Harbormaster's Office

How do you find inspiration for your designs? What inspired this BDP set in particular?

I’m always interested in designing something modeled after a classic location or iconic concept. Something that could be the definitive version of the subject – where everything you would expect to see would be there. I look for ideas that are unique but also familiar. What characters would exist in the world and how they would behave is also a huge source of inspiration for me. 

A few different things inspired the Harbormaster’s Office. I grew up near the Atlantic Ocean in New Jersey and spent plenty of time at the beach and on the boardwalk, so I was familiar with the style of these older nautical buildings and all the boat traffic during the summer months. I started thinking what it might be like as a Harbormaster trying to keep everything orderly. I also really liked the idea of a rough-around-the-edges, curmudgeonly Harbormaster who doesn’t put up with any nonsense. Finally, I thought this would complement two of my favorite sets, the Old Fishing Store #21310, and the Motorized Lighthouse #21335. 

What was the first set you ever built? Which one is your favorite?What is one set you would love to see being made?

The very first set I ever had was the Basic Building Set #547 and it came with the Red Storage Case #783 – and that was it for a long time! I carried that everywhere! Pirates of Barracuda Bay #21322 was my favorite for quite a while, but I just recently finished Rivendell #10316, and that set has the title now – it really is outstanding. I’m excited to see sets released based on Batman the Animated Series, and a set based on that universe’s Batcave or Arkham Asylum jam-packed with minifigures based on the show would be super cool. 

How would you describe your building style? Do you usually design sets within a certain theme?

It’s very character-driven without a doubt. I almost always start with the minifigures and their perspective. Beyond that, my style sits comfortably between playful and logical. It’s important there’s a sense of fun throughout and it doesn’t take itself too seriously or try to be hyper-realistic. At the same time though, things need to make sense – even if it’s just for a joke or a hidden reference. I don’t limit myself to a certain theme. For me it’s about creating things that blend familiarity with uniqueness and fun, so any theme or subject matter is on the table. 

How would you describe your role in the LEGO fan community?

I’m not sure I have a role in the community aside from just being a fan of LEGO sets and having a passion to create. I’m just starting to build a portfolio and share my designs. I’m constantly amazed by what others produce and always interested in feedback on my designs from the fan community. 

Have you been to any LEGO community events or conventions? If so, what were they like?

I have not, though I would be interested in attending in the future.

What do you think makes a BDP set successful?

Loads of things! Some that the designer can influence and some they can’t. A fresh innovative idea that still fits with the LEGO design style of charm and fun goes a long way to getting your design some attention. A thoughtful execution of the idea and lots of shameless promotion is very helpful but it also takes a healthy amount of luck.  Like all competitions, what you bring to it is only part of the outcome, so much depends on the other competitors as well and the designers competing in each series are amazing. 

What advice would you give to the next set of hopeful BDP designers?

Keep building – you’ll only improve each time! Try not to box yourself in by designing with only a focus on becoming a finalist or trying to please everyone. Design something unique that you would want to vote for and have fun.