Have you ever wondered where the name “LEGO” comes from? The familiar, colorful bricks that encourage creativity and hands-on play have a history rooted in craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Behind the simple name is a story that reflects dedication, imagination, and a long-term vision that began in a small town and gradually reached homes around the world.
The story starts in 1932 in Billund, Denmark, where carpenter Ole Kirk Kristiansen began producing wooden toys. His focus was on creating well-made products that encouraged learning through play. Even during challenging economic times, he believed that quality and care mattered. A few years later, he chose the name “LEGO,” derived from the Danish phrase “leg godt,” meaning “play well,” a concept that reflected his philosophy and goals.
In the late 1940s, the company began experimenting with plastic, a significant shift from traditional materials. This decision opened new possibilities for toy design and play. Ole’s son, Godtfred, played a key role in developing the idea of interlocking building pieces. Early plastic bricks introduced a new way for children to build and rebuild freely, laying the groundwork for a creative system that encouraged exploration and imagination.
By 1958, the interlocking brick design was refined into the system still used today, strong enough to hold together yet flexible enough for endless variation. This innovation reshaped play by promoting problem-solving, creativity, and storytelling. Over time, the LEGO name has come to represent more than just toys—it stands for imagination, learning, and the idea that simple designs can lead to extraordinary possibilities.