Think Like an Architect: A Family LEGO Design Workshop

What if your first architecture studio started with LEGO bricks?

Join local LEGO artist Richard Paules at the American Institute of Architects’ Global Campus of Architecture and Design for a fun, family-friendly building workshop that brings the principles of architecture and engineering to life — one brick at a time.

We recommend this LEGO workshop for children aged 6+ but contact us if you have any questions.

Known for his intricate LEGO models of historic landmarks, soaring towers, airports, churches, and other icons of the built environment, Richard will demonstrate how fundamental design concepts — structure, scale, balance, symmetry, and problem-solving — show up in LEGO form. You’ll see how simple bricks can become complex structures through thoughtful planning and creative engineering.

Participants will put these ideas into action, designing and building their own LEGO creations with guidance and encouragement along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring young architect, a curious builder, or a parent who still loves snapping bricks together, this workshop is designed to spark imagination across generations.

All materials (and snacks!) are provided — and builders get to take their creations home.

Come build, experiment, and discover how big architectural ideas can begin with a single brick.

Advanced registration is required. Admission is priced per family/group (of up to 5 people) rather than per individual. Each ticket includes all materials for one collaborative LEGO creation — so your crew can work together to design and build a structure to take home.

It's the perfect time to explore the AIA Global Campus for Architecture and Design because it's Architecture Week! View our full line-up of family-friendly programs: Architecture Week | AIA

Your Instructor: Richard Paules

Richard Paules is a Washington DC native who grew up surrounded by monumental architecture and has built that into a career recreating many of DC and the nations monuments in LEGO. From his first major commission for the Kennedy Center he has since completed models for Dulles and Reagan National airports, the DC City Council and the rejuvenated American Institute of Architecture Headquarters.

Your Host: American Institute of Architect's Global Campus of Architecture and Design

Located in Washington, D.C.—steps from the White House and National Mall—the AIA Global Campus for Architecture & Design is a living model of sustainable innovation, historic preservation, and future-focused design. AIA’s pioneering net-zero headquarters building anchors a campus that includes The Octagon Museum, an outdoor courtyard, the AIA Design Shop, and Grace Street Coffee Roasters.

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Host or Publisher The American Institute of Architects