They may be called nerds or geeks, but there’s a more fitting term for adult LEGO collectors – AFOLs, which stands for Adult Fans of LEGO. These AFOLs are not just collectors but also builders, and anyone with a deep-seated passion for the LEGO brick. This shared passion creates a strong sense of community among adult LEGO collectors.
During the pandemic, Peter Mazzoni embarked on a new hobby. “I used to love building models. When I was younger, that’s what we would do. But I always disliked the smell of the glue. Then my son suggested, ‘Why don’t you try LEGOs?’ And that’s when I got hooked. I built the Colosseum, R2-D2, Millennium Falcon, and the shuttle.”
His journey is a testament to the universal appeal of LEGO, regardless of age.
Mazzoni has built a Village out of LEGOs, with a LEGO train, The Orient Express, for the village inhabitants.
Mazzoni said, “I added the lighting to the LEGO village. The buildings needed the lights, and I found I could get what I needed online at www.lightmybricks.com. It made it a big difference.”
Mazzoni’s latest buildings include Notre Dame, the Titanic, and a castle.
“My granddaughter, who is five, loves playing with the castle. The castle has 4837 bricks, is 32 inches high, and is 13 inches deep,” he said.
Mazzoni’s favorite is the RMS Titanic.
“The model scale is 1:200. It is 53 inches long, 105 inches high, and 6 inches wide. It has over 9000 pieces,” he said.
Mazoni’s latest creation, Notre Dame.
The LEGO model has authentically detailed views. It is divided into three sections to showcase the impressive interiors. The model has a grand staircase, boiler room, smoking lounge, the ship’s bridge, promenade deck, and swimming pool.
Mazzoni said, “I just finished Notre Dame. Just in time for the Paris Olympics and the cathedrals re-opening after the fire.”
Mazzoni said, “The cathedral has over 4300 pieces and measures over 13 inches high, 8.5 inches 22 wide and 16 inches deep.”
The model has the curved rear of the building, bell towers, rose windows, and the central spire surrounded by statues. There is a LEGO nameplate to complete a spectacular display model of Notre Dame. The roof can be removed to see the interior columns and arches, and the towers can be lifted off to take a closer look inside.
Adults are discovering or rediscovering LEGO and realizing it isn’t a toy. The hobby requires mental focus and an escape from everyday stresses. Lego sets designed for kids have a playable aspect, with a minifigure that the child can play with. For adults, the focus is on personal interests. You start with a pile of random bricks and end up with something incredible.
