LEGO’s Stunning Tribute To The Cullen House From Twilight

In a delightful collision of pop culture and design, the iconic Hoke House in Portland, Oregon—popularly known as the ‘Cullen House’ from the Twilight saga—is reborn as an official LEGO set. Originally designed by Skylab Architecture and built in 2007, the Hoke House has earned its place among architectural landmarks in the LEGO Architectural Series. This series features renowned structures such as ‘Fallingwater,’ ‘Notre Dame,’ and the ‘Taj Mahal,’ celebrating architectural artistry in a playful format. The transformation of this celebrated residence into a detailed LEGO model marks a significant moment where cinema meets architectural heritage.

Founded in 1999, Skylab Architecture has long been recognised as a leading creative force in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. “It’s an honour to see our work resonate with so many people,” says Jeff Kovel founder of Skylab. Their portfolio spans from spectacular residences for creative luminaries to distinctive music venues and high-profile commercial projects, including the Serena Williams Building at Nike’s World Headquarters. Skylab Architecture’s inclusion in the LEGO series is not merely a nod to their past achievements—it is a celebration of their continued influence on contemporary design. 

Rebuilding the Cullen House Legacy With LEGO Bricks

The reimagining of the Hoke House as a LEGO set is more than a toy release—it is a masterclass in architectural reinvention. LEGO enthusiasts and design connoisseurs can appreciate how the model captures the building’s essence. The set meticulously replicates key architectural features, from the sleek lines of the exterior to the interior layouts that include Carlisle’s infirmary, the kitchen/living space, and the library. Such attention to detail offers a tactile, interactive way to experience the nuances of modern design in the celebrated landmark.

The inclusion of mini figures of characters like Charlie Swan, Jacob Black, Bella Swan, Edward Cullen, Alice, Rosalie, and Carlisle Cullen, adds a layer of narrative to the model. These figures, integral to the ‘Twilight’ story, invite the observer to imagine the interplay between architecture and character – an enriching convergence of storytelling and design. Reducing a complex structure into LEGO bricks is both a design challenge and an artistic triumph. 

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 The Intersection of Cinema and Architecture

Few projects illustrate the confluence of film and design as vividly as this one. The ‘Twilight Saga,’ known for its atmospheric settings and iconic imagery, has cemented the Cullen House in the public imagination. Set on the edge of Portland’s Forest Park, the home’s secluded setting and elevated position—almost like a modern treehouse—perfectly mirror the Cullen family’s quest for privacy in nature. 

Its sleek, timeless design and dramatic cantilever capture the imagination, with a nod to the film’s dynamic visuals where vampires leap effortlessly between trees. This distinctive blend of natural isolation and modern design made the Hoke House an ideal choice for the Twilight saga. With the film series ranking among the top 20 highest‐grossing movie franchises, the house’s cultural significance is indisputable. Its presence on screen elevated the residence from an architectural masterpiece to a symbol of cinematic allure. While the Skylab team was not directly involved in the development of the LEGO set, they were moved by this outcome that was driven purely by fans who submitted a mockup of the home for a contest. 

This LEGO set bridges the gap between fantasy and reality. It translates the mystique of the Twilight universe into a form that both design purists and pop culture fans can enjoy. In doing so, it underscores a broader trend where mainstream media increasingly acknowledges the value of architectural storytelling. 

Unique Aspects of the Hoke House 

Originally envisioned as a spec project on a steep, triangular lot, the design for the Hoke House was driven by the desire to create an unforgettable arrival. Approaching the home from below, the dramatic cantilever draws the eye upward toward the forest canopy, establishing a sense of grandeur from the very first moment.

The Hoke House, named after the owner John Hoke, a Nike footwear direction,  distinguishes itself with expansive use of glass and a prominent cantilever that crafts a striking entrance. Floor-to-ceiling windows forge a seamless bond between indoor spaces and the natural surroundings, flooding the interior with light and offering uninterrupted views of the forest. The building’s network of decks and patios further enhances its connection to nature, making it a modern architectural masterpiece that balances cutting-edge technology with natural materials.

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The Cultural Impact of a LEGO Revival

In today’s design landscape, projects that merge art with commercial appeal are increasingly significant. The LEGO set of the Hoke House epitomises this trend by converting an architectural icon into an object of mass appeal. In doing so, it ensures that the narrative of modern architecture reaches a broader audience. This interdisciplinary approach reinforces the idea that architecture is not only for architects but for everyone.

By transforming the Hoke House into a LEGO model, the project opens up discussions about the evolution of design and the role of architecture in popular culture. This is not just a collector’s item—it is a conversation starter that prompts us to consider how art and architecture can intersect in unexpected ways.