The Dig

The Dig is an immersive public interior project that merges spatial storytelling with well-being design, located in Lower East Side, Manhattan. Conceptually, it draws on the metaphor of “digging”—the idea of peeling back layers—both physically and mentally. As visitors descend from a vibrant street-level lobby to hushed subterranean chambers, they undertake a symbolic journey of self-discovery, paralleling the act of unearthing hidden aspects of the mind.

From the moment guests enter, they encounter a serene lobby where natural light, warm earth-toned surfaces, and organic textures evoke a gentle separation from urban bustle. This entrance serves as the “surface” in the overall design narrative. The focal point is a sculptural spiral staircase that spirals downward, illuminated by discreet linear accents suggesting the gradual excavation of deeper layers of introspection.

On the mid-level, meditative alcoves and flexible seminar rooms offer a transitional space between external routine and internal exploration. Every design choice—from acoustically considered walls to minimalistic furnishings—encourages tranquility and focus. The subdued color palette and carefully placed apertures for daylight create an environment where distraction is minimized, gently nudging visitors to look inward.

Descending further, intimate introspection pods await on the lowest floor, where low-level illumination, plush seating, and near-silent acoustics provide an environment conducive to deep reflection. Adjacent to these pods is a lush two-story indoor garden, made possible by advanced daylight-routing technology in partnership with the neighboring Lowline Park—the world’s first underground public green space. This living oasis symbolizes renewal and growth, offering visitors a conscious reemergence after their contemplative descent.

By forging a direct spatial link to Lowline Park, The Dig extends the idea of subterranean exploration into a shared civic realm, demonstrating that rejuvenation can flourish in unexpected places. The concept of “digging” underpins every detail: from the layered color transitions to the interplay of hidden light sources. The result is a sanctuary of discovery—a place where layered design elements invite each visitor to excavate deeper insights and reconnect with nature, even beneath the city streets.