This first draft focuses entirely on the overall shape of Woodland Commons.
Do not build detailed structures yet.
The goal is to establish:
before any architectural detailing.
Recommended build area:
512 x 512 blocks
This is large enough to feel like a real settlement while remaining manageable.
Approximate regions:
Woodland Core
150 x 150
Stepwell District
100 x 100
Residential Village
250 x 250
Stream Corridor
Entire map
Commons Footprint
120 x 120 underground
Service District
100 x 100
The terrain should resemble a wooded river valley.
Imagine:
higher ground
↓
forest ridge
↓
stream valley
↓
forest ridge
Avoid flat terrain.
Create gentle elevation changes.
The stream should feel ancient and natural.
The symbolic center of the community.
Located near the middle of the map.
Features:
Shape:
rough circle
150 blocks diameter
This area should feel peaceful and slightly mysterious.
Players should naturally wander toward it.
The civic heart.
Located directly within the Woodland Core.
This is the first thing visitors remember.
Diameter:
60-80 blocks
Shape:
large circular excavation
Layers:
forest
↓
terraces
↓
gardens
↓
water basin
↓
glass commons entrances
The stream should pass through or beside the stepwell.
The stepwell should be visible from many points in the woodland.
The stream is one of the most important features.
The stream should:
Features:
The stream should organize the entire settlement.
Located around the Woodland Core.
Design goals:
Build:
Spacing:
20-40 blocks between homes
Residents should feel connected but not crowded.
Located at edge of map.
Features:
This area should be functional rather than beautiful.
Hide it with trees.
One complete loop.
Route should pass:
Use:
The loop should feel like a woodland trail.
Not a racetrack.
Do not excavate details yet.
Just reserve space.
Suggested footprint:
120 x 120
Directly beneath:
This becomes the hidden heart of the community.
Never reverse this order.
The landscape is the primary structure.