Construction is underway on a unique hotel in Tampere's city centre, where steel-structured modules are being installed into a protected building in the historic Finlayson factory area.
These modules, small enough to be called "micro-rooms," are designed to provide ready-to-go compact accommodation.
The process is precise, with forklift operators carefully manoeuvring the modules through window frames of the protected historic building.
The new Uumen hotel is scheduled to open in May, with an expedited construction timeline made possible by the modular design.
Inspired by Japanese capsule hotels
Eetu Rahkola, the entrepreneur behind Uumen Hotels, refers to the accommodations as "micro-rooms," each featuring a door, a small standing area, with an integrated bed and storage space. Bathrooms and washing facilities will be shared.
Rahkola drew inspiration from Japan's capsule hotels but aimed for a slightly more spacious design. Each micro-room measures approximately five square metres, meeting stringent fire safety and soundproofing standards.
Affordable and eco-friendly accommodation
The modular approach was chosen for its speed, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. The hotel's compact design allows it to address Tampere's chronic shortage of accommodation, particularly during large events.
The hotel aims to appeal to budget-conscious travellers and those seeking a minimalist, no-frills stay in the heart of Tampere.
"Our goal is to be the most affordable hotel in the city," said Rahkola.
"By reducing room size, we don't have to compromise on quality."
The cost for a single room will start at 39 euros per night, with dynamic pricing that may rise to around 100 euros during peak weekends.
