A new seven-storey capsule hotel has broken ground just off St Andrew Square in Edinburgh, developed by TARKA Hotels in partnership with architect Studio LBA.
The project marks the UK debut of the Japanese-style capsule concept, which is being adapted to meet the needs of modern travellers who are looking for affordable, design-led accommodation.
TARKA Edinburgh is designed to offer a compact alternative to traditional hotel rooms, and it is set within a formerly vacant mixed-use building that previously housed a job centre, offices, and retail units near St Andrews Square.
The development will have 242 sleeping pods and a rooftop Japanese restaurant and bar with views over Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth.
Lynsay Bell, Managing Director of Studio LBA, said, “TARKA’s vision is to redefine hospitality with an innovative Japanese capsule offering, positioned in the heart of Edinburgh. This design-led project seeks to repurpose a redundant building, transforming it into an authentic and cutting-edge destination that not only invigorates the urban landscape but also creates employment opportunities.”
James Scott, founder of TARKA Hotels, added, “TARKA was born from our experiences staying in capsule hotels during visits to Japan – trips that sparked a real passion to bring this modern, affordable accommodation concept to the UK.
“We aim to redefine the traditional hostel by offering quiet, private pods that strike the perfect balance between the cost-efficiency of hostels and the comfort and design of modern hotels.”
Construction is now underway, with completion expected in summer 2026.
Picture Credit TARKA