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Other Atlas

Inns

Inns

ELEMENT │ PLACE

Inns are locations where travelers may sleep for the night. Fictional inns, particularly in fantasy worlds, are often important locations along a journey, acting as locations where characters can rest, obtain food, and often encounter mystery or exciting new adventure. Inns are found in towns, cities, and along roads, trade routes, and at crossroads. They vary in tone from cozy, to eerie, to haunted. They are home to innkeepers, servants, and mysterious travelers.

Synonyms: roadhouses, public houses
Example Mythonyms: the Prancing Dragon, the Inn and Tea
QUICK ELEMENTS │ CLICK TO EXPLORE
Food & Drink
Fireplaces
Corner Tables
Crawlspaces
Hidden Rooms
Dumbwaiters

Designing Fictional Inns

The design of fictional inns often reflects the broader cultural, historical, and aesthetic context in which they are created. These establishments can range from humble taverns to luxurious grand hotels, each with its own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall atmosphere and narrative. The most commonly used inn architype is that of the medieval-inspired inn, which often features a half-timbered architecture.

Fictional inns often feature a larger central gathering area. This setting may contain a desk or accommodations for the innkeeper as well as seating areas for guests. Often fictional inns also serve as taverns and this central area may be a place where alcoholic beverages can be purchased and consumed. The space often features fireplaces and mounted trophies.

Inns will always have rooms for rent.

Older inns may have extensive crawlspaces and peepholes. They may also contain hidden rooms.

Why would the rooms of your inn be at full capacity and who is using them?

A Primer

  • Getting Started
  • World Archetypes
  • Regions & Biomes
  • Places
  • Factions
  • Fictional Histories
  • Worldbuilding Terminology

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