Toys from the woods

Around 1920, tuberculosis was a leading cause of death, prompting the construction of sanatoriums across the Netherlands. These institutions offered patients rest in the ‘healthy’ open air, believed to support their recovery. One such place was Berg en Bosch—literally “Hills and Woods.”
As part of their rehabilitation, patients crafted wooden toys to prepare for re-entry into society. The toys were branded “ado,” short for arbeid door onvolwaardigen—which translates loosely as “labour by the partially able.” In that historical context, the term described not a personal failing, but a temporary limitation to fully participate in society.

Ko Verzuu for ado toys

the form should simply and clearly give the essence of things. Around this, the child can then fantasize to its heart’s content.

Ko Verzuu

Ado toys were far from ordinary. Designer Ko Verzuu envisioned toys that were both innovative and ethical. His creations reflected the spirit of the times: sleek lines in doll furniture, bold primary colours in building blocks, and toy cars inspired by the latest developments in aerodynamics. With minimal detail, Verzuu encouraged imaginative play, while the use of non-toxic lacquer ensured the toys were safe, making ado not just innovative, but also responsible. Unsurprisingly, this cutting-edge product found its way to the renowned Amsterdam department store Metz & Co.

A huge project

Ado toys deserve the spotlight. That’s why this website is home to the ado toy catalog: an ongoing effort to document the hundreds of models once created in the workshop. A task once deemed impossible is now within reach—thanks to the internet, and a growing community of enthusiasts helping to bring it all together.