The Northern Illinois University (NIU) Foundation approached Playwell Bricks to create a meaningful, tactile way to engage alumni during their annual Huskies United Day of Giving. With deep roots in Huskie pride and a beloved landmark as inspiration, they wanted something that would spark emotional connection and participation. Something more lasting and interactive than typical promotional items.

The NIU Foundation was looking for a donor incentive that would go beyond branded merchandise, something that honored their institutional history and created a sense of nostalgia and pride. The foundation needed a reward that would be:

• Visually iconic and instantly recognizable to the NIU community
• Small enough to be practical for mailing and display
• Creative and memorable enough to motivate participation
• Aligned with their values and goals for donor engagement

The NIU Foundation had a clear vision: Altgeld Hall, the castle-like building affectionately known as “the castle on the hill,” should be brought to life in brick form.

Playwell Bricks worked closely with the NIU Foundation to design a custom microscale replica of Altgeld Hall. Designer Yvonna Strijbos led the project, using innovative building techniques to capture the spirit and architectural features of the historic structure within the constraints of a 121-piece build.

By treating brick elements not just as parts, but as creative shapes open to reinterpretation, the Playwell team transformed tiny cogs into turrets and angular pieces into archways. The result was a compact yet expressive model that retained the grandeur and identity of the original building.

This unique set was then integrated into the university’s Day of Giving campaign as a reward for donors who reached a specific giving tier, serving as both an expression of thanks and a symbol of alumni connection.

This custom Altgeld Hall brick set helped NIU:

• Strengthen emotional ties with alumni through a nostalgic, hands-on experience
• Provide a meaningful, non-generic donor reward
• Spark pride and conversation within the community
• Visually reinforce school identity in a tangible way

The Day of Giving campaign was a resounding success, with strong donor engagement and enthusiastic feedback about the set. It proved how a thoughtful, playful approach can deepen participation and turn a campaign into a memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a custom set that represents your group, product, or to celebrate a milestone, Playwell Bricks specializes in corporate production. Our designers work with your budget and branding to help you build your dreams. Contact us and book your discovery call today!