The building armature - chicken-wire mesh reinforcement and metal supports
The building armature - chicken-wire mesh reinforcement and metal supports

Computer-assisted planning facilities were used to resolve the structure's unorthodox design. A simple floor of wire mesh and mortar was used instead of a traditional foundation. All the structure's components are self-supporting, relieving stress by their ubiquitous continuity. Ferrocement, only one inch thick, was used for the undulating walls and domes in order to reduce load. The cave was constructed by unskilled tribal labourers using only hand tools. 

Mortar cladding on supports, with mesh-cover
Mortar cladding on supports, with mesh-cover
Interior view, with the ferroconcrete roof under construction
Interior view, with the ferroconcrete roof under construction
Exterior view, ribbed ferroconcrete roof and 'cannons of light', prior to laying of the china-mosaic cover
Exterior view, ribbed ferroconcrete roof and 'cannons of light', prior to laying of the china-mosaic cover

Broken ceramic crockery and waste tiles were used to cover the domes' exterior, which bears a transversal mosaic of a snake. Work was carried out in two phases: the first was the construction of the main cave as an underground art gallery, while the second covered the surrounding structures including the paving, the café, and a separate art gallery for exhibitions.