Has it really been over a year since we’ve last experienced a new Ralf Langer build? Just when we need it most, Ralf returns to brighten our day with The “Geode,” a serene scene built atop a slice of polished stone. The builder’s hallmarks are here: soothing colors, twisting trees, intricate architecture, and composition that is second to none. The limited color palette is striking, sticking to white for the rocks, bark, and pavilion steps. For the geode surface, Ralf worked with lime green but confesses that he would have preferred to use medium green but lacked the necessary parts to pull it off. I especially admire the pavilion roof, which incorporates clever techniques like a twisted chain on the top and minifig hands to create intricate latticework.

Are you inspired by this zen-like build? Why not browse our Ralf Langer archives, or if you’re curious about making trees like these, check out this handy tutorial from the builder.