How Did You Get The Inspiration For This Set?; What Were Some Of The Challenges You Faced? - LEGO Ninjaga 70751 Assembly Instructions Manual

AN INTERVEIW WIth The DesIGNERS
Can you explain a little about the process of designing the
Temple of Airjitzu model?
Sure! When I started working on the Temple of Airjitzu I
had already been working on all things Ninjago for more
than four years, so you could say I was very familiar with
the universe, the tone of voice and of course our team
of Ninja. We have been equipping our Ninja with state-
of-the-art vehicles, glorious dragons and frightening
enemies year after year, but we felt they've been
missing something to give context. A chance to build
a large model came up and my mind was made up on
the direction from the start. I could finally use all the
6
bits and builds I have been keeping in boxes around
my desk. Ultimately, the model still reflects a strong
Ninjago fantasy-inspired look, with some features that
might not be based on reality.

How did you get the inspiration for this set?

It's difficult not to be inspired when digging up
references on Asian architecture. The main idea for
the model and the layout was to provide our main
characters with an environment where they could
take a break from saving the land of Ninjago. The
centerpiece pagoda is luxurious and intricate while the
blacksmith's shop has a humble feel to it. The contrast
is clear in the differences between the buildings such
as the color, roof styles, windows, and the purpose
they serve. Too much contrast can cause confusion so
I set up the base layout to be visually symmetrical with
the fountain serving as the center.

What were some of the challenges you faced?

Knowing when to stop! The village had the potential
to grow in so many different directions, but it was
important to represent the essentials. The idea of
the shadow theater came later in the
process, which meant that it had