Introduction

At the edge of the known land, a small and impenetrable fortress stands atop a rocky outcrop above the sea. Those that garrison the stronghold are responsible for protecting the local coastal towns and navigating the unknown waters beyond the borders. However recent excavations of the caves below the front of the fortress have unearthed incredible finds from a bygone era; who was responsible for building these relics and what lost secrets can be uncovered from scrolls that have laid dormant underneath the fortress for countless centuries…?

Key features:

Octagonal towers: not commonly seen in designs but a dominant feature of the medieval landscape. These were also great fun to design, especially the back “sea” tower which is built into the rock ascending out of the sea and opens up
The model is designed to be modular and openable , allowing better access to the courtyard, interior of the sea tower and caves at the front and rear of the model
A working lifting arm drawbridge design, which came into fashion in 14th century Europe, again a feature not commonly featured and wanted to include something different!
Courtyard full of activity : including a blacksmith’s quarter, small stable, archery range, trap door to the mysterious caves below and somewhere to sit and ponder the events of the day with a view out across the sea… (watch out below!)
Full interior of the sea tower : featuring a cooking area with a table and seat, stairs built into the rock and office and sleeping area upstairs, ready to plot different navigation routes across the open sea. The tower and stronghold is protected by an intimidating ballista atop the tower
8 (and a half…) minifigures : 1 queen (a little nod to my girlfriend!) 3 knights, a chef, blacksmith, excavationist and the mysterious figures unearthed under the caves of the front tower!
An escape route below the sea tower, through a sneaky trapdoor in the floor the garrison can flee from capture of the stronghold and save the treasure they have amassed through their explorations
Mystery down below … look through the photos to find out more!

Dimensions

Width: 30.4cm / 12.0 inches

Length: 63.5cm / 25.0 inches

Height: 33.2cm / 13.1 inches

Piece count: 2,858

This is my first ever design (and first time using the studio software!) and I have enjoyed bringing this idea to life and including several building techniques, taking inspiration from a number of different sets. There’s certainly some room for finesse I would like to make if this idea progresses with some small alterations here and there. 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!