MIDDLE KASHY’S SHELTERS
Spanning a broad variety of themes, Middle KASHY’s shelters demonstrate an evolving understanding of concept, technique and execution.
KASHY KATHEDRAL
In a dark cave, a lonely yet proud church waits for a new purpose. It’s twin “spires” sit atop a traditionally proportioned cathedral with flying buttresses and stained glass windows. The transept extends from either side of the main altar, the grand organ behind. Statuettes decorate stone columns alongside hard pews in an open, plain space. The preacher’s humble accommodation is in a separate room behind. On one side, an old cemetery remembers those who others have forgotten, and on the other side toward the back stairs lead to a crypt of sorts. Updated little since initial construction, this build showed me that I can execute a concept in a sincere and authentic way. Featured in the video CRAZY
Location: Forbidden Digsite Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate+
KOUTURE KASHY
An exhibition space has been set up to premiere a new fashion collection. The theme is of an Asian temple set in a jungle, with a bar and relaxation area for guests before they seat themselves for the show. Cameras are set up and the runway is elevated for all to see. The models have access to changing areas with a makeup bench and the, err, “supplements” they require to get through the show. The colour theme is green on red, and in the dark many other items can see casting their own glows. In this season’s preview, KOUTURE KASHY has eschewed the routine fashion show to create a complete fashion experience.
Location: Soundstage Shelter
Difficulty level: Moderate+
KASHY KAR KARE
Appalachia’s elite demand a premium service when it comes to all things, including how their car is cared for. They also expect that they and their offspring will be catered for while their luxury conveyance is in the hands of experts. With superior service facilities, a luxurious lounge and complementary bar (no blood-alcohol limits in Appalachia), and even a Kids Klub with a real klub just in case.
Location: Vault Lobby Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate
OPERA HOUSE / GROGNAK’S ARENA
To the left is a grand opera house in white, a stark contrast in every respect to the surrounding area. It has an elegant reception area, discreet catering, comfortable seating, an orchestra and a wonderful stage. Floors on both levels are wonderfully cared for, which on the mezzanine has a lined ceiling under. It is a destination for grand performers and elite clientele. Opposite is a structure for those from the other side of the street, set up for a barbaric cage fight to the death. It is dark and unfriendly, as are its occupants. Which is right for you?
Location: Forbidden Digsite Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate+
AUTO-MATED NIGHTCLUB
Love is not easy to come by, it seems. One solution is to mechanise the operation, for ideal auto-mating. The process is facilitated within a nightclub, with a colourful bar and seating areas, and dancing girls to start, then transitions to a room where humans are mostly transformed into robots, ready for “knowing” each other in special pods. The whole process is overseen by the mysterious manager, who in the video hides herself behind a feline form. A few years old now, the build, song and video combined to create a new level of integration that has set the bar ever since. Today the build remains almost exactly as it was. There just doesn’t seem to be a reason to change it.
Location: Server Room Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate+
FOGGY STREETSCENE
In an underground cellar, down a weirdly green glowing steamy access tunnel, a foggy Victorian-era London street scene may have been reproduced. A liquor store plies its wares, a gift store is set up for Christmas, a black-arts store is selling pretend-evil, a blacksmith’s allows visitors use of the equipment, a grocery store sells dry and refrigerated goods, with its own butchery on-site. A small shack seems to be the home of someone in a back corner, with a modern elevator-lobby in a small building opposite. Up front, a small police station provides cove to an entry to a brothel. Throughout, the fog unsuccessfully tries to hide the unique colour themes of each store, not that the source of any of that lighting can be seen, even for the most inquisitive of visitors.
Location: Root Cellar Shelter.
Difficulty level: Advanced
THE UNDERCITY
Inspired by Arcane, The Undercity is all about lighting and mood. Buildings of different styles and in various states are pushed up against one another. The street is full of vendors peddling food, drink, and services. The bar (TLD) is set up for a band, recreation and drinking, with some home-brewing happening out back, and an observation level looking down. Follow those stairs to the adjoining drug (Shimmer?) den, with its inviting decor and comfortable lounges. Don’t be surprised if you waken in a nearby room with the feeling you’ll never be clean again. In the street below there is a sporting goods store of sorts, an old house that appears to be mostly destroyed, and other buildings with doors that take visitors to other shelters. The Undercity is one of those builds that one feels they can take in at once, but then wonder what has been missed.
Location: Abandoned Mine Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate+
MAINTENANCE HANGAR
Upon entry, the vistors finds themselves in a room with a large roller door. They are greeted by a heroic statue, and upstairs can find what appears to be a war room. Through the window 2 spaceships can be seen within a hanger. Both are military in nature, one apparently a fighter, the other possibly a reconnaissance vehicle. Engines for both are on, creating orange flames and black smoke underneath the overhead catwalk. To the side are lunch room, bathroom and laundry facilities for the repair crew. A discreet ramp takes the visitor to a room where alien research seems to be occurring, hinting at the military operation not being human v human, for once (we are so stupid as a race, but anyhow). Finally, two conspirators are revealed in a back room, raising questions about what is really going on here.
Location: Missile Silo Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate
BASEMENT
This basement shelter was conceived as a fun way to have a very practical space. There are many shelter entries in the foyer, opening on to the main room that specialises in buffs. Through the doorway is a fully functional workshop, making preparation for any event convenient and quick. Beyond practicality, The Basement has some really nice design features, starting with the pink and green lighting theme that reflects so nicely off surfaces. The onsen is bubbly of course, with nice decorations and drinks nearby. Baby deathclaws chase prey on the floor as ticks descend the wall above the organ, itself adjacent to other musical instruments. This build was all abut the details, mostly for the fun of it, and there are too many to describe here. A visit is your best way of seeing it all.
Location: Vault Utility Room Shelter.
Difficulty level: Advanced
ADULT RELAXATION CENTRE
Visitors in need of … company… are initially greeted by a large stone snake, winding its way in serpentine style in and out of a blue pond, surrounded by rocks and grass. At the back they might notice an aquarium with various creatures and items happily floating behind its glass. Once they have given up on how that has been achieved, they are asked to visit the receptionist upstairs before selecting their preferred… penchant. Room 1 is for those who like furry friends, while room 2 is for those who prefer a hotter edge to their recreation. Room 3 is for more traditional clean fun, with room 4 at the back suitable for those who prefer a metallic element to their relief. A nice bar area is available if one has to wait, or perhaps even recharge if one’s appetite has not been completely sated.
Location: Vault Utility Room Shelter.
Difficulty level: Moderate+
