-Nate
The Wroshyr Tree
The very center of
most settlements on Kashyyyk are the massive wroshyr trees, a
towering form of local plant life that rises hundreds of meters up
from ground level, creating living space for the Wookiees on their
higher branches and leaving much of what lies beneath in darkness.
Indeed, Wookiee architectural style is such that it works with the
features of the tree, rather than replacing the existing natural
elements. For example, landing pads for airspeeders and starships are
built onto relatively flat branches, especially where boughs come
together to create broad, open areas. Similarly, typical Wookiee
domiciles fit into niches, with support structure added as needed,
but removing as little as possible. For example, the map above
depicts part of one such tree, with a single landing platform and
three houses. Note that the circle in the center of the tree
represents the average circumference of its central trunk, although
this is never quite so regular in shape as would seem to be
indicated.
A typical Wookiee
dwelling is surrounded by a covered walkway, allowing the inhabitants
to enter or exit from various directions (A). There is often a common
room (B), where members of the family or friends can relax and enjoy
each other's company. In the center of the structure a spiral
staircase (C) provides access to the upper level. A utility room (D)
could feature storage space, work tables and the home's refresher
units. Meals are taken in the dining room (E), and prepared in the
kitchen (F), which boasts dry and cold storage areas. Bedrooms are
located on the upper level (G).
What most
beings—and especially the Imperials—don't know is that the
Wookiees have managed to dig tunnels through the living limbs of
certain wroshyr trees, thus creating hiding places for materials as
well as routes for secret travel. Many of these are accessible via
the spiral staircases of Wookiee homes; they have secret viewports
for looking outside, along with broad passages that permit travelers
to move equipment and supplies freely.
