We Build LEGO SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom: a F.U.N. Build for Nostalgic Adults

In the year 1999, the beloved Nickelodeon cartoon SpongeBob SquarePants first aired, captivating audiences with its whimsical underwater world. Over two and a half decades later, LEGO has released a new adult-themed set titled "LEGO SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom" (set #11386). This 1,794-piece masterpiece is the first new SpongeBob-themed set in over a decade and the largest of its kind to date.

As a nostalgic millennial, I fondly recall the original 2006 set, which contained just 579 pieces and featured a somewhat unappealing Squidward minifigure. Today, Lego has reimagined the set for its mature audience, incorporating more intricate designs and improved minifigure quality.

The set is divided into two instruction books, with the first book focusing on Patrick and Squidward's houses and the second dedicated entirely to SpongeBob's pineapple residence. The construction process is divided into seven bags, with Patrick's house being the quickest to assemble due to its single bag contents. Patrick's house consists of a single floor with various sand furniture, including a chair, lamp, rug, and CRT TV.

SpongeBob's pineapple house, however, is the centerpiece of this set and features an impressive array of references to the series, such as the Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy Easter egg, the shellphone, the photo of Gary, and various friends like Penny, Chip, and Used Napkin. The design of SpongeBob's pineapple takes a unique approach, with the bottom floor showcasing numerous nods to the show, such as the hidden Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy Easter egg, the shellphone, and Gary's dessert on the wall.

Upstairs, SpongeBob's bedroom includes his bed with a ladder and diving board, along with an alarm clock and Gary's dessert. The designers put considerable effort into recreating SpongeBob's iconic pineapple house, making it the highlight of this set.