Modular Pompidou Centre

Given the old-world charm of the Modular Building series, this Modular Pompidou design acts as a bold counterpoint. Surrounded by the low-rise density of Paris, France, The Georges Pompidou Centre is a bold modernist statement creating simplified gallery/museum spaces inside by exposing all the building's systems to the exterior.

Upon visiting in the late 80s, a complete LEGO model greeted visitors in the entry hall; an excellent fit given the limited color-range of elements at the time. This is on account that Italian Architect Renzo Piano utilized a color-coding system for the various elements: white for structural, red for vertical circulation, blue for air/ventilation and green for water services. This color scheme is easy for visitors to read while avoiding distractions from the artwork within.

Of course, a variety of minifigures would be included per the official design team's preference, tourists, vendors, museum staff, artists, etc.  Four generic minifigures are shown in purple only to demonstrate scale and head clearance. To facilitate play-ability, one structural frame is hinge-mounted, easily folding down to allow the temporary removal of the roof café deck as well as the second and third floor galleries. The gallery ceilings have blue plates aligning with the exterior ductwork to end with interior dishes as diffusers. The roof level includes a kitchen also with a removable roof for interior access. A string-driven elevator platform is included with multiple side-studs available for parking at the various levels.

The GPC is huge, consisting of 26 structural bays for each of its six stories totaling 156. While this would far exceed the scope of a typical LEGO set, all the vital elements are included here limited to a standard baseplate supporting 36 bays made from 2,114 elements. (Thus, collectors are encouraged to purchase 5 production units for an accurate and complete model.) Whereas the original building was designed to stand out from the Parisian context, this design would similarly be a bold addition to any modular collection while complimenting any of the Eiffel Tower sets.