During the brainstorming phase of this map, I knew I wanted to create a map based on a sci-fi urban environment, similar to how Split is based in Japan.

Before deciding on "Laboratory", I first chose the theme to be an "Abandoned Shopping Mall"

I knew this map would have the classic 1 Mid 2 sites layout with importance of Mid control.

I had trouble coming up with a "gimmick" for this map that wouldn't impact the main gunplay style of Valorant.

Elevator, Escalator, Mirrors, were all options at first.

Organized my thoughts onto Illustrator

The overall shape and layout starting coming along

Still missing the "gimmick" but the 3 lanes are showing

First blockout of the map

Got a lot closer to the original vision

Scrapped the theme because it seemed unreasonable

Decided to figure out "gimmick" and theme of map before moving forward

After blocking out I went back with more ideas and fixed up the 2nd draft of "Laboratory" with a clearer vision.

Theme of the map is an abandoned laboratory (possibly connected to Viper's lore) that was once a researching site meant to test the energy of Radianite. Now lies the remains of the laboratory, floors covered with toxic runoff, broken machinery, and remnants of the Radianite cores. 

The "gimmick" of this map is the toxic pools (inspired by the lava pools of Riot Games Ep 9 of Super Art Power Hour). It first starts as a empty pit that over time fills up to become a toxic pit. Once fallen in, the player would start sinking while taking continuous damage. But the player can escape by mashing "Spacebar" to jump back out of the pool.