Aarjav Sharma

AR2057

The Dawn Below

Set beneath a lake in basalt-carved terrain, this project envisions a luxurious subterranean habitat for the Naags—a powerful, amphibious species. Though they do not need light to see, light is treated as a symbol of power and aspiration. Carefully carved nodes bring in sky and water light, celebrating their dual nature and status. The architecture uses darkness to frame light, creating dramatic, expressive spaces. Designed for a resource-rich syndicate, the habitat asserts the Naags’ ambition to rival their sky-dwelling foes, the Garuds, transforming an underground realm into one of pride, identity, and presence.  

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An innovative worldbuilding exercise inspired by the movie arrival aimed at redesigning through analysis that decodes world building, storytelling and cinematics.

An innovative worldbuilding exercise that redesigns through speculative narrative post decoding the existing plot and addressing the gaps in the narrative.

A visual narrative capturing the essence of the Naags, their anthropometric characteristics, their complex social engagements and material systems in use.

An in-depth examination of the Naags routines and rituals along with their natural environments.

Defining lexicon, Iterative studies delving into site-responsive designs in the Vishaar Range, refining spatial arrangements

Iterative sketches to tailor the entry of light, final line drawings

The primary rendered section brings the design to life, encapsulating the spatial and cultural ethos of the Naag dwelling.

The detail rendered section brings the design to life, encapsulating the spatial and cultural ethos of the community space engaging rituals such as Kadal puja.

A series of views showcasing the Naag habitat’s interiors and exteriors, offering a vivid sense of the spaces.

A physical manifestation of the speculated.