Some projects demand a little extra, especially when the subject is not only widely recognized but also deeply meaningful. When Second Story Collections approached Playwell Bricks to create a custom set of the BorgWarner Trophy, the official trophy of the Indianapolis 500, the task carried high stakes. Known worldwide and celebrated for its intricate details, the BorgWarner Trophy leaves no room for error.

The BorgWarner Trophy is a historical record of every Indy 500 winner since 1911. Each winning driver’s face is sculpted into the trophy in a checkerboard pattern, alongside their name, year, and average speed. Reproducing this level of detail in a set measuring only 5–7 inches tall was no small feat. The project required careful consideration of how to represent dozens of tiny portraits and preserve the trophy’s iconic presence in such a compact build.

Designer James May began by studying how best to replicate the checkerboard of winners’ faces. His solution was to use round tiles, which would allow each tile to represent an individual driver. To bring these to life, team member Kostik Poloskin developed custom face graphics that were then printed onto the tiles.

Beyond the trophy itself, the client requested a winner’s wreath to be added to the trophy, a detail that adds prestige and tradition to every Indy 500 celebration. True to racing tradition, the wreath included white flowers, chosen specifically because they don’t clash with the winning driver’s suit. This thoughtful addition gave the set both authenticity and charm.

The completed design incorporated 56 printed pieces and four decals per set, requiring fast and precise work from the production graphics team. Despite the complexity, the project crossed the finish line smoothly, staying on budget and ahead of deadline. The final product captured the essence of the BorgWarner Trophy while delivering a buildable, memorable keepsake tailored to Second Story Collections’ vision.

“I would highly recommend Playwell Bricks for anyone looking for a custom [brick] set. You guys were on budget, great design team, finished before the deadline, always responsive and innovative in approach for some minor changes throughout the process.”

— Steven Sanford, Second Story Collections

If your business is searching for a gift that represents your brand, product, or project, Playwell Bricks specializes in corporate production. Our team of designers work with your branding, ideas, and budget to help you build well, brand well, and gift well, with Playwell. Contact us to schedule your discovery call today!