Toys - Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:39:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 ESA’s LEGO-like space bricks made from meteorite dust explore building houses on the Moon https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/27/esas-lego-like-space-bricks-made-from-meteorite-dust-explore-building-houses-on-the-moon/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=esas-lego-like-space-bricks-made-from-meteorite-dust-explore-building-houses-on-the-moon Thu, 27 Jun 2024 13:20:27 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496818

ESA’s LEGO-like space bricks made from meteorite dust explore building houses on the Moon

In sci-fi movies and TV shows, we’ve seen houses or structures built on other planets and on the moon. That’s probably still decades away from...
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In sci-fi movies and TV shows, we’ve seen houses or structures built on other planets and on the moon. That’s probably still decades away from actually happening but it doesn’t mean that we can’t start dreaming about it. And those that are actually involved in space things are doing more than just dreaming, they’re actually testing things out to prepare for the possibility. And now we’re getting the first tiny steps into thinking how we can build homes for the astronauts on the moon.

Designer: European Space Agency

The scientists at the ESA have come up with space bricks, similar to the LEGO bricks that a lot of them (and a lot of us) love. The idea is to explore whether the materials found on the moon can actually be used to build houses and other structures. It makes sense to use what’s already there rather than bringing over building materials from earth. The surface there has layers of rocks and mineral fragments called lunar regolith. Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of that material here on Earth to actually play around with.

What the scientists did is to grind up 4.5-billion-year-old meteorite (which was found in North Africa 20 years ago) and mix them with some polylactide and regolith stimulant. The mixture was then used to 3D print some bricks in the style of LEGO. Since this is from meteorite, it only comes in “stylish space grey” color. With these bricks, they can test creating some small-scale structures to play around with the possibility of eventually using regolith to build houses on the Moon.

Some of the ESA space bricks will be displayed at selected LEGO stores so kids (and maybe adults) can play around with it. They want to encourage kids to become interested in space and build their own LEGO Moon bases. Seeing bricks that have billions of years materials on it seems like a pretty interesting experience if there’s a LEGO store near you.

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LEGO replica of Pre-War Bentley Blower celebrates the Le Mans racecar’s vintage iconic design https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/25/lego-replica-of-pre-war-bentley-blower-celebrates-the-le-mans-racecars-vintage-iconic-design/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lego-replica-of-pre-war-bentley-blower-celebrates-the-le-mans-racecars-vintage-iconic-design Tue, 25 Jun 2024 19:15:34 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496492

LEGO replica of Pre-War Bentley Blower celebrates the Le Mans racecar’s vintage iconic design

In the roaring twenties, a spirit of racing innovation coursed through Bentley. Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin, a charismatic Bentley driver, craved more power. Against company...
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In the roaring twenties, a spirit of racing innovation coursed through Bentley. Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin, a charismatic Bentley driver, craved more power. Against company founder W.O. Bentley’s wishes, Birkin commissioned a supercharger for the revered 4½ Litre model. This modification, with its prominent belt-driven blower, became the hallmark of the “Blower Bentleys.” Though never achieving Le Mans glory, these machines, particularly the four “Team Blowers,” were renowned for their speed and Birkin’s daring races. Their imposing presence and signature whine cemented their place in automotive history, making the Bentley Blower an icon of pre-war racing elegance and raw power… and now a LEGO set is commemorating their 100th anniversary and their iconic design. Created by LEGO builder ‘N.ik.Le.go.’, the LEGO Ideas Bentley Blower captures the old-world glory of its predecessor, in a scaled-down format that still feels just as beautiful.

Designer: N.ik.Le.go.

Built to a 1:13th scale, this LEGO MOC (My Own Creation) uses 707 bricks, making it fairly uncomplicated compared to most other builds. The design cleverly combines classic LEGO® bricks with elements from the Technic range, allowing for a realistic recreation of the car’s shape and features.

Under the hood (which opens, of course!), you’ll find a detailed, non-functional representation of the car’s powerful engine. The exterior is equally impressive, with a dark green color scheme reminiscent of the original Bentleys and printed parts that add finesse. Look closely, and you’ll spot the British flag adorning the doors, a subtle nod to the car’s heritage.

A fan-made build, the Bentley Blower is a submission on the LEGO Ideas forum – an online dashboard where enthusiasts can build and share their own LEGO designs. The forum sees hundreds of submissions every day, with the community even voting for their favorites. The LEGO Ideas Bentley Blower currently holds a little over 800 votes, and needs to reach the 10,000 vote mark to be considered by LEGO’s internal team for retail production. If you want to see the Bentley Blower turn into a real box-set, head down to the LEGO Ideas website and cast your vote now

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From Track to Table: How LEGO Captures the Essence of McLaren MCL37 https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/25/from-track-to-table-how-lego-captures-the-essence-of-mclaren-mcl37/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-track-to-table-how-lego-captures-the-essence-of-mclaren-mcl37 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:40:57 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496388

From Track to Table: How LEGO Captures the Essence of McLaren MCL37

Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of Formula 1 racing with a fun twist? Today, we’re comparing the real-life McLaren MCL37, the...
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Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of Formula 1 racing with a fun twist? Today, we’re comparing the real-life McLaren MCL37, the 2023 superstar of the F1 circuit, with its LEGO Speed Champions counterpart. We’ll explore the incredible design and engineering of the real car and see how well LEGO captured its essence in a model you can build and play with. Whether you’re an F1 fanatic or a LEGO enthusiast, this comparison will give you a thrilling look at how these two worlds collide. Buckle up and join us on this exciting journey from the racetrack to the LEGO table!

Designer: Lego

LEGO McLaren MCL37

Real Car: McLaren MCL37

The McLaren MCL37 is the latest entry from McLaren Racing for the 2023 Formula 1 season. Founded by Bruce McLaren in 1963, McLaren has been a prominent name in F1 racing, known for creating fast and technologically advanced cars. The MCL37 continues this tradition with a hybrid Mercedes-AMG engine, combining a V6 turbo engine with an energy recovery system to make the car both powerful and fuel-efficient. Designed with aerodynamics in mind, it’s shaped to minimize air resistance. It’s also constructed from lightweight yet strong carbon fiber, making it both tough and light. Safety is a top priority, with features like the Halo device to protect the driver.

2023 McLaren MCL37

Designer: McLaren

The McLaren MCL37’s design is a marvel of modern engineering. The car features a sleek, aerodynamic body designed to reduce drag and maximize downforce, allowing it to zip through corners at high speeds. The front wing is complex, with multiple elements to manage airflow and maintain stability. The rear wing and diffuser work together to increase downforce, keeping the car glued to the track. The side pods are sculpted to channel air efficiently, cooling the engine and other components while also contributing to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. The MCL37’s livery is striking, with a vibrant papaya orange and blue color scheme, paying homage to McLaren’s historic racing colors. The racer is adorned with logos from various sponsors, adding to its authentic racing look.

Design Elements

Real Car: McLaren MCL37

  • Aerodynamics: The MCL37 is designed to slice through the air smoothly with its sleek body, detailed front and rear wings, and special side pods. The front wing is a masterpiece of design, featuring multiple elements that manage airflow around the car, maintaining stability and enhancing grip. The rear wing is equally complex, designed to increase downforce and keep the car stable at high speeds. The side pods are sculpted to channel air efficiently, cooling the engine and other components while reducing drag.

2023 McLaren MCL37

  • Power Unit:  The car’s hybrid engine combines a V6 turbo engine with an energy recovery system, giving it an awesome mix of power and efficiency. This system allows the car to recover energy during braking and redeploy it for extra power, giving the MCL37 a competitive edge on the track.
  • Materials: It’s made with lots of carbon fiber, which is super strong but very light. This material is crucial for both the car’s performance and safety, as it allows the car to be both fast and durable.

  • Safety: The Halo device around the cockpit is a big safety feature, protecting the driver from crashes. This titanium structure can withstand huge impacts, ensuring the driver’s safety in the event of an accident.
  • Livery: The MCL37’s livery is iconic, featuring the vibrant papaya orange and blue colors that are synonymous with McLaren. The car is also covered in sponsor logos, adding to its authentic look and feel.

LEGO Model: McLaren MCL37

  • Aerodynamics: The LEGO version does a great job capturing the sleek look of the real car, with detailed wings and a streamlined shape. The front wing is simplified but still includes elements that mimic the real car’s design. The rear wing is faithfully reproduced, adding to the model’s realistic appearance. The side pods are represented with angled pieces that suggest the aerodynamic shaping of the real car.

  • Power Unit: While it doesn’t have a real engine, the LEGO model mimics the look of the MCL37’s engine housing and exhausts. The rear section of the model is designed to resemble the car’s power unit, with detailed exhausts and a compact, streamlined appearance.

  • Materials: The MCL37 is built from LEGO bricks, using special pieces to capture the car’s design. Unique LEGO elements create the distinctive shapes and lines of the model, ensuring it is both fun to build and accurate.
  • Safety: The LEGO model includes even the Halo device, keeping it true to the real car. This piece adds an extra layer of realism to the model and highlights LEGO’s attention to detail.

  • Livery: The LEGO model features stickers to replicate the MCL37’s iconic livery. The bright papaya, orange, and blue colors are captured beautifully, and the sponsor logos are included to enhance the model’s authenticity.

Realism Analysis

The LEGO McLaren MCL37 looks a lot like the real thing. It nails the overall shape and design, with key features like the aerodynamic bodywork and unique paint job. The model captures the essence of the car’s sleek design, making it instantly recognizable.

For a LEGO model, it’s got impressive details. Stickers add the logos and sponsor names, making it look authentic. The Halo device is also there, showing LEGO’s attention to important features. Some tiny details are simplified, but it’s still pretty accurate. The use of unique LEGO pieces to replicate the car’s intricate design elements is particularly noteworthy.

Playability vs. Display:

The LEGO model is both fun to play with and cool to display. It’s sturdy enough for some racing action and detailed enough to look great on a shelf. The special pieces and design make it realistic while keeping the building and playing experience enjoyable. Whether you’re racing it around your living room or showcasing it on your desk, this LEGO set offers a perfect blend of playability and display value.

So, what do you think? Did LEGO do a good job? For me, my 14-year-old daughter absolutely loves F1. She’s totally obsessed with it! This LEGO McLaren MCL37 set is definitely something I’ll get for her on a special occasion. It’s a fantastic way to bring the excitement of Formula 1 racing into your home, whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart. Get ready to rev up your imagination and build your own piece of racing history with LEGO!

2023 McLaren MCL37

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This genius LEGO Card Shuffler can automatically shuffle any deck of cards https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/23/this-genius-lego-card-shuffler-can-automatically-shuffle-any-deck-of-cards/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-genius-lego-card-shuffler-can-automatically-shuffle-any-deck-of-cards Sun, 23 Jun 2024 19:15:29 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=495974

This genius LEGO Card Shuffler can automatically shuffle any deck of cards

The most annoying part of any card game is obviously the shuffling (unless you’re good at it). It seems like a laborious activity that almost...
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The most annoying part of any card game is obviously the shuffling (unless you’re good at it). It seems like a laborious activity that almost always causes one or two stray cards to fly out and fall on the floor… and even after shuffling your cards, someone is bound to tell you that you did a terrible job because they got a dealt a bad hand. I’ve ruined many a deck shuffling cards that eventually got bent out of shape, and I’ve always thought of what life would be like if I had a machine that shuffled my cards for me. Turns out, Pedro Lara went and built himself one instead of buying it online. The LEGO Ornate Card Shuffler is a pretty nifty-looking functional shuffler that uses a combination of gears to accurately shuffle a deck with surprising consistency.

Designer: Pedro Lara

Although Lara doesn’t specify how many bricks were used to build the card shuffler, it’s worth admiring how the overall contraption is both functional and classy. The word ornate isn’t thrown in for nothing – the ‘black box’ has a variety of golden trims that add an aesthetic touch to the contraption. Two chambers on the left and right hold both halves of the deck, and once the shuffler gets to work, the cards are shuffled into a central deck, which can be pulled out thanks to a removable drawer.

The card shuffler utilizes LEGO Technic gears that connect both left and right chambers. The uppermost cards are pulled using friction from rubber tires. For people familiar with card games, the machine uses a variation of what’s called the Riffle Shuffle, which alternates the cards from the left and right, breaking any patterns within the existing deck. While Lara’s original design works with a LEGO electric motor, it can also be operated manually with a lever. The gear mechanism provides significant leverage, making manual shuffling a fun and efficient option.

A close look at the gear system under the hood of the LEGO Ornate Shuffler

Pedro Lara’s self-made design or MOC (My Own Creation) can be found on the LEGO Ideas Forum, an online dashboard where LEGO enthusiasts upload their own zany designs and have the community vote for their favorite creations. With just under 2000 votes, Lara’s design seems to be picking up traction and has even received a Staff Pick recommendation from the LEGO team. You can cast your vote for the LEGO Ornate Card Shuffler on the LEGO Ideas forum, and if it reaches the coveted 10,000 vote mark, it might just turn into an available retail box set!

The removable drawer that collects the cards after they’re shuffled.

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AI-based LEGO printer turns any subject into replicated pixel art https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/20/ai-based-lego-printer-turns-any-subject-into-replicated-pixel-art/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ai-based-lego-printer-turns-any-subject-into-replicated-pixel-art Thu, 20 Jun 2024 20:45:26 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=495728

AI-based LEGO printer turns any subject into replicated pixel art

Just when everyone is leveraging the power of artificial intelligence (AI), why should avid LEGO fans not dig a share in the pie? Dutch creator,...
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Just when everyone is leveraging the power of artificial intelligence (AI), why should avid LEGO fans not dig a share in the pie? Dutch creator, YouTuber, and master brick builder Sten, thought of the obvious and set out to harness the power of AI and built a printing machine entirely from LEGOs that can print any subject into identical pixel art.
The entire building process, along with a demo pixel art made from LEGO pieces, has been documented by Sten on his YouTube channel, Creative Mindstorms. The Pixelbot 3000, as the LEGO printer is called, Sten informs, is ‘capable of creating pixel art of anything using AI.’

Designer: Creative Mindstorms

The Pixelbot 3000 is programmed in Python using help from DALL-E from OpenAI. Sten has managed to program, and create software-hardware integration, in such a manner that you simply ‘type a subject line, hit start’ and the printer takes on from there.

Sten informs, in the video, that he started with inspiration from LEGO printers such as Briccasso, but over time had to improvise a great deal – both with the code customization and the machine functionality – to achieve what he set out to build. He initially used 16 x 16 base plates to print the developed pixel art, but it was later changed to a 32 x 32 grid for better result output.

The basic operation of Sten’s LEGO machine is similar to that of a pick-and-place machine, which has been precisely programmed and created to place large-size LEGO pieces with surprising accuracy on the 32 x 32 grid base plate. Moreover, the machine is designed to pick colors – according to the picture’s demand – and place brick-by-brick to achieve the identical pixel art of an AI image generated. Since LEGO brick colors are limited, Creative Mindstorms reduced its machine’s color palette to 15 base colors including a white background.

The machine does not at any point rely on designing the art or scanning it. It instead uses AI to generate pixel art (using LEGOs) of the image generated in the software. The user can preview the generated image, crop and color grade it, before saving it for printing. When commanded for print, the image is divided into 32 x 32 grid, color and center of each pixel on the base plate is sampled, and the pixel art is then built piece by piece. In the testing, Sten asked AI to create a ‘quirky robot holding a sunflower,’ you can check out how it came out in the video above.

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LEGO Botanical series to get upgraded with vibrant Chrysanthemum and Plum Blossom brick sets https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/19/lego-botanical-series-to-get-upgraded-with-vibrant-chrysanthemum-and-plum-blossom-brick-sets/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lego-botanical-series-to-get-upgraded-with-vibrant-chrysanthemum-and-plum-blossom-brick-sets Wed, 19 Jun 2024 17:20:09 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=495640

LEGO Botanical series to get upgraded with vibrant Chrysanthemum and Plum Blossom brick sets

It’s difficult to imagine that 92 years ago, when the LEGO brick was first introduced to the world, that the humble piece of plastic would...
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It’s difficult to imagine that 92 years ago, when the LEGO brick was first introduced to the world, that the humble piece of plastic would transform into such a versatile element of creativity. Whether it’s used to make replicas of objects, actual functioning products, or even scaled-down versions of cars and monuments, LEGO bricks have evolved WELL beyond the simple cuboid-shaped simple-colored pieces that they used to be decades ago. Heck, we’ve even managed to turn the bricks into a flourishing movie franchise!

I digress, but this is just to preface the fact that LEGO is planning on expanding its already popular Botanical collection with newer pieces that bring nature’s grand diversity to your homes. Although not officially announced by LEGO, sleuths on the internet have found images for two new additions to the Botanical collection – a Chrysanthemum plant and a Plum Blossom plant. Vibrant in color, with a beautiful balance between abstract and biophilic, these plants are a gorgeous addition to homes. They come with their own stands that let you place them on coffee tables, credenzas, or even bookshelves, adding a touch of undying plant beauty to your space. No green thumb required!

Designer: LEGO
(Low-res images upscaled using AI)

The first set, 10638 Chrysanthemum, is a delightful recreation of the vibrant flower. Despite being the smaller of the two sets at just 278 pieces, the Chrysanthemum stands tall at 26cm, making a striking display piece. Housed in a decorative pot on a stand, the set offers a surprisingly affordable entry point to the Botanical Collection at €28.95 (price and release date based on European retailer listings). LEGO enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of the classic banana brick, reimagined here in three colors.

The second set, 10369 Plum Blossom, boasts a larger build with 327 pieces. This elegant flower reaches a height of 34cm and comes in a similar pot and stand as the Chrysanthemum, allowing for a beautiful paired display. The Plum Blossom also showcases some clever part usage, with the “Angry Birds crown” element finding a new life as part of the flower’s structure. Both sets are scheduled for release on August 1, 2024.

Specific details regarding difficulty level are unavailable yet, but judging from the piece count, these sets are likely geared towards adult hobbyists or experienced LEGO builders. The completed flowers will likely rest comfortably on desks, shelves, or windowsills, adding a touch of botanical charm to your décor.

Eagle-eyed LEGO fans might have noticed hints of a potential third set in the works. The listing image appears to show two additional plants nestled amongst the Chrysanthemum and Plum Blossom: bamboo and what seems to be an orchid. While there’s currently no official confirmation, it adds a touch of intrigue to the summer Botanical Collection release.

The post LEGO Botanical series to get upgraded with vibrant Chrysanthemum and Plum Blossom brick sets first appeared on Yanko Design.

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LEGO Downton Abbey Set comes with detailed Minifigure cast and replica of Highclere Castle https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/13/lego-downton-abbey-set-comes-with-detailed-minifigure-cast-and-replica-of-highclere-castle/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lego-downton-abbey-set-comes-with-detailed-minifigure-cast-and-replica-of-highclere-castle Thu, 13 Jun 2024 20:45:42 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=494661

LEGO Downton Abbey Set comes with detailed Minifigure cast and replica of Highclere Castle

Just in time to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary next year, LEGO builder BRO3 decided to pay homage to historical drama series Downton Abbey with...
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Just in time to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary next year, LEGO builder BRO3 decided to pay homage to historical drama series Downton Abbey with a dedicated LEGO set. The LEGO Ideas Downton Abbey set comes with an incredibly detailed build of the old Highclere Castle, along with all its occupants from the vast Crawley family to the butlers and castle caretakers who make up the cast of the show. The detailed model comes with multiple rooms, up to 15 minifigures (16 if you include the dog Pharoah), and even Lady Mary’s bench – an iconic part of the series!

Designer: BRO3

Although LEGO builder BRO3 doesn’t mention how many bricks make up the Highclere castle, it’s an impressively detailed piece of work, capturing the Jacobean architectural style that made its appearance during the Victorian periods. The castle exists even today, although the series depicts a fictional setup featuring the influential Crawley family. The front facade is remarkably intricate, with the grand entrance that opens to let the characters in.

Flip the castle over and you’re treated to 5 main rooms and 6 mini rooms that your characters can sit in. The main rooms include the Dining room, Kitchen, Lady Mary’s room, Guest room, and the Servants’ quarters. The smaller rooms located in the towers include Carson’s office, along with 5 other empty rooms that you can use to store minifigures that aren’t in use.

The 15 minifigures include the usual suspects of the series, from the 7 members of the Crawley family and Tom Branson (Lady Sybil’s husband), to the 7 staff members of the castle, including butlers, cooks, housekeepers, and the valet.

Lady Mary’s bench also gets its own mini build, paying tribute to the bench that has been a staple to many conversations, sage pieces of advice, and even brewing relationships! “I wanted to breathe the spirit of the place into the model, so I chose a heart-shaped plate and decorative bench handles,” says BRO3.

The LEGO Downton Abbey set is currently a fan-made submission on the LEGO Ideas website – a forum for LEGO builders to create their own unique builds and vote for their favorites. With 2,000 supporters, this MOC (My Own Creation) is slowly picking up traction, and if it hits the coveted 10,000 vote mark, LEGO’s internal team will review it with the possibility of also turning it into a box set! If you want to own your own replica of Highclere Castle and its residents, vote for the submission on the LEGO Ideas website here!

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This LEGO Apple Store turns the company’s retail space into an adorably detailed brick diorama https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/10/this-lego-apple-store-turns-the-companys-retail-space-into-an-adorably-detailed-brick-diorama/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-lego-apple-store-turns-the-companys-retail-space-into-an-adorably-detailed-brick-diorama Mon, 10 Jun 2024 19:15:27 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=493042

This LEGO Apple Store turns the company’s retail space into an adorably detailed brick diorama

Complete with a massive white Apple logo on the front, glass facades, minimal interiors, a Genius Bar, and even tiny Apple products arranged across the...
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Complete with a massive white Apple logo on the front, glass facades, minimal interiors, a Genius Bar, and even tiny Apple products arranged across the display counters, this LEGO version of the Apple Store captures the minimal grandeur of the Cupertino tech company’s retail spaces. The brand may be well known for their cutting-edge products, but are masters of crafting awe-striking experience centers too. Built by seasoned brick expert ‘legotruman’ in collaboration with 2A2A, the LEGO Apple Store is a 1539-brick marvel that does true justice to its original. It comes with white interiors, glass facades, landscaping, eye-catching details, and enough easter eggs and products to keep a fan-boy entertained (from the iconic iMac G3 of the Steve Jobs era, to even the Vision Pro, which completes its 1st anniversary today!)

Designers: legotruman & 2A2A

The LEGO Apple Store is a two-storey marvel featuring all of the company’s greatest product launches under one single roof. “Both the Apple brand and LEGO celebrates beauty and creativity, the principles and image of the two brands are a great match,” designer legotruman rightfully says. The final model isn’t based on any specific retail outlet, but rather is an amalgamation of multiple outlets’ core design philosophies. The result is something that seems familiar, with floor-to-ceiling glass panels that let you see inside the store, a white Apple logo on the front that lets people know it’s an Apple Store, and minimal interiors that let the products, posters, and display units stand out and grab eyeballs.

The design features a removable top as well as a removable front facade, letting you access the minifigures and pieces inside to arrange them how you see fit. The LEGO Apple Store comes with Geniuses in blue shirts as well as customers, creating a vibrant atmosphere inside the outlet. Multiple counters have all of Apple’s products from iMacs and MacBooks to iPhones. Look to the wall and you’ll see boxes of Apple products waiting to be sold, and AirPods Max headphones arranged decoratively to attract people.

Every part of the store’s design has something to show. The front offers a glimpse into the store, while the top features a massive black Apple Logo. On the left, a staircase guides minifigures to the upper level (where the Genius Bar is usually located), while the right has ficus trees as seen in many Apple stores. Flip over to the back and you’ve got a hidden hatch where legotruman put a few other Apple products on display, capturing the company’s history over the past twenty-five years. You’ve got an iMac G3, and iPod Classic, AirPods, an Apple Watch, and a Vision Pro, all designed out of LEGO bricks and arranged on a horizontal platform at the back of the LEGO build.

The inside of the store feels unmistakably Apple-like. Every detail brings back memories of actual stores, from the long tables with products on them, to the colorful posters and wall-art that are a signature element of Apple’s retail spaces. You’ll see all sorts of easter eggs around the build, keeping you entertained and constantly engrossed. Like every LEGO build, you do have the ability to customize the space too, moving stuff around and even adding new elements to the store.

legotruman and 2A2A’s MOC (My Own Creation) maxes out at an impressive 1539 bricks, making it a relatively complex build. The entire kit, when complete, measures 16.1-inches wide, 10.1 inches deep, and 6 inches tall. legotruman mentions that you can add this build to your LEGO city, bringing an iconic landmark to your brick-based neighborhood.

The LEGO Apple Store is currently a submission on the LEGO Ideas forum, an open space for creators to submit their own brick-builds. The community then votes for their favorite creations, following which the LEGO internal team reviews the submission before turning it into a buyable box-set. This particular fan-made creation currently stands at an impressive 4,730 votes, and if you want to vote for it too, just head down to the LEGO Ideas website and cast your vote!

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10 Best LEGO Sets for Adults: Creative Projects to Build at Home https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/09/10-best-lego-sets-for-adults-creative-projects-to-build-at-home/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=10-best-lego-sets-for-adults-creative-projects-to-build-at-home Sun, 09 Jun 2024 11:40:14 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=493387

10 Best LEGO Sets for Adults: Creative Projects to Build at Home

Constructing and putting together precise and intricate LEGO structures as a child was one of my favorite hobbies, and to be honest even now. I...
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Constructing and putting together precise and intricate LEGO structures as a child was one of my favorite hobbies, and to be honest even now. I could spend hours sitting and creating the little builds, and I still hold those memories dear to my heart. I’m sure most of us have nostalgic and heartwarming memories associated with LEGO blocks from our childhood, as well as the not-so-heartwarming ones of stepping on them with our feet and feeling an insane amount of pain shoot up our legs. But nowadays LEGO is no longer considered child’s play. Master builders and LEGO enthusiasts all over the world have been creating impressive LEGO builds, and we’ve curated a few of our favorites for you!

1. Brooklyn 99 LEGO Build

I love Brooklyn 99, it is one of my favorite TV shows, and it has the capability to put a smile on my face anytime. LEGO creator Ben Fankhauser immortalized this amazing show with his lovely LEGO build which captures the 99th precinct – all rooms and characters included. The set is quite detailed and intricate, and it includes loads of details – from the bullpen to the captain’s office, and the printer room too. Secret details such as Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were included too.

2. LEGO Zelda

LEGO unveiled a Zelda-themed playset, and it captures the Great Deku Tree in a fascinating 2-in-1 build. The playset lets you build a variant of the tree in its early stages, or even in full bloom as seen in the 2017 game – Breath of The Wild. This set also has a bunch of familiar characters like Zelda, Link, and more! Consisting of 2500 pieces, the Great Deku Tree provides an interesting 2-in-1 build experience, letting you build the iconic tree.

3. LEGO Tetris SOLID

Say hello to the LEGO version of Tetris Solid. LEGO builder ‘victorvey300’ paid tribute to Tetris on its 40th anniversary by building a LEGO Ideas set. It includes a box with a lid that serves as the game’s screen. Bricks are placed in a container below, and the controls are located on the bottom right. The top right functions as the leaderboard. Once the box is closed shut, the bricks don’t get lost, they’re safely placed within.

4. LEGO Yamaha MT-10 SP

You can now build a LEGO Yamaha MT-10 SP and have a roaring LEGO automotive. You need to put it together with the same attention to detail as all Technic creations. Putting together the build piece by piece brings an extreme sense of satisfaction. It features realistic function, movement of chain drive, 3-speed transmission, 4-cylinder engine, working steering, and front and rear suspension.

5. LEGO Barad-dûr

Lord of the Ring fans should rejoice as LEGO has recently released a LEGO set themed on Barad-dûr – which is Sauron’s iconic stronghold. The set contains 5471 pieces, and it includes the tower with the Eye of Sauron topped on it. This sinister eye keeps a lookout on his domain. The tower features four main sections – a prison, a throne room, a kitchen, and an armory. If you’re lucky enough to get the set before 7, you also get a complementary 269-piece Fell beast with wings.

6. LEGO Icons Retro Radio Set

Meet the LEGO Icons Retro Radio set! It is a 906-piece set, which celebrates the iconic musical era of the 50s and 60s. The LEGO set features bright color accents in white and brown. It stands tall at 13 inches, 9 inches wide, and 2.5 inches deep, making it an impressive LEGO build. It is amped with nostalgic faux wood-colored trims, a pretty pastel bluish-green exterior, speaker slits, a tuner window, and an extendable antenna.

7. LEGO AMG 63 G-Wagon SUV & AMG SL63 Convertible Roadster

 

Mercedez and LEGO have teamed up to create the LEGO version of two acclaimed cars – the AMG 63 G-Wagon SUV and the AMG SL63 convertible roadster. The performance cars are available in a kit with 2 driver minifigures, and the sets are a part of the LEGO Speed Champions line. The 2 cars combined together are made up of 808 pieces, with the G wagon featuring a black color, and the SL 63 Roadster a yellow. They showcase authentic design details captured from real-life models.

8. LEGO Motorized Beating Heart

LEGO builder Anatomical_Brick’s ‘Motorized Beating Heart’ is designed to be a near-perfect replica of an actual beating heart! It outputs 55 bpm and is made entirely from LEGO bricks and is powered by replaceable batteries. The model includes a LEGO Technic frame with two interlocking slider mechanisms and a scissor element. It is an ingenious design that supports dynamic adjustments to the height and width of the structure.

9. LEGO Milky Way Galaxy

Say hello to the LEGO Milky Way Galaxy. This galactic hot mess of plastic includes 3000 bricks, which are joined together to create a mesmerizing art piece. As stunning as the final build is, it is also equally complicated to make. The different pieces are color-coordinated, and they are merged together to build the different bands of the galaxy. The set also includes a ‘You Are Here’ tag which pinpoints the general location of our solar system, and us.

10. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964)

Meet The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964). It is designed to be one of the first Jurassic World sets created for museum-like display. The set includes 577 pieces and contains an intriguing T.Rex skull with an opening jaw, as well as a stand to showcase it. The Jurassic World set also contains an info plaque, a fossilized footprint, and an amber piece at the back, making it a LEGO set worthy of an impressive display.

The post 10 Best LEGO Sets for Adults: Creative Projects to Build at Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

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LEGO Unveils 1506-piece Lamborghini Countach Replica with Detailed V12 Engine https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/07/lego-unveils-1506-piece-lamborghini-countach-replica-with-detailed-v12-engine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lego-unveils-1506-piece-lamborghini-countach-replica-with-detailed-v12-engine Fri, 07 Jun 2024 20:45:18 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=493639

LEGO Unveils 1506-piece Lamborghini Countach Replica with Detailed V12 Engine

Sure, you may not be able to afford the real deal, but LEGO’s replica of the Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole ensures it’s as close to...
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Sure, you may not be able to afford the real deal, but LEGO’s replica of the Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole ensures it’s as close to the original as possible. Detailed down to sheer perfection, this 1506-piece LEGO build comes with scissor doors, a massive rear spoiler, an openable hood, and a boot that you can lift up to see a proportionally accurate V12 engine inside the car. A detailed cockpit, deep-dish rims, expansive taillights, and a sleek rear spoiler all contribute to the car’s undeniable authenticity, making it a captivating display piece that will be a standout in any home or office. If Marcello Gandini were alive, he’d love this tiny brick-based homage.

Designer: LEGO

The 1,506-piece set meticulously captures the essence of the legendary 1980s supercar. From the sleek, wedge-shaped design to the signature scissor doors, every detail is faithfully recreated using LEGO bricks. The model boasts a wealth of realistic features, including a working steering wheel, opening trunk and hood, and a meticulously crafted V12 engine. Deep-dish rims, a large rear spoiler, and the instantly recognizable taillights complete the authentic look.

This LEGO Lamborghini Countach is more than just a display model. Builders can explore the intricate inner workings of the car thanks to the opening features. The detailed engine compartment allows for a closer look at the powerful V12 engine, a feat of engineering ingenuity replicated in LEGO form.

The finished model measures over 3.5 inches high, 13 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide, making it a substantial and impressive centerpiece for any home or office. The set also includes digital building instructions accessible through the LEGO Builder app, providing an interactive and alternative way to follow the construction process.

The LEGO V12 Engine is visible once you lift the trunk up

The LEGO Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole starts at $179.99, and is coming to the LEGO online store as well as everywhere else on the 4th of July this year.

The post LEGO Unveils 1506-piece Lamborghini Countach Replica with Detailed V12 Engine first appeared on Yanko Design.

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