So, this approach requires one more layer of effort: converting the height map (or at least its visible tiles) into a "normal map" which is smooth and natural enough to be subjected to lighting effects and then displayed on screen.

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The below-street-level New York Transit Museum Store in downtown Brooklyn takes underground standards to a new level with antique subway token cufflinks, monogrammed mosaic tiles and subway map shower curtains.

BBC: One-of-a-kind holiday shopping in NYC