Micro, not minimal

Compact living is not just a trend in metropolises like Singapore, it is a necessity. A local entrepreneur takes the idea to the extreme – by transforming an underground carriage into a hotel. Each room comes with its own Geberit bathroom.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of living simply and efficiently,” says Liang Chiang Seah. Inspired by the Netflix series “Tiny House Nation”, the entrepreneur begins to think about what one truly needs to live comfortably – particularly in Singapore, where space is scarce and expensive.

He starts experimenting with the concept of micro-living, buys a decommissioned shipping container and converts it into a tiny house. At some point, his thoughts turn to converting an underground carriage into a hotel. “The idea started out as a wild thought.” But the idea sticks with him. He then reaches out to Singapore’s Ministry of Transport – who give him a retired train carriage.

A real adventure

The 22-metre-long carriage is not designed for overnight stays, let alone for eight rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Additionally, there are strict building regulations and fire safety standards to comply with. But despite all the hurdles, the Train Pod Hotel opens in May 2025.

We want to make a statement: micro doesn’t mean minimal.

Each room measures 7.5 m square metres – including the bathroom – and is equipped with air conditioning, smart TV, high-speed internet and Geberit iCon wall-hung WCs. “Geberit is well known in Singapore from luxury hotels and stands for premium quality and smart design,” explains Liang Chiang Seah. “We want to show that micro doesn’t mean minimal.”