LEGO enthusiast Richard Paules has completed a 150,000-piece LEGO model of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), which will soon be displayed at the airport. The intricate replica took nine months to construct and includes detailed features such as domes inspired by the Jefferson Memorial, a control tower, and both arrival and departure levels.
The airport acquired the model after learning about Paules' project. Terry Liercke, Manager of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, expressed admiration for the work: “It’s spectacular how closely I think he’s been able to recreate the actual building. When we learned [Paules] was building it, there was no question that we’d end up acquiring it and displaying it in the terminal.”
Paules' interest in LEGO began in childhood but paused during college when he gave his collection to younger cousins. After their mother returned the pieces to him, he resumed constructing models as a hobby and for commission. His previous work includes a replica of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), completed with approximately 50,000 LEGO pieces.