A decommissioned MRT train carriage has found new purpose as a boutique co-living hotel at JTC’s LaunchPad in one-north. Train Pod @ one-north offers urban explorers, train enthusiasts and professionals Singapore’s first accommodation experience within a train carriage.
This new concept adds to LaunchPad's collection of innovation testbeds, where startups collaborate and pilot new solutions. Through LaunchPad's ecosystem, Train Pod's creator Tiny Pod worked with local startups including Igloohome for smart lock systems, Ailytics for AI-powered crowd counting and crisis detection, and Vouch for self check-in and GenAI chatbots, to enhance the co-living experience.
The original train interior has been conserved, and real-life footage of the train’s earlier journeys immerses guests in their hotel’s unique history. Each of the eight self-contained rooms balance space efficiency with essential comforts. The project reflects Tiny Pod's focus on transforming existing structures into functional spaces, with sustainability as a key consideration.
Train Pod @ one-north will be a new amenity node for the LaunchPad community. A 24/7 food and beverage vending machine café and outdoor dining area, complete with original MRT train seats and bicycle racks, create a new gathering point. More details of Train Pod’s amenities and its refurbishment journey are in Annex A.
Train Pod @ one-north was officially launched by Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State (SMS), Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of Community, Culture and Youth. “The First Mover Framework (FMF) has effectively supported innovative, ground-up business ideas like Train Pod @ one-north. Train Pod @ one-north exemplifies how thinking differently about using decommissioned assets can create extraordinary and sustainable possibilities. The launch of this project reflects how Singapore's pro-enterprise environment and drive for innovation facilitate the growth of businesses while supported by pro-business regulations. I encourage businesses with fresh ideas to come forward and explore their proposals with the Government”, said SMS Low.
“JTC’s LaunchPad has given startups like ours the space to test bold ideas. With Train Pod @ one-north, we're showing how unused urban assets can be transformed into unique hospitality experiences, while promoting sustainable development,” said Mr Seah Liang Chiang, Founder of Tiny Pod Pte Ltd.
“Train Pod @ one-north is a progression from Tiny Pod’s shipping container hotel testbed at one-north. More than just a space to test new concepts, LaunchPad can also facilitate growth and product development. Startups like Tiny Pod can tap on the LaunchPad ecosystem to collaborate and experiment with other like-minded players to turn vision into reality,” said Ms Yap Eai-Sy, JTC’s Director for New Estates Business Development and Marketing Division.
Train Pod @ one-north will open for bookings in the second half of 2025. Visit https://www.tinypod.com/train-pod for information and updates.
