In a pioneering move, Singapore is set to unveil its first co-living train hotel, an innovative accommodation project by local startup Tiny Pod in collaboration with JTC Corporation.
The hotel, which repurposes a decommissioned SMRT train carriage, is scheduled to open in September 2024, at LaunchPad @ one-north, an area known for fostering new solutions.
The eight-room train hotel, currently under renovation since March 2024, will offer an immersive experience for guests, featuring attached bathrooms and LCD panels displaying the train's past journeys.
Situated at the car park next to Block 69 Ayer Rajah Crescent, the hotel will be complemented by a public green space, complete with food and beverage vending machines, bicycle racks, and repurposed train chairs as benches.
Tiny Pod has integrated a smart lock system from local startup Igloo Home to enhance the co-living experience.
This project builds on the success of Tiny Pod's pop-up shipping container hotel, which has expanded to various urban and public spaces since its 2020 launch at LaunchPad @ one-north.
Tiny Pod founder and CEO Seah Liang Chiang said, "In today's market, where consumers prioritise eco-conscious choices, pop-up hotels are swiftly emerging as a lucrative niche. Our endeavour taps into this trend and exemplifies a fusion of profitability and sustainability. By transforming underutilised spaces into unique accommodation experiences, we unlock new revenue streams and minimise our environmental footprint.
“This endeavour aligns seamlessly with evolving consumer preferences, where conscientious travellers seek authentic and eco-friendly alternatives. With the support of our partners JTC, LTA, MTI and STB, and the growing momentum of eco-conscious tourism, this project demonstrates our commitment to catalyse positive change within the industry while delivering memorable experiences for our guests."
JTC continues to support startups in LaunchPad, including MDesign's trial of a smart cooling shelter and Medistation's setup of a Wellness Pod, furthering innovation within one-north's collaborative ecosystem.
