Gupshup - گپ شپ
Year: 2022
Role: Developer, 3D Modeler
Technologies: Unity, Maya, Substance, Photoshop
Exhibitions: Bungalow Collective ~ Brooklyn, NYC
Gupshup welcomes you to a VR Kashmiri drawing room, where five tea cups, each tied to a personal story, reveal the meaning of Gupshup amidst Islamic architecture and scenic countryside views.
Ongoing regional conflict in Kashmir exacerbates poverty and limits resources, leading to the rapid deterioration of historic mansions and the decline of traditional architectural design is a dying art.
The Problem
This project creates a 3D VR environment to replicate endangered Kashmiri mansions, using research and photos to preserve their unique architectural heritage and raise awareness of the challenges they face to survive for the next generation.
Project Goal
Challenges vs Solutions
Originally designed for a SparkAR filter, the 4MB limitation compromised both quality and experience
Opted for VR experience for a fully immersive environment without compromising quality and creating a more detailed environment
Storytelling through UI Panels obstructed the 3D view
Pivoted to creating an interactive storyline that utilizes a narrated storyline to allow the user to feel involved within the room
Massive File Size
Compressed tile and carpet mesh into normal maps to reduce file size and increase VR performance/rendering quality
Aggressive Flickering and Motion Sickness
Baked Lighting, manipulating render passes, Reducing Mesh Size, Anti-Aliasing Effect URP/Post-Processing
Geometric Wooden Lattice Work
Pinjrakari
Wooden Interlocked Ceiling
Khatamband
Moon Sighting Balcony
Zoon Dub
EXCLAIMER: Before you play, my old laptop GPU burned out suddenly, heartbreaking, please give some grace on the cancellation button in the middle.
Use Arrow keys to move around the room and mouse to rotate.