circular skylight illuminates cave-like meditation space by studio X4 in taipei

studio x4 unveils a cave-like meditation space in taiwan

Self-Revealing by Studio X4 is a meditation space designed as a retreat within the bustling city of Taipei, Taiwan. Located in a busy dwelling surrounded by the noise of main streets and expressways, the project transforms an ordinary apartment into a space of calm. A half-cave shape completes the layout with mirrored surfaces to form an immersive environment. This cave-like space is physically and mentally insulated from the external urban chaos. A light source from above mimics natural light filtering into a cave, creating a podium for the owner to mentor students while fostering focus and introspection. Through this project, Studio X4 creates a serene, introspective atmosphere that combines light, form, and sound to enhance the meditative process, offering physical and mental respite from the city’s noise.

all images by YHLAA, courtesy of Studio X4

self-revealing reflects duality between outer and inner world

Through the Self-Revealing project, Studio X4 explores the duality of human experience, symbolized by the half-incomplete contour. One half represents the outward behaviors and connections formed through social interactions, while the mirrored half reflects the inner consciousness, linking to the six senses and the internal reality of the mind.  The merging of these two halves creates a meditation path aimed at achieving the balance between the outer and inner worlds.

Sound is an integral element in the space, where the typical approach to reducing reverberation is intentionally reversed. The Taiwanese studio conducted an acoustic analysis to place the speaker’s podium at the focal point of the room’s echo, allowing the speaker’s voice to reach every corner of the space while also returning to their ears. 

Self-Revealing by Studio X4 is a meditation space

designed as a retreat within the bustling city of Taipei, Taiwan

located in a busy apartment surrounded by the noise of main streets and expressways

the project transforms an ordinary apartment into a space of calm

a half-cave shape merges the apartment layout with mirrored surfaces

a light source from above mimics natural light

through this project, Studio X4 achieves a serene, introspective atmosphere

offering physical and mental respite from the city’s noise

project info:

name: Self-Revealing
architect: Studio X4 | @studio.x4
location: Taipei, Taiwan
photographer: YHLAA | @nevermind1107

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom