How Big Is a Capsule House?

A capsule house is intentionally small—engineered to maximize function while minimizing footprint. But “how big” it is depends on its purpose, origin, and design. Here’s a clear breakdown:

1. Japanese-Style Sleeping Pods (Smallest)

• Size: 2m x 1m x 1.2m (≈2 sqm / 20 sq ft)
• Use: Short-term rest in capsule hotels—just enough room for a bed, small shelf, and ventilation.
• Not for full-time living—purely for overnight stays.

2. Backyard or Urban Micro-Units (Most Common)

• Size: 2m x 2m to 4m x 5m (4–20 sqm / 40–215 sq ft)
• Features:
  • Sleeping area (often lofted)
  • Compact desk or fold-down table
  • Optional kitchenette or bathroom (in larger models)
• Used as: Home offices, guest rooms, student studios, or solo micro-homes.
• Popular in the Philippines, U.S., and Europe (e.g., Etong, Boxabl, Haven Pods).

3. Full-Time Tiny Capsule Homes (Larger Micro-Living)

• Size: 20–40 sqm (215–430 sq ft)
• Features:
  • Separate sleeping loft
  • Full bathroom with shower
  • Functional kitchen
  • Smart storage and multi-use furniture
• Meets minimum habitable space standards in many countries for permanent residency.

4. Modular or Expandable Designs

Some capsule homes use multiple pods connected side-by-side or stacked:

• Two 20 sqm units = 40 sqm (ideal for couples or small families)
• Companies like Volferda (Netherlands) or WELLCAMP (China) offer such configurations.

Key Dimensions to Know

FAQs

Q: Is a capsule house too small to live in comfortably?
A: Not if designed well! Smart layouts, vertical space, and multi-functional furniture make even 10–15 sqm livable for one person long-term.

Q: Can I add a bathroom inside?
A: Yes—in units 12 sqm and larger, a wet bath (toilet + shower combo) fits comfortably. Smaller pods often use outdoor or shared facilities.

Q: How does it compare to a tiny house on wheels?
A: Similar in size, but capsule homes often have boxier or rounded minimalist designs, factory-built panels, and focus more on urban or backyard use than mobility.