Introduction

In the heart of a fortified stone city stands the bank of the noble houses, founded during an age of unrest, it was established by a secretive guild of master masons and scribes who swore oaths of silence, designing the vault with mechanisms known only to a select few. Over generations, the wealth of kingdoms; gold, jewels, ancient relics, and even sealed scrolls of forbidden knowledge, has passed through its strong vault door. Rumors whisper that the largest chambers hold treasures so large they could sway the fate of kingdoms. Local nobles trust the bank not out of comfort, but necessity, for no other place offers such impenetrable security, or so it is thought…

Key features:

Working and lockable vault door: Intricately designed, the vault door will only unlock when the wheel is rotated to the “unlock” position, allowing the door to swing open. Similarly the door can be locked in the reverse fashion
Vaults for the noble houses to store their treasures: Down in the stone foundations of the bank lie the vaults of the noble houses along with treasures belonging to the rest of the wealthy townsfolk
Breakable walls into the vaults: It seems the dastardly bandits have found a weak spot in the bank walls, keep a watch on your treasure!
Town noticeboard: A place for the townsfolk to post requests and other items, can you spot any easter eggs for other sets?...
Statue of the town founder: Standing proudly outside the bank is a statue of the founder of the town, a forgotten knight, however it does make a pleasant spot to relax!

Closing remarks

Having submitted castle-themed designs for Series 8, 9 and 10, with high praise from the community, I was keen to expand the “civilian” realm of sets that have gone before. Taking inspiration from a medieval bank in a loved 2015 video game (can you guess which?), this design and setting popped into my head and was keen to submit it for series 11.

Please comment your thoughts and feedback below, I would love to hear your ideas for improvement! Lastly best of luck to every designer entering a submission and I look forward to seeing the five finalist designs!