A company is facing criticism after offering ‘sleeping pods’ for rent in San Francisco, with 300 individuals already interested in the final 17 pods available.
Opinions on Reddit are mixed regarding the company’s decision to charge $700 monthly for these bunkbed-like pods.
The company, Brownstone Shared Housing, states its goal is to provide ‘low-cost housing in the most expensive cities’ with its pods measuring 3.5-by-4-by-6.5 feet.
The pods are designed to hold a twin mattress and come equipped with privacy curtains, charging ports, and lighting inside.
Nevertheless, the San Francisco Chronicle noted that the sleeping pod company, situated in downtown San Francisco, was cited by the department of building inspection for breaching city regulations.
The Guardian reports that the CEO, James Stallworth, mentioned that thirteen people were residing in the building during the code-enforcement process.
Although the facility’s planning department application had been approved, it was later revoked due to Stallworth’s misrepresentation.
Dan Sider, the planning department’s chief of staff, remarked to the outlet: “The building remains in violation of the planning and building codes, and while we continue to work with the proprietor to move his applications forward, we expect him to honor his agreement not to have new tenants move in until the issue is resolved, which should happen very soon.
“We’re trying to bring him across the finish line.”
The company’s mission has sparked mixed reactions online, with some accusing it of being ‘tech bros’ who are reinventing pre-existing concepts.
One user expressed: “Imagine the smell. $700 a month is ridiculous.”
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Another user stated: “Jfc, I thought my barracks was bad with 50 people. At least we had more than 1 shower and 4 toilets. This thing is truly a nightmare fuel.”
Someone pointed out: “Tech bros reinventing tenement housing and calling it innovation.”
Another added: “This is a Hostel. They reinvented hostels.”
Critics also mentioned that they’ve seen ‘jails with better accommodation’.
On the other hand, some noted that a hostel pod in Japan would cost more, suggesting it could be a good deal for San Francisco.
Others claimed it’s suitable for commuters or those needing short-term stays.
One shared their experience: “I recently stayed at a similar one in Vancouver, paid like 90.
“All I needed was a few hours of sleep and I was out early morning, worked well enough for me…but it’s def not something I’d want for anything more than a few short days when I’m not even there most of the day.”
This setup may be affordable for those who truly need it.
“Since it is affordable housing, we have to use the city of San Francisco’s process to fill some of the spots, but the rest are going to be filled through our online application process,” Stallworth stated.
He announced plans to open a second, larger location in San Francisco with approximately 100 pods, expected ‘early next year’.
Additionally, they offer pods in Palo Alto, close to Stanford University, for $800 a month.
This fee covers utilities, rent, internet, shared bathrooms, storage, and a communal kitchen.
While it may not be suitable for everyone, it could be ideal for some individuals.