I realize my opinion about this set might not align with the majority, but to be honest, this isn’t my favorite modular building. In fact, it might just be the one I like the least in the entire lineup. That said, I’m not here to sway your opinion—if you love this set, that’s great! LEGO sets resonate differently with everyone, and that’s part of the magic. However, I’d like to take some time to explain why this particular model doesn’t work for me and why I feel it falls short of being a fully realized, finished product. There’s so much potential here, but certain aspects leave me feeling like something is missing.
So, let’s dive into the details and explore my thoughts on the Tudor Corner modular set.
Minifigures
Let’s start with the minifigures. This set includes seven characters plus one mannequin displayed in the Haberdashery. While some minifigures align with the theme, others feel slightly out of place. For example, the chimney sweeper’s all-black outfit and hoodie element are intriguing but don’t quite fit the set’s overall vibe. Similarly, the animal-loving lady, though featuring a unique jumper and dual-sided facial print, doesn’t have a logical role in the set. She comes with a cargo bike for transporting her cats, yet there’s no designated space to park it—a missed opportunity.
On the other hand, the Inn owner and cook fit the theme much better, both featuring dual-sided facial prints. The clockmaker is also well-designed, with a subtle dual-sided face hidden behind his beard. The Haberdashery owner is appropriately dressed, and their resemblance to the set’s designer adds a delightful touch. The mannequin, elegantly dressed in black, is a nice addition.
That said, the set could have benefited from more male minifigures to balance out the narrative surrounding the inn, haberdashery, and clockmaking. What do you think? Would a more diverse lineup of minifigures enhance the storytelling?
Exterior
As the name suggests, the Tudor Corner is a corner building designed to connect seamlessly with other Modular Buildings. It includes a streetlamp and a table made from a barrel, replacing the usual bench. The build itself blends architectural styles, which I find problematic. Tudor-style buildings typically predate the widespread use of brick structures, making the combination historically and architecturally inconsistent.
This inconsistency makes the set feel unfinished. A more cohesive approach—either Tudor-style throughout or entirely brick-built—would have improved the design. The current mix feels akin to combining London’s National Theatre with the Paris Opera House—styles that clash rather than complement.
The ground floor houses the inn and is one of the strongest aspects of the set. The dark green and black color scheme, accented with gold and flowers, creates a cohesive and charming look. Unique details, like black droid legs used in the design and a beautifully printed inn sign, add character. However, the angled layout of the inn creates a balcony on the middle floor that isn’t accessible, which seems like a missed opportunity.
The middle floor houses the clockmaker’s workshop, but its design feels inconsistent. The mix of Tudor-style windows and other elements doesn’t harmonize well. Above the balcony, a clock with a unique printed tile deviates from LEGO’s usual “eight to twelve” motif. While a humorous note in the manual explains this, the inconsistency might frustrate collectors. A botanical piece cleverly used as a gutter elbow stands out as a creative highlight.
The top floor adopts a classic Tudor style with timber framing but uses an inefficient building technique that takes up too much space. The roof, though intricately detailed, could have been executed more effectively. Overall, the blending of styles and inconsistent proportions detract from the set’s appeal.
Interior
As with all modular buildings, the Tudor Corner features multiple floors with detailed interiors. The ground floor includes a cozy inn and a charming haberdashery. The inn’s seating area and well-stocked counter capture the theme well. The compact kitchen, though cleverly designed, feels cramped, and the lack of interior stairs disrupts the inn’s functionality. The Haberdashery, with its hats, fabrics, and mannequins, effectively conveys its purpose but feels slightly underwhelming in size.
The middle floor’s clockmaker’s workshop feels too spacious and underutilized. While it includes various clocks and a detailed work desk, the space could have been better optimized with additional tools or furniture. The upper floor, designed as a living space, lacks essential features like a kitchen or bathroom. Instead, it focuses on cats and bugs in terrariums, which feels impractical and underwhelming.
Final Thoughts
This set, priced at $230/€230/£200, includes 3,266 pieces and seven minifigures. While it offers some creative details and clever building techniques, the inconsistencies in style and proportions leave it feeling unfinished. The Corner Kiosk gift-with-purchase, released alongside this set, feels more cohesive and charming in comparison.
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