (BTT) There's vacationing in style, and then there's this. The aptly named Fountain Castle - not just because of the brilliant blue hues on its facade but also because of the actual fountains on the garden side - is truly a grand hotel. Once you are done admiring the exquisite exterior details, from the wide variety of windows to the wonderful patina on the copper roof, feel free to step inside to find your bed and enjoy a night in true landmark.

The Maltese Barber

Courtesy 1228 Destinity Road by valgarise

1228 Destinity Road - (BTT) Always a fan of odd pairings, this dark green building is certainly as eclectic as it is beautiful. One the ground floor is a barber - perfect for those who have too much hair get some much needed relief. Upstairs is a detective's office, with the P.I. currently talking to a mysterious blonde straight out of a film noir classic. Finally, in the attic, a world-trekking explorer enjoys being surrounded by the spoils of his adventures. 

Scandinavian Habitations

Courtesy Swedish Sand Blue Villa by Thomas Selander

Sweden - (BTT) While the dream of home ownership might be as rosy as it has been in the past, at least in some parts of the world, there are few things more universally appealing than 4 walls all your own with a roof over them. Even better when those walls are painted such a beautiful shade of blue and trimmed elegantly in white such as this quaint Swedish home. If blue isn't your color, fear not - equally charming houses are available in both green and white, plus there is a lovely little brick number should masonry be your pleasure.

Streets Ahead

Courtesy City Module 1 by Tavernellos

Courtesy City Module 2 by Tavernellos

Rainbow Road - (BTT) While this site has occasionally featured multiple buildings at once, I do believe this is a new record. Fifteen buildings make up two sides of a street, each one different from the next in terms of color, style, and detailing. Like all urban planning success stories, it is the mix of uses that really brings life to the area. Traffic is looking a little slow, though, so perhaps you better opt for the tram instead if you're planning a trip. 

Being a Jerk

Courtesy Soda Shop by Hoexbroe

Cunningham Circle - (BTT) Nostalgia is a funny thing. While it's easy to say you miss the good ol' days of a simpler time (even if you were born decades too late to have actual memories of said time), you might be singing a different song once you realize there were only three TV channels and all phones were attached to the wall and could only be used to talk to people. Thankfully you can have the best of both worlds by using the GPS in your hybrid to visit this throwback Soda Shop, complete with an interior straight out of the 1950s. 

Seeing Red (and Orange and Yellow)

Courtesy Autumn House by jpmacmillan

Deciduous Drive - (BTT) It appears summer is finally over, and good riddance as far as this author is concerned. One of the major perks that comes with the change of seasons, besides not sweating to death the moment you step outside, is enjoying the beautiful fall foliage. Perhaps there's no where better to admire nature's paintbrush than through the ample windows of this modern yet homey vacation home. Why not curl up next to the fireplace with your hot beverage of choice and take a moment to appreciate the falling leaves - you can worry about raking them later.

Back From The Dead

Apology Avenue - (BTT) It's been a looong time. Far from being abducted by aliens or going on a secret government assignment to save the world from some genetic experiment gone wrong, alas these two months off are for a far less worthy reason - I've been busy playing with plastic bricks. I'm guessing I'm not alone, though. What started as one week off turned to two turned to many more, and I do humbly apologize for the complete lack of updates. I know many of you have been checking in regularly only to leave without your Lego architecture fix, and to that I say sorry and thank you for your patience.

As a small consolation, I submit below a peek at my own latest creations - two cast iron inspired modulars that those who live in or around the NYC area can currently see in the flesh by visiting the Lego Store at Rockefeller Center - they should remain there through November. These were originally done as part of ILUGNY's stunning display at the recent New York Comic Con, but sadly only the grey one was ready in time.

Courtesy Cast Iron District by sonicstarlight

If you created a stunning project that you feel was unfairly ignored in the BTT hiatus, or if you want to nominate someone else's work for consideration, please email me, send me a flickr mail, or just respond to this topic. Again, thank you all for your continued support - it really is appreciated.

Higher Education

Courtesy Apple Square University by RedCoKid

Graduation Boulevard - (BTT) Not all universities need their buildings to be placed along quadrangles and covered in ivy - such space (and flora) is a luxury many urban campuses just don't have access to. Located in the heart of downtown and occupying a block appropriate for their name, the Apple Square University provides those academically minded a brilliant home for their brilliant ideas. Each floor is dedicated to a different discipline and all are flooded with natural light thanks to a central atrium with an ample skylight above. Quite the payoff for all that fancy book learnin'.

Going for Gold

Courtesy Sherlock Holmes Pub by p e d

London, England - (BTT) The Olympics have come and gone, so Londoners once again can return to their local pubs without being outnumbered by a flock of tourists. Occupying the ground floor of this gorgeous Georgian townhouse is the Sherlock Holmes Pub, named for a character that has seen quite a spike in popularity as of late. The gold trim along the entry facade as well as the golden accents on the floors above give this place a certain touch of class lacking in most buildings - not to mention the fact it compliments so many of the medals handed out to the great people of Britain these past weeks. 

Gaming Goodness

Courtesy Brickin' Games by DarthNick

D-Pad Drive - (BTT) The gaming industry is certainly at a bit of a crossroads lately. Physical copies or digital distribution? $60 epics or 99¢ time wasters? Analog sticks and buttons or motion controls and touch screens? Whether this is exciting or frightening is a matter of opinion, but the fine folks at Brickin' Games have done their finger exercises and are ready to code the next great blockbuster. Working in their Mies van der Rohe-esque modernist headquarters - the dark steel exterior contrasting brilliantly with the bright and cheery interior - this company truly has an office as slick as their products.

Model of Health

Courtesy Modular Hospital by cecilihf 

Wellbeing Way - (BTT) Let's be honest - going to the hospital is rarely a pleasant occasion. The stench of disinfectant everywhere, the food that makes that on airplanes seem like fine dining, the whole getting poked with needles and scalpels and whatnot - certainly no stay at the Ritz. Still, think of where we would be without them. Located in what must be the Spanish section of Oslo based on those beautifully arched windows and stucco facade, this healthcare facility has thankfully seen many more people come into this world than they have seen depart it.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Courtesy Terrace Apartment by Myko-

Setback Street - (BTT) Apartment living can have its perks, but often times any positives get outweighed by the simple fact that you have no outdoor space to call your own. Not so for those dwelling here - both the second and third floors feature ample terraces for everything from growing a garden to getting some rays. Those who can't afford such luxurious living but can afford a hair cut are in luck - a barber shop takes up the majority of the ground floor and get your locks looking lovely in no time.

Extra Extra

Courtesy The Evening Brick by snaillad

Reporters Way - (BTT) Dating back from the era when all reporters wore fedoras with the word "Press" tucked into the band, the headquarters for The Evening Brick has seen (and reported) more history than most. Journalists are hard at work researching the latest scoop in their second floor offices while the Editor-in-Chief keeps an eye on things from his lavish top floor suite. Time is everything in this business, and with the clock in the tower ever ticking away the minutes, these employees never forget that the news waits for no man.

I'll Drink to That

Courtesy Ollivander's Pub by _Matn

Ye Olde Towne - (BTT) It's refreshing to see a place that serves refreshments that is quite content to keep it simple. Ollivander's Pub has been around for centuries, and so long as there remains a desire to grab a beer and munch on some snacks (which is possibly the most certain thing in life after death and taxes), expect to see it around for a few centuries more. Additional outdoor seating can be found beyond the arched passage, and behind the gorgeous white and black timber facade above lies an apartment that is as cozy as the pub below.

Beach Day

Courtesy Life's a Beach by Dakar A

1296 Bayside Ave.- (BTT) The summer just hasn't happened yet in coastal areas until you make a trip to the beach. The sun, sand, and waves provide a great atmosphere, and the people are usually friendly. There are all sorts of things to do on the beach, from sunbathing to building a sandcastle, and even fishing! The boardwalk is original, and the setup is modular in three places: the walls, and the water. It can be connected to a 32x32 baseplate to add to the scene! (This is a MOC I made, but I just couldn't resit tooting my own horn!)

Basic Brilliance

Courtesy City Residential Pack #3 by Brick City Depot

London, Britain- (BTT) If it ain't broken, don't fix it. A classical adage that came from who knows where, but still as prevalent today as when it was first uttered. Modular (or terraced) housing and buildings follow this quite well: build an attractive building, build another, paint it a different color, rinse and repeat. But, just because they're similar doesn't make these buildings any less unique. A great example of how one doesn't need a vast palette of colors to create a great MOC or Modular Building. Let this example inspire you, and get building!

Homely Hospitality

Courtesy One Brick Plaza by anupher

Texture Corner- (BTT) Hotels. The home away from home for many a weary traveler. What makes us love them so much? The warm, supple bedding? The free, delicious breakfast? Or the helpful, kind staff? Whatever it is, hotels are often a great place to spend the night during one's travels, and this one is amazing as well! The unique plated glass doors, the great use of the 'brick brick', the foliage creeping slowly up the side of the building are all excellent. Let's just hope they have enough supplies for an extended stay!

Smells Like Success

Courtesy Perfume Shop by alex54

Aroma Avenue - (BTT) Despite having taken many trips on public transportation that suggest otherwise, people are willing to shell out big bucks to smell like something more appealing than an armpit - thankfully this Perfume Shop will make sure you are stimulating the olfactory glands of your peers in all the right ways. Virtually anyone even remotely famous seems to have his or her own signature scent, so if you've always dreamed of smelling like a Kardashian (hopefully not, but this author is not one to judge), then look no further. On the upper floors of this art nouveau stunner is an apartment absolutely flooded with light thanks to the oversized windows of the facade and skylight on the roof.

Refuse Reuse

Courtesy Recycling Station by LegoJalex

Wastenot Way - (BTT) It seems like it wasn't all that long ago that everyone had exactly one place to put all their unwanted stuff - the dump. After a little initial moaning and a bit of prodding, sorting the recycling has become just another part of everyday life for most of us (and shame on you if it hasn't). Now that we have those neat bundles of newspaper (for the three of you that don't get your news online nowadays) and have inspected the bottom of every plastic bottle looking for the correct magical numbers, it's time to head over the Recycling Station to help them find a second chance at life. Paper or plastic, metal or glass, chemicals or compost - you name it and this place has just the container to cram it into.

Moulin Rose

Courtesy Black Cat Cabaret by RedCoKid 

Can-Can Alley - (BTT) Hydroelectric power plants. Solar powered cars. Wind powered nightclubs? Ok, so the windmill on the front of the Black Cat Cabaret might use more energy than it creates, but it makes quite the statement nonetheless. Enter through the glass canopy and take a seat by the stage - if you're lucky, you might even get a spot in the balcony (although do mind the windmill mechanics while you're up there). 

Culture Chronicled

Courtesy Museum of History by TheDarkblane

Museum Mile - (BTT) Perhaps the hardest part about going to a museum is deciding which one is worth your time. While there are some good all-purpose palaces of the past out there, others are oddly specific - is it really worth spending your day at a place devotes solely to thimbles, corkscrews, or Spam (the meat in a can, not the emails promising to enhance your you-know-what). The Museum of History knows that variety is the spice of life and offers a whole host of interesting exhibits, from medieval costumes to Asian artifacts to air and space. 

Roxy Movies

Courtesy Roxy by JiminiBrickit

Wellington, New Zealand - (BTT) It's almost hard to believe that going to the movies was once considered a cheap date - the asking price to see grown men pretend to still be in high school and punch people in the face while wearing their pajamas is certainly not what it was. While perhaps not the value they were, there is no denying that few buildings possess the style of a classic cinema. With its neon sign, brightly lit interiors, and grand main theater (which is also handicap accessible), if there was any place worthy of getting a decent chunk of your paycheck, the Roxy is it.

Rock Polishing

Courtesy Jewelery Store by Watzking3

Bay Street- (BTT) While the customer base may not be as frequent as a grocery store, or its purpose as noble as the fire station, the humble jewelery store is something that the world wouldn't be the same without. Since the beginning of time, humans have been attracted with shiny things, and one day, some smart huminoid got the idea to start selling these shiny things for as high a price as they could. And thus, the jeweler's was born! This MOC has many great features, but I particularly like the piqued roof, and the large front porch. Shows just what you can do with all that moolah!

Trouser Troubles

Courtesy Modern House by Scrat_

Newville - (BTT) Houses don't get much more modern than this. The clean lines, the vertical windows, the muted, earthy palette - no doubt this is a masterwork of contemporary design. Yet despite the newness of it all, the sight of a man in his underwear on the sidewalk getting his pants thrown at him by his angry girlfriend from the balcony above is a story as old as time itself (or at least as old as pants).

Waterfront Wander

Courtesy Promenade by Lego_fan

Historic District - (BTT) All too often we focus on stunning buildings while failing to note their importance on the urban landscape, so it is a welcome sight to see the larger context now and again. An historic castle provides a grand backdrop to this promenade, complete with a park, cafe, a bank, and a townhouse - each impressive in their own right. Feel free to take the stairs down to the water, but do watch your step (and please, no diving). 

Towering Above the Rest

Courtesy The Corner of 5th and Main by lgorlando

Corner of 5th and Main - (BTT) As urban sprawl continues unabated throughout much of the country, there are those rare developers that know there is another approach to building out - there's always the option of building up. Eight structures fill the block, giving a feeling of density rarely felt on such a tight space.  Mixing not only a variety of uses but also a variety of styles, from the traditional street fronts that would look at home on any historic Main Street in America to the modernist towers stretching ever upwards to the sky, the end result offers a little something for everyone.

Four Wheels Good, Two Wheels Better

Courtesy Urban Moto by gotoAndLego

Chopper Alley - (BTT) While some people (this author included) prefer to use a mode of transportation that won't require skin grafts should something unexpected happen, there are others who wouldn't travel any other way. The open air, the roar of the engine, the always stylish leather jackets - there are certainly upsides to motorcycle ownership, and the great folks at Urban Moto are more than willing to sell you everything a biker needs except an intimidating nickname. Should your ride need a tune up, just pull into the ground floor garage where an appropriately greasy mechanic will have her purring like new in no time.

The Call of the Sea

Courtesy The Old Lifeboat Station by Derfel Cadran

Seashore Drive- (BTT) The sea calls some men like an owner calls his dog. And many answer that call, from fishermen, to naval officers, to recreational boaters, and even those who will commit themselves to a life on the sea in a houseboat. Yes, the sea has a certiant mystic allure, and all of that charm, mystery, and intrigue is captured in this lifeboat station. From the painted wood doors to the stone walls and anchor garden, this captures the spray of the sea, calls of the gulls, and sound of the shrieking wind. And with an unflipable lifeboat, , the call of the sea is sure to reach the ears of these adventurous minifigures.

9mm and a Three-Peice Suit

Courtesy Olivander's Men's Clothing by Cunctator

12 Adogin Lane- (BTT) Magic wands just aren't as popular as they used to be, and Mr. Olivander found that end's just weren't meeting for his wand shop, so he closed up and stared into the men's fashion industry! This Modular has quite an interesting colour palette, focusing on secondary and tertiary colours, with nary a red, blue or yellow in sight. The building has a regal air, with the gilded fencing on the roof, cast iron lamps on the second floor, and a perfectly blemish-free sidewalk. It almost puts a spell on you, doesn't it?

Regent Business

Courtesy Blueberry Hill Shopping Centre by spacecolonel

Regency Square- (BTT) As is the trend, outdoor malls are becoming all the rage these days. You can look at all of the unique facades, while not feeling trapped in the routine blandness of a regular mall. Walking along one, it's quite easy to see why the new format is preferred, and this MOC is blazing the path of the outdoor mall. With signs advertising its goods, beautiful bark blue striping, and mellow an accents, this business draws in customers by the dozens. The lettering up top, as well as the platform it sits upon is nothing to shake a stick at either.

Also, happy Father's day to all of the AFOLs out there who are/ are soon to be dads! Enjoy your day.

Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous

Courtesy French Mansion by castor-troy

Nice, France- (BTT) Living in the lap of luxury is hard work. There's the constant presence of beautiful sunsets, that gleaming architecture, and too many choices of amenities. But, if you can handle the rough-and-tumble lifestyle of the rich and famous, then you can live in a beautiful hose like this. While this MOC by Castor-troy is technically still a WIP, it shines with beauty, like a lighthouse on a stormy sea.There are no shots of the interior yet, but based on his other creations, it'll be great. The tan brickwork is especially great when representing French architecture, and the building has many great shapes working together to make a highly unique corner building.

Timely Fashion

Courtesy Hats and Clocks by cimddwc

Stetson Street - (BTT) It seems that wearing hats has fallen out of favor lately, or at least those that aren't embellished with the logos of professional sports teams (and big gold stickers that people seem adverse to removing for reasons beyond this author). Doing their part to try and make the world just a little more dignified is the hat store which occupies half of the ground floor of this stunning apartment building. To make sure you stay punctual as well as dapper, head next door to the clock shop and select the timeless timepiece of your desires. Those lucky enough to live upstairs will find themselves very comfortable with an eat-in kitchen, flat screen TV, and even a little nook for a home office.

Morning Glory

Courtesy Untitled by at94

West Side- (BTT) Who knew that so much character could fit into something as small as this? It seems to tell a story of its life, from the time it was new, and the future looked bright, to now, with it fighting for its last gasp of air. Hopefully some kind citizen will appear one day, and rescue this building, and return it to its prior glory. As for the building side of this MOC, all is excellent. The slightly askew tiles, entropy of the sidewalk, and offset of the windows all lend to a unique style of something that appears to be broken, but was simply made to be that way.

New Kids on the Block

Courtesy Container House by Puriri deVry

Minimalist Lane- (BTT) Often, what we associate as 'modern architecture' is really done in a minimalist deign style. Using boxy shapes and unique arrangements of prefabricate pieces to try to elicit a unique shape and feel. Not too dissimilar from building with Lego bricks, which is why this MOC is such a striking example of what can be achieved. Using only basic Lego colours, and nothing more complex, Puriri deVry has created a hyper-realistic (if not hyper-common) representation of a type of building we are seeing more and more of these days.

Big City Dreams

Courtesy Tomato Street 3 by spacecolonel

5th Street- (BTT) Often, people will come to big cities with big dreams, big ambition, but a small pocketbook. That's where terraced housing becomes such a beautiful concept. Not only is it cheap enough for the average citizen to afford, it fits together like a stack of bricks, saving precious space. This little apartment has some great perks- an interesting second floor column, the white awnings above the windows, and the great technic piece usage at the tip of the roof. Even the Statue of Liberty decided to donate some parts to  this MOC!

Cast Iron Corner

Courtesy Bank by 99mickey_mouse99

Business District- (BTT) While this building may not have as many precise details as an official Modular set, it sure makes up for it in overall appeal. Somehow, the dark red, and two shades of tan, with black highlights seem to give this building a highly desirable character. It has a very unique facade, using bricks that appear to be plates and tiles snotted together, and with and interesting, angular bay window corner. Not only does it look good alone, it matches exquisitely with the existing modulars, and a suitable replacement for a certain Cafe.

Colour Spotting

Courtesy Tomato Street 4 by spacecolonel

Tomato Street, Table Town- (BTT) Nothing brightens up your day like a beautiful splash of colour. Maybe it's a butterfly's wing, or the budding flowers on the tree outside of your window, or even a blazing bright sports car, passing by your office window. Regardless of what it is, it 's likely to bring a smile to your face, and brighten your look at life. This building has just that splash of colour, in the form of the upstairs facade. There's also the great use of the pearl gold rod pieces, and the technic pin balconies. So, not only does this MOC embody the feel of an Art Deco terraced building, it also has some great hidden gems.

Painted Lady

Courtesy San Francisco Victorian House by Brick City Depot

San Francisco, California, U.S.A.- (BTT) In sharp contrast from yesterday's post, here's a building that could've easily fallen into disrepair, if not for the passionate efforts of a small group of people in San Francisco. Based of of San Francisco's Painted Ladies, this great little Victorian Modular fits the bill of a beautiful, older house in a sparkly, new city. The combination of dark green, white, and dark tan works especially well on this MOC, as well as the tall outdoor staircase. The building also sports a full interior, complete with excellently designed bath and bed!

One Man's Trash

Courtesy Untitled by at94

Detroit, Michigan- (BTT) With the tough economic times that hit the United States, and the world recently, some places weren't hit as hard as Detroit. With a city built around the automotive business, major bailouts of the main automotive makers doesn't bode well for the city. This MOC, built at the beginning of the economic crisis, this MOC produces a perfect image of abandoned buildings, or those on their last legs. The cracked sidewalk,broken fire escapes, and downed power lines are all great details of decapitation, but through all of the gloom, a few bright spots shine out. A couple of beautiful flowers seemed to have been able to get a new lease on life in the cracks of the dying buildings.

Awe-Inspiring

Courtesy Home Insurance Building by gordangrguric

Home Insurance Building, Chicago, Illinois- (BTT) Words barely have the power to describe the awe that I felt when I saw this MOC. Sure, many have successfully built skyscrapers before (DecoJim), but even those haven't made my jaw drop as it did on this one. The way all of the windows are in different states of shading, jut as in real life, the stonework, and even the fantastic colouring are all things to gawk at. Another amazing point is that it breaks up into 60 (!) modules, for easy transport, of course! Above all of that, since the building was demolished years ago, all he had to go off of were some black and white pictures on the Internet. Talk about a Herculean feat!

Also, this is the beginning to a great week of programming, starting tomorrow, and continuing until next Sunday, or indefinitely!