What began as a small carpentry workshop in Billund, Denmark, has evolved into one of the most iconic toy brands in the world. Founded by toymaker Ole Kirk Christiansen in the 1930s, LEGO® started with wooden toys before making a pivotal shift to plastic in the mid-20th century. The name “LEGO” is derived from the Danish words “leg godt”, meaning “play well”—a philosophy that remains at the core of the brand today.

From Wood to Plastic: A Major Innovation

In 1949, LEGO produced its first plastic brick, marking a major turning point in the company’s history. Initially met with skepticism, plastic toys gradually gained acceptance, especially after the introduction of the unique interlocking brick design. In 1958, Ole Kirk Christiansen’s son, Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, patented the now-famous clutch power system that allows LEGO bricks to snap firmly together while still being easy to disassemble. This design laid the foundation for limitless creativity and compatibility across sets for decades to come.

Expansion and the Birth of DUPLO®

By the 1960s, LEGO bricks had become popular throughout Europe. To cater to younger children, the company introduced the DUPLO® line in 1969, featuring larger bricks that were easier to handle while remaining compatible with standard LEGO elements. This innovation helped expand the brand’s reach and nurture creativity in even the youngest builders.

The Rise of the Minifigure

In 1978, LEGO debuted its now-iconic minifigures—small, yellow-faced characters that quickly became a staple of LEGO playsets. These figures added a new layer of storytelling and personalization to LEGO sets, allowing kids and adults alike to populate their builds with characters, roles, and adventures.

LEGO in the Digital and Pop Culture Era

As technology advanced, so did LEGO. The company began producing increasingly complex and themed sets, often in partnership with major franchises like Star Wars™, Marvel™, and Harry Potter™. These licensed products propelled LEGO into mainstream pop culture and expanded its appeal across all age groups. LEGO also ventured into video games, movies, and digital experiences, solidifying its reputation as a multi-generational brand.

The AFOL Movement and Global Community

LEGO isn’t just for kids. The rise of Adult Fans of LEGO (AFOLs) brought a new dimension to the brand. Online forums, conventions, and social media communities now connect thousands of enthusiasts who build intricate models, share techniques, and celebrate the joy of creative construction. LEGO has embraced this movement by launching advanced series like LEGO Ideas and LEGO Creator Expert, designed specifically for adults.

Family-Owned Legacy and Timeless Appeal

Remarkably, the LEGO Group remains a family-owned company, now run by the descendants of Ole Kirk Christiansen. This enduring legacy is mirrored in the way LEGO products are passed down from generation to generation. Many adults who cherished LEGO in their youth are now introducing it to their own children, continuing a tradition of creativity, learning, and fun.

Why the LEGO Name Matters

It’s important to note that LEGO is a registered trademark. According to the company’s brand guidelines, the word LEGO should always appear in uppercase letters and be used only as an adjective—never as a noun or in plural form. For example, the correct usage is “LEGO bricks” or “LEGO sets,” not “Legos” or “a Lego.”

Building a Creative Future

Today, LEGO continues to inspire creativity across generations. From playrooms and classrooms to boardrooms and studios, the humble brick remains a powerful tool for imagination, engineering, and expression. Whether you’re a child building your first house or an AFOL designing an intricate replica of the Eiffel Tower, LEGO bricks are the foundation of endless possibility.

Note: Goldwin Bricks is not affiliated with the LEGO Group. However, we create custom sets that are compatible with LEGO® brick systems and ideal for educational, promotional, and creative use.

Get in Touch with Goldwin Bricks

If you’re interested in custom LEGO®-compatible brick sets or want to learn more about how Goldwin Bricks can help bring your creative ideas to life, please contact us today. Our team is ready to assist with custom designs, STEM sets, promotional projects, and more!