[April Fool's] Introducing 18+ Duplo: Design
Posted by Huw,
LEGO has announced another addition to the 18+ range:
Explore the building blocks of life: the LEGO Group brings the DUPLO construction experience to adult builders
Brand new LEGO DUPLO: Design products provide an unprecedented opportunity for adults to embrace their passions and create spectacular sculptures. Crafted by Danish artisans, the exclusive DUPLO: Design collection offers innovative interpretations of familiar concepts, appealing to the most discerning and imaginative LEGO fans.
Adopting the enhanced scale of DUPLO bricks allows DUPLO: Design to provide ephemeral building experiences, employing traditional abstraction techniques to capture each subject. These elegant models are perfect for busy adults who wish to reignite an existing passion, or those seeking to explore new hobbies and interests.
Peter Ousthisen, President of Create at the LEGO Group, commented: "The LEGO Group has already revolutionised relaxation with an incredible selection of adult-oriented products which provide mindful construction experiences to passionate creators. We believe this experiential development can continue with the contemporary DUPLO: Design collection.
"Following several months of artistic experimentation and research, we discovered that 61% of adults struggle to find time for creativity while 46% take inspiration from the natural world and mathematics¹. This research informed the development of Globe and Geometric, juxtaposing evanescent building experiences with the representation of two beloved passion points."
DUPLO: Design enables unique self-expression, requiring minimal construction experience while retaining the imaginative design language which distinguishes LEGO products. LEGO DUPLO: Design Globe (10990) and LEGO DUPLO: Design Geometric (10991) will be available exclusively from LEGO Brand Retail Stores and LEGO.com from 1st August.
10990 Globe
US $29.99 – CA $39.99 – DE €29.99 – UK £27.99 – FR €34.99 – AU $79.99 – DK 270DKK
Recreate the majesty of planet Earth with Globe
Our wonderful planet has inspired countless artworks and this LEGO DUPLO: Design Globe (10990) set features an original representation of the Earth, combining 2 DUPLO bricks which have been carefully chosen to provide the ultimate Globe experience. Whether you're treating yourself or surprising a loved one, this globe model building kit lets you unplug and assemble something spectacular.
Mindfulness essence
Discover the story behind this sculpture in the 117-page instruction manual, before embarking upon your construction odyssey. Once it's complete, you can display the finished creation with pride, providing continued inspiration for years to come and encapsulating the Earth's splendor.
- Revel in your passion for the natural world while constructing the LEGO DUPLO: Design Globe (10990) set, coming to understand the wonder of our planet.
- Indulge your creativity with a 2-piece LEGO set that contains two rectilinear DUPLO bricks, featuring vibrant colours.
- Personalise your sculpture by meticulously adjusting the position of each DUPLO brick.
- Immerse yourself in the sounds of planet Earth with the exclusive 24-second Soundtrack.
- This special art piece measures over 2" (6cm) wide. It displays wonderfully on any shelf and stands out within a LEGO collection.
- Perfect for display, DUPLO: Design models offer a stress-relieving, immersive build with LEGO pieces and an enjoyable Soundtrack. Escape your daily routine and assemble an extraordinary artwork.
- LEGO building pieces meet exacting quality standards, which ensures they are consistent, compatible and work every time – it’s been that way since 1958.
- LEGO pieces are tested to ensure that every DUPLO: Design building set meets strict safety standards, making this Globe sculpture as robust as it is magnificent.
10991 Geometric
US $29.99 – CA $39.99 – DE €29.99 – UK £27.99 – FR €34.99 – AU $79.99 – DK 270DKK
Capture the spirit of engineering with Geometric
Engineers and lovers of mathematics will be thrilled as they assemble LEGO DUPLO: Design Geometric (10991), beautifully capturing the marvellous simplicity of geometry. Two red DUPLO bricks are included, reflecting the iconic status of these assets to the LEGO Group's artistic palette. You can discover the origin of this icon and follow the rigorous design process through the 128-page, coffee-table-quality instruction manual.
Engineering triumph
Following extensive consideration of every possible method to connect 2 DUPLO bricks, this classic formulation was chosen based upon its inherent symbolism. The sculpture exemplifies the famed cantilever structural element which has proven influential throughout the long history of human building projects. This design represents the culmination of that shared experience.
- Explore the engineering principles which are fundamental to creative projects with LEGO DUPLO: Design Geometric (10991).
- Embrace your passion with a 2-piece LEGO set that includes two rectilinear DUPLO bricks, moulded in an iconic red colour.
- Consider the structural and mathematical implications of changing the positions of these interconnected DUPLO bricks.
- Experience the relaxing sounds of construction machinery during the unique 27-second Soundtrack.
- This special art piece measures over 2" (6cm) wide and 2" (6cm) deep. It looks fantastic anywhere in your home, place of work or wherever you might identify with Geometric.
- Perfect for display, DUPLO: Design models offer a stress-relieving, immersive build with LEGO pieces and an enjoyable Soundtrack. Escape your daily routine and assemble an extraordinary artwork.
- LEGO building pieces meet exacting quality standards, which ensures they are consistent, compatible and work every time – it’s been that way since 1958.
- LEGO pieces are tested to ensure that every DUPLO: Design building set meets strict safety standards, making this Geometric sculpture as robust as it is brutalist.
[1] The LEGO Group Play Good Study 2020
We hope to receive additional images soon.
Given that LEGO has been applying adults-only ratings to pre-school subject matter such as Sesame Street and Winnie the Pooh recently, I guess this is the next logical step.
So, what do you think? Let us know in the comments and answer the poll below.
314 likes
157 comments on this article
I am straight on this!
Finally, something that'll fit on my mantelpiece!
That globe model is great but should probably be flatter for more accuracy.
Definite buy.
On discount though.
April Fools :p
At last I can finally feel comfortable buying DUPLO again!
Oh dear, they've already sold out.
I never thought I'd see the day where the LEGO Group officially pranks us on April 1st.
Best 18+ sets yet. LEGO Art wishes it could be Duplo: Design.
Very elaborate April fools.
I have been waiting so long for this! definitely picking up 10990 on the first day of release. those Price per part ratios look superb. This almost seems too good to be true.
I like the direction they're heading, but I'm going to hold out until they bring back Quatro as 18+ sets.
Price per piece leaves a little to be desired - but if they came with a few more bricks I might be interested.
Finally some Duplo I can buy for myself, without having to pretend it is for the kids!
The globe is pretty awesome!
If this came from Lego marketing department then at least we now know they know how ridiculous recent press announcements and set descriptions have become.
I knew I shouldn't have given away my Duplo all those years ago. I shoud have gotten rid of al my Lego.
I think it really needs stickers to prove it's not for children.
Someone please remind me that today's April fools.
F in the chat for anyone fooled by this
Don’t give them ideas.
President of Create at the LEGO Group? Who's this then?
The real questions I have are:
"What's the price per part?" and "Are the instructions printed on black or another colour?"
"81% of people will buy the sets as soon as it's released"
Me: Seems about right to me:)
I genuinely love the aesthetic of 10990. I don’t know if I can wait for the release of these sets: I might just have to try and build it out of the parts I already own!
I’m so glad they provided alternate build instructions. Really shows off the versatility of these beauties! Day One purchase indeed.
The detail is uncanny. The design revolutionary. Forget the 'ordinary' sets, make hundreds of these sets a year, with piece counts like the colosseum. Everyone could afford that...
Will there be a 15-stage instruction book for these fabulous sets?
"Embrace your passion with a 2-piece LEGO set that includes two rectilinear DUPLO bricks, moulded in an iconic red colour."
This set will definitely offer the best type of building experience to those who love building complex models. I'm in love with this set, undoubtedly the best set released so far this year.
How they manage those round shapes with square bricks will never fail to amaze me. Hope they share the instructions online soon to see how they did it!
WHERE'S THE DESIGNER VIDEO ?
I mean the thought process behind such designs must have been incredible. I want to see the preview sketches.
$29.99 for just 2 bricks. No one mentions this?
2 Bricks if was made out of silver.......
@maffyd said:
"President of Create at the LEGO Group? Who's this then?
The real questions I have are:
"What's the price per part?" and "Are the instructions printed on black or another colour?""
You can see the price per part—it's about £14. And the instructions are in a couple of the photos—looks like black to me!
I still think 75% comments here think this real....how bout 2 real gold bricks at that price....
128-page, coffee-table-quality instruction manual ( 2 bricks ) only way real is your paying book
I think they're way too underpriced given the size. This is a bargain!
A must-have!
Yes! Finally got Press Release Bingo! Just needed "DIY" for blackout.
In all seriousness though, can't wait for these to drop in August, I hope they can come up with miniature GWPs to sweeten the deal, but it might be tough to convincingly recreate these on a smaller scale.
Day one purchase either way.
My only complaint is that the MSRP feels a little low for a premium 18+ product. But given the hype surrounding this launch, hopefully scalpers will drive up prices in the secondary market, giving this product the value that it deserves.
Half Expecting a review of Pork Grinds given current Chauvin-istic Pigs not releasing Crook Dynamite Factory...
Strange, I thought the Ideas Glove was going to be a System set. Still, nice interpretation of the original submission.
Finally! A set to match my building skills.
I was expecting a release date of 32 April 2021
I hope the packaging meets my interior designer's standards, I'd like to put the box art on the wall in my studio.
Very well done. Thanks for cheering the day!
Oh my god. Lego finally makes something that appeals to everyone!
At last! LEGO Duplo for adults! Does this mean we'll finally get some Star Wars themed Duplo targeted at adults too? I hope so ;)
AU $79.99
Good ol' Australia Tax.
Aussie pricing on point! lol
Imagine what one could do with multiples of each! You could make a whole solar system! Let's hope the first batch isn't stuck in the Suez Canal.
lol! The photographs are epic
I just bricklinked the parts! Couldn't wait for August...
@NathanR2015 said:
"Price per piece leaves a little to be desired - but if they came with a few more bricks I might be interested."
They want you to buy more sets ;)
I fell or it at first. Great April fools joke!
this is gold :D
These setsare realy popular. Almost 80% want them.
We already have these!!! Magnificent!
Okay, actually you got me with this one! Having three little children, I'm playing these days more with Lego Duplo than with the "regular" Lego pieces! And now reading the headline: Duplo 18+ ... I was thinking for a second "what a great idea!!!!" :D
Day one purchase for me.
;-)
I think TLG should have priced these at $41.21 and £14.21.
This proves it! Our 2 year old is far ahead of her age!
I need to get insurance for her collection...
I really hope they’ll do our solar system. And maybe the sun with a duplo lightbrick
@Quasar said:
"Someone please remind me that today's April fools. "
sprytose already did, but just in case you missed it, yes, today is 32 March ;~P
Yeah, the new Lego SmartBricks look promising indeed!
https://www.lego.com/de-de/aboutus/news/2021/march/lego-smartbricks-april-fools
I hope @jang does some of his excellent pure build videos for this range.
Beautiful products, amazing price, definite first day buy!!
Bravo!
I own a pre-release of the 10991 Geometric.
It is absolutly stunning!!!
What a great idea. I'll buy all these sets ;-0
Will there be a GWP to coincide with the release of these? Or are we expecting more unforeseen circumstances?
Wow, you really worked hard on this article, great job!!! The thought of "Danish artisans" crafting these masterpieces cracks me up. The product descriptions are so LEGO marketing style and the pictures are superb, really funny and well done :) :) :)
Nicely done! :)
Day 1 purchase! This is what I’ve been waiting for!
Ha ha, brilliant! Nicely done. ;-)
Unfortunately I can't find building instructions :(
I noticed there are some intriquing SNOB construction techniques used...
Love it - well done! The blurb almost makes you believe.. superb effort! Tell you what though, 'The Globe' could easily be an abstract piece in some snooty art gallery...
I'll buy two copies, one I'll build and the other I'll sell once they retire!
Definitely a day one purchase from me!
This certainly looks a strong contender for set of the year, if not all time!
I can't wait to check out that 117 page instruction manual!
128 pages instructions book is the most realistic part of this story...
Hey, they stole my Idea! Typical...
To buy on April 1st only! :-)
Geez Lego, two bricks for 30$?! I mean, I've said PPP is off but that doesn't mean you can just drop prices!
On a more serious note - I would actually like to see Duplo bricks used for Architecture style sets marketed towards adults. Especially good for adults with mobility issues. Duplo is fine, but an adult theme would see duplo bricks in a lot more natural colours such as whites, greys, blacks, tan, etc, rather than the overload of brightly coloured bricks we have marketed toward young children.
The whole "DUPLO for adults" idea is not entirely a joke: There's an expired IDEAS project called "LEGO PLUS+ TAJ MAHAL (FEAT. DUPLO)" that put the concept into a very useful context:
https://ideas.lego.com/projects/7681a03b-8066-4313-9cf2-62ce667c1974
GREAT! - I’ve already added them both to my want list.
The price seems a bit high, so I’ll try to part them out on BrickLink and build them myself.
(It doesn’t look like either set has any unique parts, so parting out should be ok)
Like this one?:
https://ideas.lego.com/projects/7681a03b-8066-4313-9cf2-62ce667c1974
*Looks at calendar*
I almost believed this before I looked at the comments
Set is too complex to build. It should be classified as +45 PhD
This was very well done. I appreciate jokes that are absurd and meant to make you laugh as opposed to those that are somewhat believable and meant to trick you.
The designers have captured complexity and simplicity within these pieces; they represent all that humanity strives for, and what we can only hope to achieve within the confines of our mortality.
I was hoping for six bricks with the Geometric akin to the LEGO House set, but I'll survive. Might buy two extra to make it proper on the 31st of April. :P
Will there be interviews with the designers? The design philosophy is spectacular.
@BrickTeller said:
"I like the direction they're heading, but I'm going to hold out until they bring back Quatro as 18+ sets. "
Lego releases Octo™ an authentic Lego System comprised of Lego cinder blocks to be used as construction materials. Bring the fun and creativity to the construction site!
Look at the overwhelming response to this. Hopefully next year's Technic for infants range continues this success.
As an Adult Fan of Duplo (AFOD), I saw the headline and was hoping for a real product. ??
I don't see any exclusive pieces... I may build my own versions of these!
Love the classic color choices, but do you think any will come out in Star Wars grey?
Aren't these coming in blind boxes? Going to make it a toss-up to collect them all.
If I hadn't gone into Brickset today knowing full well what day it is, you might have caught me out with this at first: I mean, it's not far out of line with some of Lego's other non-standard products over the past couple of years, and the marketing speak is nothing if not realistic xD I admire your dedication to the joke to write all that out!
And thank-you to the whole comments section for giving me a much-needed laugh, too!
I think they are truly captivating sets, but I'm not quite there yet. I'll need to start with some simpler sets first.
My only critique of this line thus far would be that I believe many people under the age of 32 would experience frustration and negative emotions during the building process as they would find it oppressively challenging. Therefore, I don't think Duplo: Design is a good fit with the 18 plus line.
Let me guess: yet another April fools prank. right?
To anyone interested in already obtaining one of these sets before the official release: I'll sell them for only US $ 20 plus shipping each (bricks only)!
These are the best collector-oriented sets in years!
I'm not usually in the market for duplo, but these are kind expensive if you ask me.
These are perfect for that special manbaby in your life.
Bravo, Brickset team. A pitch perfect deconstruction of the cringey 'Adults don't have to be embarrassed to play with LEGO' press releases. The artsy photos are so spot on. This will take some topping next April 1st :)
Ooh lack of inspiration in the April Fool’s department this year...
Round of applause for Huw!
There should be an extra option to the "Will you be buying these sets?" question:
"You silly sod, Huw! ;-)"
;-)
Really nicely done fake marketing release though! Top notch! :-))
@Ultimate_Equinox said:
"I think they are truly captivating sets, but I'm not quite there yet. I'll need to start with some simpler sets first.
My only critique of this line thus far would be that I believe many people under the age of 32 would experience frustration and negative emotions during the building process as they would find it oppressively challenging. Therefore, I don't think Duplo: Design is a good fit with the 18 plus line."
makushima (above) suggests it should be a 45+ with PhD set. I qualify and judging by the pictures, I reckon I can just about manage it and its 117 pages of instructions. If the build experience isn’t overwhelming and if Huw wants, I can even write a review.
That would work lovely next to my 21322 lol
Happy Fools Day!
Minimalists Dream came true.
thanks Lego
Honestly looks pretty good to me. I’d buy it...
LOL LOL LOL
@chris38911 said:
"Will there be a 15-stage instruction book for these fabulous sets?"
I’ve heard they’ll be download only. Hard pass until I can bricklink this.
Good stuff for the morning wake up!
And yet still better than a big wooden Minifig.
Love the article, really nicely done. I worry you may give them ideas!
Great job! I was initially had, and started cracking up when I hit “globe”. ????
Wonderful article on APRIL FOOLS. gosh a lot of people took this literally :)
Surly two april fools is a bit much for one day, you already got me with the space coin being available!
Haha, loved this! So hilarious! I especially love the bit about the soundtracks and instruction manuals, pure genius!
I’m saddened to say I thought they were serious fir a while.
I was thinking what in the world happened to Lego and we thought recent sets were price increased at 14 and 16 cpp.
How about $15 a piece.
Lol great.
This is an April Fool's joke, right? We're not paying $30 for just 2 Duplo bricks?
Hahaahaaa
Did this April Fools joke originate from Brickset or the LEGO company proper? Either way , it is a very well executed joke.
Thanks for this, and all the comments!! Brightened up my day. Too funny, as I recently placed an order on B&P for some DUPLO pieces for myself!!!
The fact I immediately took this seriously says something about how I see the LEGO group and their current attitude towards AFOLS.
I HAVE THESE SETS ALREADY!
I WANT SOMETHING new!
I appreciate all the work that went into creation of this article.
I can always count on Brickset to deliver great Birthday articles for me!
Can’t take time to read the comments. I gotta go cash in my 401k so I can buy as much of this as possible. This is gonna be bigger than tulips, guys!!!!!!!
Disappointing. No exclusive Duplo figs or display base. At least these sets for adult collectors don't have any stickers though.
;P
I probably have the parts to make these in my own collection. I will need to find the instructions though.
A+ for the parody of current Lego press releases!
Please stop giving them ideas!
@Randomness said:
"This is an April Fool's joke, right? We're not paying $30 for just 2 Duplo bricks?"
Its real man
Good one!! Hahahah :) So believable right now...
I wish Lego would stop stealing fan ideas from their Duplo Ideas site and not crediting the creators!
Just added these to my Brickset wish list. Surprised that they are such good value!
Isn't it great that LEGO is exploring its own IP rather than using licensed material? Bad thing is that I've already seen cheap knock-offs of these great sets...
i will only buy if there are black page instructions
April Fools!
There are tears of joy at my house right now! It’s an Easter miracle!
I have just finished my moc inspired by this. A microscale version of Globe, using 2 1x2 plates. It looks amazing even in this reduced scale! I feel I managed to capture the essence of the original!
I already have both!
Can't wait for the next wave.
Ooh! Only 2,000 cents per piece!
I don't like the look of these, too many exposed studs for something that's catering to 18+ collectors / builders.
I wish they would rather stick to themes like Game of Thrones, I was so looking forward to that a few Aprils ago :P
will this set include a Brick Separator?
This is a fantastic new product. Arthritis is a very serious problem and this appears to be a very practical solution for those who still wish to build Lego. And the prices are perfect, as it gives adults a way to blow all their savings without having to travel or contribute to their grandchildren’s college fund. I can definitely see this leading to a lot more reverse mortgages.
WTF. This ridiculous “press release” shows only 1 thing: TOO MUCH SPARE TIME. If this time was used in creating new models, they would be much more intelligent!
@sprytose said:
"April Fools :p "
No question but the prospect of a Duplo 18+ models sounds interesting, I know there are some wicked AFOL who make masterpieces with them.
@Aurium said:
"At last I can finally feel comfortable buying DUPLO again!"
Same! But... what is the point of having DUPLO for adults??????
Why would you want to buy this?!?!?!?! It’s a BIG waste of money. These are basically the same DUPLOs that are made for kids and these DUPLOs for adults don’t even look that different and special then the kid DUPLOs.
Yeah, nice try guys
These are so beautiful that I'm almost tearing up. Really wonderful idea. I'm definetely going to buy one to offer to my grandma now on her 88th birthday. It might be a bit tricky for her to put such a complex model together, but I'll be glad to spend these countless hours helping her out.
This is way too obvious. Try harder next time. Really want to see a super authentic AF article. Maybe another UCS MF that has over 10k pieces to retake the crown as the biggest lego set ever.
I hope someone uses this art to make printable PDF boxes. I have all these sets, and having boxes would be fantastic!
This wins the internet for this April
This was such a cool April Fools joke and you absolutely nailed parodying the LEGO press releases; do wish the globe model was a little more believable. The second one was a fantastic tell by itself though especially justifying its own iconography
XD XD XD