KINN

In the heart of neon Chinatown, at the end of Singapore’s South Bridge, KINN is a new 10,000 square foot capsule hotel for sophisticated guests seeking calm respite away from the city life hustle. KINN is inspired by the concept of hyper futurism with a humanistic touch, drawing upon cyber dystopian movies like Gattaca and Blade Runner, with design intentions for the arrival of neo future while addressing the ethereal lifestyle of our present time. We approached by replacing the futuristic gloss with classical textures—textured wood and matte surfaces instead of gloss, marble stone flooring instead of reflection. We kept to minimal colours of gentle earthy hues, and decided on a geranium infused with lavender scent throughout the entire hotel, psychologically proven to be calming, relaxing and re-energising to the visual and olfactory senses. A 30 foot olive tree takes centerstage at the void of original air-well with natural light permeating from the roof skylight, bringing the outdoors, indoors. The space encompasses an atmosphere of warmth and comfort where the community is free to engage and immerse amongst themselves.



All the pods were designed with a year of research; staying in countless capsule hotels, gathering data from user testing and experimenting through prototyping. The pods are duo stacked with a spacious internal space of 4 x 6ft, equipped with a larger than usual customised single mattresses, a flip down table with vanity mirror, charging plugs and blinds for privacy. There are no protruding components in the pods, with only single-finger pulls for opening compartments. Then we began to define other variables like temperature, tactility, proportions, scent, the list goes on. For example, we found that under wraps, a temperature of 21°C is ideal. We ensured proper ventilation and air flow by providing well-placed vents. All the rooms have windows bringing in natural light and ventilation throughout the day. To control noise, we installed double panels for the walls and used noise-controlling roller blinds. And most importantly, we made shaped the entrance of the pods with strong inviting curves, to welcome the guests for their much needed rest.