As a LEGO master, I’ve tackled many exciting builds, but Adobe’s custom kit for their virtual event stands out as a unique challenge. This project for Adobe wasn’t just about stacking bricks; it was about capturing a brand’s essence in a fun, interactive experience that would bring people together, even from a distance.
Adobe’s Custom Kit Vision
Adobe approached me with a clear goal: create a custom LEGO kit for their virtual event participants. They wanted something that represented their brand while also being an enjoyable build. The finished product needed to be desk-worthy, serving as a lasting reminder of the event and Adobe itself.
Designing the Adobe LEGO PC
The core concept was a LEGO version of a PC. This presented an interesting challenge: how to recreate computer components using LEGO bricks while keeping the build fun and not overly complex.
I broke down the PC into its key parts:
- Case
- Motherboard
- CPU
- GPU
- Cooling fans
Each element needed to be recognizable yet buildable with LEGO bricks. The motherboard, for instance, became a playground of small pieces representing complex circuitry. The GPU was another interesting component to design, given its importance in modern computing.
One of my favorite features was the transparent panel for the PC case. This allowed the internal components to be visible, adding realism to the build.
From Concept to Kit: The Adobe Building Process
Once the design was finalized, sourcing the right parts took several weeks. We used a lot of standard LEGO bricks, along with specialized pieces like the transparent panel for the case. A variety of tiles were also crucial, providing perfect surfaces for applying decals, especially for the monitor screen.
Overcoming Challenges
The main challenge was creating all the various components that go into a regular PC. Representing complex computer parts in LEGO form required creative problem-solving. It was a fun challenge to tackle, pushing the limits of what can be done with LEGO bricks.
Preparing for the Adobe Virtual Event
With the kits designed and assembled, we faced a new logistical challenge: getting them into the hands of all event attendees before the big day. Adobe took charge of this task, sending out the kits well in advance of the virtual event. This forward-thinking approach ensured that every participant would have their LEGO PC kit ready and waiting when the event began.
The Virtual Build: Bringing the Virtual Event Participants Engaged
On the day of the event, I had the pleasure of hosting the building portion. It was exciting to know that hundreds of people were simultaneously unpacking their kits, ready to embark on this unique building experience together.
As we progressed through the build, I guided participants step-by-step, offering insights into the design process and sharing some of my favorite LEGO building techniques. The virtual format allowed for real-time interaction, with participants asking questions and sharing their progress. It was heartening to see the Adobe community come together over a shared love of creativity and problem-solving – values that align perfectly with both LEGO and Adobe.
Throughout the session, I sprinkled in fun LEGO trivia and building tips. For instance, I explained how to efficiently separate LEGO plates or the best way to apply the custom decals for a smooth finish. These little nuggets of LEGO wisdom not only enhanced the build experience but also gave participants skills they could apply to future LEGO projects.
The Final Product
The model was designed relatively quickly, but sourcing parts and assembling the kits took several weeks. The final build included:
- A mix of standard LEGO bricks
- A transparent panel for the PC case
- Various tiles for decal application
- Custom decals, including the monitor screen
The result was a desktop-sized LEGO PC that showcased Adobe’s brand while providing an engaging building experience.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Model
This Adobe LEGO PC project demonstrates the versatility of LEGO as a medium for brand representation and community building. It merged the digital world of Adobe with the physical world of LEGO, creating a unique, interactive experience for event participants.
As a LEGO master, projects like these remind me why I love what I do – it’s about creating experiences that resonate beyond the bricks themselves. The virtual building event showed how a shared activity, even when done remotely, can foster a sense of connection and community. It was a testament to the power of creativity and play in bringing people together, no matter the distance between them.
