The Architecture theme which was introduced in 2008 contains sets designed by Chicago architect Adam Reed Tucker based on real structures. Adam Reed Tucker's sets focus on incredible man-made sights and structures based upon the real world and comprised of microscale models. Unlike most LEGO, Architecture sets are typically not meant for playing but rather designed for display. The debut sets, released in 2008, were of two Chicagoan classics: Willis Tower, and John Hancock Center then New York City's Empire State Building, followed by Seattle’s Space Needle.
2009 LEGO Sets
2009 celebrated the 10th anniversary of LEGO Star Wars and the 50th anniversary of the LEGO brick. New themes included Space Police III, Power Miners, and a revival of Pirates, while Agents 2.0 continued the high-tech spy concept. LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 refined its robotics platform with enhanced sensors and programmability. The year also saw the conclusion of the original Batman line, Exo-Force, Mars Mission, and Belville, as LEGO phased out older themes in favor of new directions.