A Bridlington business that began in a spare bedroom during the Covid pandemic has taken another major step forward after expanding into neighbouring premises and creating what is believed to be the UK’s largest designated supplier showroom for Lego-compatible alternative building sets.
Building Block World, based on Bessingby Industrial Estate, has more than tripled its display space after taking over the unit next door, giving customers an even bigger and better experience when browsing the vast range of models on offer.
The family-run business is owned by father-and-son team Lee and Tom Johnstone, whose passion for model building has helped transform a small home-based venture into a destination attraction for enthusiasts from across the UK.
The expansion has been a major undertaking, with four solid days spent reorganising, building and cleaning to create the new showroom. The pair also spent three weeks constructing display cabinets to showcase their ever-growing collection.
Visitors are now greeted by more than 1,500 square feet of display space packed with hundreds of different models, ranging from vehicles and architecture to engineering marvels and fantasy creations.
Lee said: “What started as a small business in a spare bedroom during Covid has grown far beyond anything we imagined. Seeing the new showroom completed and filled with displays is incredibly rewarding.
“We have around 4,500 hours of building experience between us and we always try to meet the people who want to build the kits, offer advice and help them choose the right model. That personal touch is really important to us.”
Among the most eye-catching displays is a spectacular 14,000-piece model of the Palace of Westminster, commonly known as Big Ben, which is currently the largest model in the shop.
The showroom also features a remarkable 1:127 scale working model of the world’s largest land crane. The real-life machine stands an astonishing 234 metres high and is currently working on a project in Holland.
Tom said the displays help inspire customers and demonstrate what can be achieved with patience and creativity.
“We build the kits ourselves so we know exactly what customers are getting,” he said. “That means we can give genuine advice, answer questions and help people get the most enjoyment from the hobby.
“The new space gives us the opportunity to showcase many more models and create a much better viewing experience.”
The popularity of Building Block World continues to grow, with enthusiasts travelling significant distances to visit the Bridlington store.
Lee revealed that customers have travelled from as far away as Lossiemouth in northern Scotland, making an eight-hour journey specifically to visit the showroom. Others have even planned holidays in Bridlington around a trip to the shop.
“It’s amazing to hear stories like that,” said Lee. “People come from all over the country to see the displays and browse the range. We never expected that when we first started.”
The business specialises in high-quality Lego-compatible alternative sets, carefully selecting products that offer excellent build quality and easy-to-follow instructions.
Away from the showroom, Lee and Tom are regular visitors to car shows and events across Yorkshire, where they showcase models and meet fellow enthusiasts.
Asked about their favourite models, Lee chose a detailed Audi Quattro, a car that holds special memories.
“My favourite is the Audi Quattro,” he said. “I actually owned an Audi Quattro that had previously been owned by international cricketer Viv Richards. The model is around 3,500 pieces and it’s a real nostalgic piece of kit for me.”
Tom’s favourites include an impressive 1,100-piece astronaut model and a highly detailed Lotus V8 consisting of around 3,700 pieces.
Reflecting on the latest milestone, the father-and-son team thanked customers for helping turn their dream into a thriving business.
They said: “Thank you to each and every one of you who have supported us on our journey and we hope you enjoy the new layout as much as we did creating it.”
With hundreds of models on display, free and easy parking right outside the premises and a growing reputation nationwide, Building Block World continues to put Bridlington firmly on the map for building block enthusiasts.
