If your kids are LEGO-mad, this is one build story that will really impress them. An Irish mother-and-son LEGO artist duo once took on an enormous challenge: recreating the Subtropical Swimming Paradise at Center Parcs Longford Forest — brick by brick.
The result was a stunning 1:1 LEGO replica, built using an incredible 55,667 LEGO bricks. It’s the kind of project that shows just how far a love of LEGO (and a lot of patience) can go.
The Amazing LEGO Model
The finished model measured 2m x 1.5m and took 105 days to complete, adding up to roughly 840 hours of building time. It was created to showcase what the new Subtropical Swimming Paradise at Center Parcs Longford would look like once it opened its doors.
Meet the LEGO Artists Behind the Build
The model was created by Jessica and Faolán Farrell, a mother-and-son LEGO artist duo from Rathangan, Co. Kildare, who are well known for their large-scale LEGO creations.
Jessica explains that her love of LEGO started when she was just four years old, so working on a project like this — and doing it alongside her own son — was a dream come true. “When I was asked to collaborate on something so exciting, and to do so with my own son, Faolán, I jumped at the chance,” she says.
Between them, the pair spent 840 hours piecing together all 55,667 bricks to bring the Subtropical Swimming Paradise to life in miniature form.
About the Subtropical Swimming Paradise
The real-life pool complex at Center Parcs Longford Forest was designed as Ireland’s first Subtropical Swimming Paradise, heated to 29.5°C and surrounded by tropical planting — the kind of all-weather family swimming spot that makes a brilliant rainy-day escape.
At the time the model was built, it wasn’t open for public viewing. If you’d love to see it in person, it’s worth checking directly with Center Parcs for the latest information on whether — and where — it might be on display.
Looking for More LEGO Fun?
If your children enjoyed hearing about this epic build, they might enjoy a challenge of their own. Sign in (or create a free MyKidsTime account) to download our 30 Day LEGO Challenge — a fun way to keep LEGO fans busy with a new build idea every day.
You might also enjoy: Go Behind the Scenes at LEGO House with Netflix
Frequently Asked Questions
How many LEGO bricks were used to build the model?
The model was built using 55,667 LEGO bricks.
Who built the LEGO model of the Subtropical Swimming Paradise?
It was created by mother-and-son LEGO artist duo Jessica and Faolán Farrell, from Rathangan, Co. Kildare.
How long did it take to build?
The build took 105 days in total, adding up to around 840 hours of work.
Can you go and see the model in person?
At the time it was built, the model wasn’t open to the public. If you’re hoping to see it for yourself, it’s best to check with Center Parcs directly for current details.
Related Articles
- Go Behind the Scenes at LEGO House with Netflix
- 30 Day LEGO Challenge (free printable download)
- More rainy-day activity ideas for LEGO fans
Before You Go
Over to you — would your LEGO-mad child have the patience to build something out of 55,667 bricks? Let us know in the comments below, and browse our rainy-day activity ideas for more inspiration to keep them busy on a wet afternoon.
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