Summertime daydreams of coastal Italian getaways just got a whole lot more accessible. LEGO has unveiled its latest Ideas set, the 21359 Italian Riviera, a vibrant slice of Mediterranean charm that lets builders construct their own pocket-sized version of those iconic cliffside villages without the airfare. The 3,251-piece model transforms plastic bricks into a sun-drenched Ligurian village scene that practically radiates warmth, complete with terracotta roofs, flower-adorned balconies, and crystal-blue waters lapping against weathered stone steps.
This set represents another triumph for the LEGO Ideas platform, where fan designers submit concepts that can eventually become official products. The Italian Riviera began life as a submission from Portland-based designer Alex Sahli, whose passion for Italian travel and architecture shines through in every carefully considered detail. His original concept has been refined by LEGO’s in-house design team while maintaining the essence of what made the initial submission so appealing: that perfect balance between architectural authenticity and playful charm that defines the best LEGO creations.
Designers: Alex Sahli & LEGO
The build centers around two main structures, a warm yellow building and a rich terracotta orange one, both quintessentially Mediterranean in their styling. Each features multiple stories that can be accessed by removing the roofs and upper floors, revealing meticulously detailed interiors. The yellow building houses what appears to be a diving equipment shop on the ground floor, complete with a turquoise scooter parked outside that adds a perfect pop of color against the pastel walls. The orange building contains a fresh seafood shop, while at the back in the peach-colored building is what might be the set’s most delightful feature: a gelato shop with a tiny display case, scoops, and even a “Best Gelateria 2025” certificate hanging proudly on the wall. I can practically smell the salty sea air and taste the pistachio gelato as we speak!
The set includes ten minifigures that bring this coastal community to life. There’s a fishmonger complete with knife and fish, a gelato shop owner serving excited customers, a fisherman in his boat, and various townsfolk going about their daily business. Each character sports unique outfits and accessories that reflect the casual elegance of Italian coastal style, from sundresses to striped shirts. A particular standout is an older woman with gray hair enjoying coffee on her balcony, embodying the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
The waterfront area ties everything together with remarkable attention to detail. A small fishing boat bobs in the translucent blue water elements, while a stone quay features market stalls, benches, and various small vignettes of village life. The clever use of textured pieces creates an authentic-looking cobblestone street, while tiny details like flowerpots, hanging laundry, and window shutters contribute to the lived-in feel. LEGO designers have employed some impressive building techniques throughout, particularly in the roofing and façade details, where clever part usage creates the impression of weathered, centuries-old architecture using modern plastic bricks.
The warm colors, the density of the buildings, the mixture of commercial and residential spaces, and the way the structures interact with the water all contribute to a model that feels authentically Italian. The designers have understood that the appeal of places like Cinque Terre or Portofino isn’t just their picturesque quality but their sense of community and history. This set manages to convey that feeling through thoughtful details like tiny cats perched on ledges, laundry hanging between buildings, and residents chatting in doorways.
The LEGO Ideas Italian Riviera (21359) will be available starting August 7, 2025, for LEGO Insiders, with general release following on August 10. At $299.99 (£249.99/€279.99), it represents a significant investment, but the piece count of 3,251 and the incredible detail justification for serious LEGO enthusiasts and Italophiles alike. Early purchasers will also receive a bonus Gift with Purchase: the Italian Market Van (5009422), a 142-piece model of a delivery vehicle heading to market. Whether displayed on a shelf as a reminder of past travels or used as inspiration for future adventures, this set captures the timeless appeal of the Italian coast in a format that can be enjoyed year-round, no passport required.
The post LEGO’s 3,251-brick Italian Riviera Set Brings Sunshine and Gelato to Your Shelf This Summer first appeared on Yanko Design.