I seldom purchase a set on release date, but this was an exception.
I knew from all the pre-release media that this set is a "must have" for City and Modular fans. After building the model and admiring it in person, my hunch was correct!

The architecture is spot on for a stately building. I don't know proper terminology, but the arches, columns and plinth-like foundation give me a Victorian vibe. The greebling along the roofline fascia flows perfectly with the spacious glass domes, tying the structure together masterfully!

The interior observation deck with its spiral stairway has a wrought iron vibe which feels period correct!

One of my favourite touches is the ability to easily remove the double-thick walls from the coffee shop and arid garden atria. Super slick!

The coffee shop is super well-appointed in its own right, and somewhere I'd like to hang out!

The pacing of the build is fantastic. The repetitive sections are broken up, and mingled with different portions of the build. For instance, instead of completing all the tiling at once, you build a bit of tile, then a bit of structure. It's my favourite build experience in recent memory (IMO better than Tudor Corner, Corner Garage, and Assembly Square).

Pros: Almost everything (including minifigs)

Cons: I shelf-display my Modulars. For me, I would have preferred a more seamless integration with the Modular standard. The counter to my preference is that in reality, a building such as this would be surrounded by open green space. As is, the building is a perfect opportunity to add an open park area to a City layout that has more horizontal depth availability.

Looking at it another way, I have a fun mod project in waiting. ;-)

Neutral: Price. The set is expensive. However, if you're interested in City or Modular themes, or someone who just likes the very best design and build experience LEGO can offer, the set is worth it.

Two final thoughts:

First, I think it will be challenging to find this set on discount in the USA. You *might* succeed if you're a super vigilant price stalker. Short of that, your best bet is to pick it up during a Double Points promo, an attractive GWP, &/or some third party cash-back deal.

Lastly, I've been building LEGO since before the minifig era. This set falls into my top 10%, even accounting for my remarks about integration. It's that good. I have Zero regrets about the purchase (but I did cash in some Insider's Points during checkout--lol!).