Reflection of 20th-century techno-utopias to the present day: Capsule hotels

Abstract

Several factors, such as population growth, increasing land prices, and challenging economic conditions, have led to a change in hotel design. In response to these challenges, capsule hotels have emerged as a potential solution. These hotels are designed to be compact, cost-effective, and conveniently located near airports or train stations. Inspired by the 20th-century techno-utopias and first emerging in Japan during the 1970s, these capsule hotels have spread to many countries in the 21st-century. The aim of this study is to identify the common and distinctive features of capsule hotels in different countries. Three capsule hotel examples were selected, namely the Nine Hours Capsule Hotel in Osaka, the KINN Capsule Hotel in Singapore, and the Capsule Hotel-Sydney in Sydney. The study used a mixed qualitative research method, including conceptual analysis and case study, and the selected hotel examples were analyzed using the homogeneous sampling technique. The design of these hotels, characterized by economic efficiency and limited facilities, shows variations across different countries in terms of capsule dimensions, color schemes, materials, and furnishings. The findings reveal discrepancies in location, color schemes, material choices, and amenities; however, the size, configuration, and access orientations of the capsules remain consistent with the established capsule hotel concept as defined in the literature.